Since 1998 · Zagreb & Daruvar
Labiaplasty in Croatia
Labiaplasty is considered when the labia minora cause chafing, discomfort during sports, difficult hygiene, or pain from tissue being pulled in. An examination assesses whether the symptoms really come from the structure of the labia minora and whether the procedure can ease them.
The reasons for considering labiaplasty can be functional, aesthetic, or a combination of both. Before any decision, symptoms caused by friction and tissue being pulled in need to be distinguished from skin conditions, irritation, and dissatisfaction with appearance that is not linked to any anatomical abnormality.
Is this for me?
What labiaplasty is and when it is considered
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that reduces and reshapes the labia minora. It is considered when the tissue causes functional symptoms, or when the patient — after an informed conversation about normal anatomical variety and the limits of the procedure — wants an aesthetic change. In our price list the procedure is listed as labia minora reduction, which is the same procedure under its clinical name.
The reasons women come to us generally fall into two groups, and they very often overlap. It is important to tell them apart, because that determines whether the procedure will actually solve what brought you here.
When the symptoms are functional
Enlarged or markedly asymmetrical labia minora can be pulled inward during intercourse, causing pain and small injuries to the mucosa. They can also rub constantly against underwear, especially during menstruation, leading to irritation and recurring inflammation. Some women describe discomfort when cycling, running, or sitting for longer periods, and with a pronounced excess of tissue, everyday hygiene becomes harder as well.
If the examination establishes that the symptoms arise from tissue being pulled in, rubbed, or injured, labiaplasty can be one of the options for treating them.
When the reason is appearance
When the reason is aesthetic, it is important to explain that the size, color, shape, and asymmetry of the labia minora have a very wide natural range. Images in the media and online often fail to show that variety. Normal anatomical findings do not cancel out dissatisfaction with appearance, but they do call for a particularly careful conversation about motivation, expectations, and the possible risks of surgery.
Honest about anatomy
Why there is no “normal” labia size
The natural range in the appearance of the labia minora is very wide, and it is an important part of the conversation before any aesthetic procedure.
There is no standard definition of enlarged labia minora. In measurements across large groups of women, the length of the labia minora ranges from a few millimeters to several centimeters, and the width, color, and shape vary just as much. Labia minora that extend beyond the edge of the labia majora are very common and are not, in themselves, an abnormality. Asymmetry is usual, and perfectly matching sides barely exist at all.
Anatomy also changes through life. The labia can grow during puberty, change after childbirth, and lose part of their volume with age and hormonal changes. All of this is a normal course of events, not a disease.
A realistic assessment
When labiaplasty may not be the right solution
Labiaplasty is not the right solution for every symptom or every dissatisfaction with appearance. Before a decision, the cause of the symptoms, the expectations, and the existence of more suitable treatment options need to be assessed.
When there is no medical indication. If there are no functional symptoms and no condition that requires treatment, labiaplasty is not medically indicated. Any decision is then purely aesthetic and requires an understanding of normal anatomical variety, the risks, and the limits of the result.
When the pain is not linked to tissue being pulled in or rubbed. Pain in the vulvar area can have various causes and is not, in itself, an indication for labiaplasty. If no clear connection to the structure of the labia minora is established, further workup is needed, because surgery may not ease the pain and can put additional strain on sensitive tissue.
When the symptoms come from the skin, not from the size. Itching, stinging, and sensitivity often arise from skin conditions of this area or from irritation caused by harsh soaps and gels. Such conditions may require a change in care, a gynecological or dermatological workup, and appropriate treatment — rather than surgical reduction of the labia.
When a guaranteed improvement in one’s sex life is expected. Labiaplasty does not guarantee greater sexual pleasure or better sexual function. It can help if pain arises from tissue being mechanically pulled in or injured, but the sexual experience depends on many factors that this procedure does not change.
When the decision is not freely made. The decision about the procedure should be voluntary and informed. If there is pressure from a partner, family, or anyone else, it is important to discuss this with the physician before deciding on surgery.
When development is not yet complete. As a rule, the procedure is postponed until development is complete and adulthood is reached. In underage patients it is considered only in specially justified medical circumstances, with additional assessment.
