It’s very common for women considering labiaplasty to wonder, “Will it hurt?”
This question often comes with feelings of vulnerability, embarrassment, or anxiety. These emotions are normal, and understanding what to expect can make the process feel less overwhelming.
This article provides informational guidance about what women commonly report, including experiences under local anaesthetic and general anaesthetic, while supporting informed and safe decision-making.
Understanding Pain and Sensitivity
Pain perception differs from woman to woman. Some are naturally more sensitive, while others tolerate procedures with minimal discomfort. Because of this, experiences vary widely.
Most women describe:
- The procedure as manageable, especially once the area is adequately numb
- The postoperative phase as involving mild to moderate discomfort, usually improving within a few days
Is Labiaplasty Painful Under Local Anaesthetic?
Local anaesthetic is commonly used and works by numbing the labial tissue so pain signals are blocked.
Women often report:
- A brief sting during the numbing injections
- Pressure, movement, or tugging sensations but not sharp pain once numb
- The option to request more anaesthetic if any discomfort occurs
- Reassurance from being awake and able to communicate throughout
Labiaplasty Under General Anaesthetic
Some women prefer or require general anaesthetic (GA). Under GA, you are asleep and unaware of the procedure.
- GA may be considered for women who:
- Experience significant anxiety about being awake
- Have needle phobia
- Have had traumatic or complex past experiences
- Need a more extensive or combined vaginal surgery, such as vaginal prolapse surgery, anterior and posterior vaginal repair surgery, and clitoral hood reduction procedures.
- Prefer the comfort of being fully asleep
A qualified anaesthetist administers the general anaesthetic, and risks and recovery expectations are discussed beforehand so an informed decision can be made.
Pain After Labiaplasty
Postoperative discomfort is similar whether the procedure is done under local or general anaesthetic, as healing, not the anaesthetic, determines the after-effects.
Common experiences include:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Tenderness when sitting, walking, or moving
- Steady improvement within several days
- Full healing over several weeks
Simple measures such as rest, cool packs, supportive underwear, and appropriate pain relief as directed by Dr Li, are often helpful.
The Emotional Experience Matters
Labiaplasty is a deeply personal decision. Many women describe feelings of embarrassment or worry beforehand. A trauma-informed, patient-centred approach helps by prioritising:
- Privacy and dignity
- Clear explanations
- Regular check-ins for comfort
- Time for questions
- A calm, respectful environment
- Feeling safe and supported makes a meaningful difference to the overall experience.
If you’re asking “Is labiaplasty painful?”, you are not alone. Most women find that the procedure under local anaesthetic is tolerable once numb, while others choose general anaesthetic for additional comfort. There is no single “right” option, only the one that feels appropriate for you.
For more information about the procedure, please visit our Labiaplasty page. You can also view labiaplasty before-and-after images on that page
If you would like more information about labiaplasty or to book a consultation in Brisbane or the Gold Coast, please contact our clinic at 07 3219 6868. We welcome you to book a face-to-face appointment with Dr Sharon Li, as every patient’s needs are different.
You will receive a detailed, personalised quote following your consultation, based on your specific treatment plan.
All gynaecological treatments come with potential risks and complications. We recommend seeking a second opinion from a qualified health practitioner before proceeding. The photos and videos on our website and social media are shared with patient consent. Individual outcomes, including risks and recovery times, vary based on factors such as genetics, health, and lifestyle. As a result, these images do not guarantee similar results for everyone. The information on our page is general and should not be taken as medical advice. For more specific guidance, please contact us directly.