Posterior Wedge Resection: A More Aesthetic Labiaplasty

Background: Hypertrophy of the labia minora is of concern to a subset of adolescents and adult women. The posterior wedge resection is a new labiaplasty technique with an anatomic approach to yield the optimal aesthetic outcome and yet continue the functional achievement of prior techniques. Objective: The authors describe the results of their posterior wedge resection technique in a retrospective series of patients. Methods: A retrospective chart review was performed of 22 consecutive patients who underwent posterior wedge resection labiaplasty between February 2009 and February 2012. Complications and aesthetic outcomes were reviewed. Results: The average age of the patients in this study was 35 years (median, 33 years). Follow-up ranged from 2 weeks to 1.5 years. Two minor complications occurred without further sequelae. At follow-up, none of the patients reported any paresthesias, pain, or problems with penetrating vaginal intercourse. Conclusions: An increasing number of labiaplasties are being performed for aesthetic and functional concerns. The posterior wedge resection enables the surgeon to perform labiaplasty easily, safely, and effectively, ensuring symmetry and maintenance of the natural pigment, color, and texture of the defining free edge of the labia minora.