The examination can end with a recommendation for the procedure, with another form of treatment, or with the conclusion that surgery is not medically indicated. The decision is made after the expected benefits, limitations, possible risks, and alternatives have been explained.
Why us
Why choose us for your labiaplasty
A family polyclinic since 1998
the Polyclinic has been run by the Maletić family since its founding, with more than 27 years of work in aesthetic surgery
Varied anatomy is not an abnormality
the size, shape, color, and asymmetry of the labia minora vary considerably between women and are not, in themselves, an indication for surgery
Confidentiality of medical data
the consultation and documentation are handled in accordance with the rules of medical confidentiality and personal data protection
A named surgeon
the procedure is performed by Duško Maletić, MD, MSc, a specialist in surgery and urology
Clear limits of the procedure
the procedure can ease symptoms linked to tissue being pulled in and to friction, but it does not guarantee greater sexual pleasure
How we work
What labiaplasty at Polyclinic Maletić looks like
An examination before any decision
The first step is an examination of the external genitalia and a conversation about your specific symptoms, motivation, and expectations. The anatomical findings are assessed, along with any signs of irritation or conditions that require a different workup. After that, we discuss whether labiaplasty can achieve the change you expect.
Technique and course of the procedure
The procedure is most often performed under local anesthesia and takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. The excess tissue is removed with the chosen surgical technique, and the choice of instrument and type of incision depends on the findings and the surgeon’s assessment.
The planned portion of tissue is removed while preserving a sufficient amount of the labia minora and their function. The extent of the procedure is determined by the surgeon based on the anatomical findings, the symptoms, and the safety of the tissue — and complete symmetry cannot be guaranteed. The wound is closed with dissolvable sutures that do not need to be removed; they break down gradually during healing.
After the procedure, the patient goes home with written instructions on hygiene, wound care, activity restrictions, and the signs that call for contacting the physician. A follow-up appointment is scheduled according to the recovery plan.
- Duration
- 30–60 minutes
- Anesthesia
- local
- Recovery
- around 10 days of more pronounced discomfort; return to sports and sexual activity after healing, as assessed by your physician
- Performed by
- Duško Maletić, MD, MSc
Recovery
Recovery after labiaplasty
- The first few days — swelling, sensitivity, and stinging are usually at their most pronounced, and sitting and urinating can be uncomfortable. Avoiding friction and wearing comfortable, breathable underwear is recommended.
- Up to about ten days — the discomfort and swelling gradually subside. A return to desk work depends on the course of recovery and the type of work.
- While the sutures dissolve — itching can appear. If it is accompanied by stronger pain, an unpleasant odor, discharge, bleeding, or a fever, contact your physician.
- Until healing is complete — sports, cycling, swimming pools, saunas, sexual intercourse, and masturbation are avoided. The return to these activities depends on healing and the physician’s assessment.
- Over the following few months — the remaining swelling gradually subsides, so the final appearance and any need for a correction are assessed only after the tissue has stabilized.
Realistic expectations
What labiaplasty changes — and what it does not
The procedure can reduce the amount of tissue that gets pulled in, rubs, or makes hygiene harder, and it can ease pain if the pain arises precisely from those mechanical problems. How you experience your own body after the procedure is individual and cannot be predicted in advance.
If the symptoms really were caused by friction or tissue being pulled in, discomfort when wearing tight clothing, during sports, on longer walks, or during intercourse can lessen after healing. The extent of the change differs from patient to patient.
The procedure does not guarantee greater sexual pleasure or better sexual function. Complete symmetry cannot be guaranteed either, because anatomical differences between the two sides exist naturally and healing is never entirely even.
When planning the procedure, it is important to preserve a sufficient amount of tissue. Removing too much can lead to permanent functional and aesthetic consequences that are difficult to correct.
Open about the risks
Possible risks and complications
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure and carries possible risks and complications that the patient should be informed about before making a decision.
- bleeding and infection, as with any operation
- partial separation of the wound edge, which — depending on its extent — can heal conservatively or require additional treatment
- a scar that can be sensitive, especially if put under strain too early
- a temporary or longer-lasting change in sensation in the operated area
- pain during intercourse, which can persist even when the procedure was performed correctly
- asymmetry or the removal of too much tissue, which is difficult to correct
- the need for an additional procedure due to healing, scarring, asymmetry, or a result that deviates from the plan
Smoking increases the risk of impaired healing, infection, and problems with the wound edges, so this information needs to be taken into account when planning the procedure.
