Best Genital Surgeons in Turkey

What is genital aesthetics?

Genital aesthetics covers cosmetic or functional operations on the vulva and vagina in women, and on the penis and surrounding structures in men. In women, the most common procedure is reduction of the inner lips (labia minora), known medically as labiaplasty. Vaginal tightening (vaginoplasty), reduction of the skin fold over the clitoris and procedures on the outer lips also belong to this group. In men, procedures aimed at the appearance of the penis are included.

The shape, size and colour of genital structures vary widely between people. Most of this variation is normal. Genital aesthetics is requested by some people to relieve physical discomfort when dressing, exercising or during sex, and by others for appearance alone. The doctor's first task is to understand where the concern comes from and to discuss non-surgical options too.

How is genital aesthetic surgery done?

Genital aesthetic surgery works by removing excess tissue, tightening tissue or adding volume, depending on the structure treated. In labiaplasty, the extra part of the inner lips is removed along the edge or as a wedge, and the wound is closed with dissolvable stitches. In vaginoplasty, the muscle and connective tissue of the vaginal wall are tightened and excess lining is removed. This is often combined with repair of the perineum, the area between the vagina and anus.

1. Symptoms, genital structures and the pelvic floor are assessed.
2. A cervical screening or infection tests may be requested.
3. The planned change, non-surgical options and risks are discussed.
4. The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, sedation or general anaesthesia.
5. A dressing is applied, and care and hygiene rules are explained.

Labiaplasty alone usually takes under one to two hours. Combining several procedures takes longer.

Who is genital aesthetics suitable for, and who should avoid it?

Genital aesthetic surgery is considered for adults whose genital development is complete, whose concern has been confirmed on examination and whose expectations are realistic. Genital structures keep changing during adolescence, so these operations are generally not advised at that age unless there is a medical need. The doctor decides suitability after an examination. The following require a delay or further assessment:

• Pregnancy or the early period after childbirth
• Active genital infection
• Unexplained abnormal bleeding or an abnormal cervical screening result
• Pelvic floor problems such as urinary leakage or organ prolapse
• Strong distress about appearance or signs of body dysmorphic disorder
• A decision driven by pressure from a partner or others

People with urinary leakage or prolapse are first assessed by a gynaecologist. Pelvic floor exercises and physiotherapy may be the first option for some.

How long is recovery after genital aesthetic surgery?

Most people return to desk work within a few days to a week. Swelling, tenderness and light bleeding are normal in the first days. Loose clothing and keeping the area clean and dry are advised. Dissolvable stitches usually fall out on their own within a few weeks.

Sex, tampon use, swimming and activities that press on the area, such as cycling, are usually postponed for several weeks. Your doctor sets this timing at a follow-up visit. Swelling can take a few months to settle fully.

Are the results of genital aesthetics permanent?

Tissue removed in labiaplasty does not grow back. After vaginoplasty, later childbirth and ageing can affect the tissues again. If you plan a vaginal birth in the future, discuss this with your doctor.

What are the risks of genital aesthetics?

The risks include bleeding, infection, wound separation, changes in sensation and pain during sex. The main risks are:

• Bleeding or a collection of blood
• Infection
• Separation of wound edges
• Too much tissue removed, or asymmetry
• Increased or reduced sensitivity
• Pain during sex (dyspareunia)
• Visible or thickened scarring
• Need for revision surgery

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) states that data on the safety and effectiveness of female genital cosmetic procedures done without medical need are limited. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning in 2018 against using energy-based devices such as lasers and radiofrequency for vaginal rejuvenation. The warning noted reports of burns, scarring and painful sex.

What affects the cost of genital aesthetics?

The cost depends on the type and extent of the procedure. Price ranges are shown in a separate section of this page. The main factors are:

• A single procedure or a combination
• Type of anaesthesia
• Whether surgery is done in a hospital or an outpatient unit
• Pre-operative tests and follow-up visits
• Revision of an earlier procedure
• The city where the facility is located

What should you look for when choosing a doctor for genital aesthetics?

Choose a doctor from a specialty with thorough knowledge of genital anatomy. In women, these procedures are performed by gynaecologists. Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeons also perform them. In men, procedures on the penis are performed by urologists and plastic surgeons. You can compare doctors who perform these procedures in the doctor listings. At the consultation you can check:

• The doctor's specialty and experience with this procedure
• Whether your concern was assessed with an examination
• Whether non-surgical options were explained
• A clear explanation of possible effects on sensation and sexual function
• The licensed healthcare facility where surgery will take place
• How your personal health data will be protected

What is the difference between vaginal, clitoral and penile aesthetics?

Vaginal, clitoral and penile aesthetics are different operations on different structures. In everyday language, vaginal aesthetics is used to cover both labiaplasty and vaginal tightening. Clitoral aesthetics usually means reducing the skin fold over the clitoris (clitoral hood), not changing the clitoris itself. It is often done together with labiaplasty. Because of the dense nerve supply of the clitoris, the risk of sensation change needs a separate discussion.

Penile aesthetics includes girth enhancement, increasing visible length, removal of pubic fat and correction of appearance after circumcision. In men of normal size, evidence for the effectiveness of lengthening and girth operations is limited. Complications such as curvature, shortening, nodules, loss of sensation and erection problems have been reported.