Who we are
Who will be taking care of you
At Polyclinic Maletić, labiaplasty is performed by Duško Maletić, MD, MSc, a specialist in surgery and urology and co-founder of the Polyclinic. Both specializations matter when assessing the anatomical, aesthetic, and functional aspects of the procedure.
The Polyclinic was founded in 1998 in Daruvar and is run by the Maletić family. Throughout the examination, the procedure, and the recovery, the patient is accompanied by the Polyclinic’s medical team.
The consultation and your medical documentation are confidential and are handled in accordance with the rules of medical confidentiality and personal data protection.
Meet the whole team
Price
The price of labiaplasty in Croatia
The price of the procedure is listed in our price list, where it appears under the name labia minora reduction. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia as standard. If the patient chooses general anesthesia, the surcharge is €500.00.
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Labia minora reduction
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. If the patient chooses general anesthesia, the surcharge is €500.00.
See the full price listIf an additional or combined procedure is being considered, its name, extent, and price need to be confirmed separately before scheduling an appointment.
A complete overview of prices is available in our price list. You can arrange an examination through the contact page or by phone, in Zagreb or Daruvar. The examination assesses the cause of the symptoms, the medical indication, and whether the procedure can achieve the change you expect.
Related procedures in the same area are labia majora reduction and mons pubis reduction. You can browse all the procedures of this pillar on the aesthetic surgery page.
Patient reviews
What our patients say
Reviews taken from our Google Business profiles, Zagreb and Daruvar, translated from Croatian.
★★★★★
“Since high school I watched the double chin I inherited from my father become more and more pronounced — and 15 years later, the double chin is gone. A big thank you to Dr. Maletić and the whole team for making my wish come true. The procedure was painless, as was the recovery, and the results were visible within just a few days. The entire team was exceptionally kind and cheerful, and the atmosphere very pleasant. I left the polyclinic satisfied, and when, two days after the swelling went down, I saw that the double chin was gone, my satisfaction knew no bounds. I warmly recommend Polyclinic Maletić.”
★★★★★
“My experience with breast augmentation with Dr. Maletić in Daruvar was excellent. I am extremely satisfied with the result. All the nurses are very kind and professional. I absolutely recommend them.”
★★★★★
“All praise for Polyclinic Maletić in Daruvar! I had lip augmentation with fillers and I am very satisfied with the result. I would especially like to praise Dr. Mario Bartol, who is exceptionally kind and professional and has a wonderful approach to patients, which made me feel comfortable and safe throughout the treatment. All the nurses are also very kind, accommodating, and professional. I warmly recommend them to anyone considering aesthetic treatments!”
★★★★★
“Laser acne treatment is the only treatment that helped me, and I would not choose any other facial treatment over it. Dr. Ines is one of the kindest people I have ever met and always has useful advice. Kind staff and a top-level service — I warmly recommend her to everyone!”
★★★★★
“I had a wart on my face removed by laser. A very professional service with excellent results. The wart was quite large, but after just one treatment it was gone. All recommendations!”
★★★★★
“I recently had a varicose vein procedure. All praise to the whole team.”
★★★★★
“Blepharoplasty, 4D laser, and double chin. Perfect. All recommendations!”
★★★★★
“Greetings from Makarska! I have no words that would not, of course, be superlatives for all of you. From the welcome itself, and with all my fear before the operation, the nurses guided me so nicely through everything I had to go through before the procedure — and I must emphasize, with a huge smile on their faces. Since I had barely slept for several days beforehand from excitement and a certain inner restlessness, it is incredible how much humor all the nurses, and the doctor herself, used to "carry me off elsewhere with conversation" just so I would not stay focused on the operation. A big thank you to everyone, and I was especially touched by the nurse who kept me entertained during the procedure and, with her humor, nearly moved me to tears. I send my greetings to the whole team and the doctor of Polyclinic Maletić in Daruvar. All the best to everyone!”
★★★★★
“My experience at Polyclinic Maletić in Daruvar was extremely positive. From the very beginning I was impressed by the professionalism and kindness of the entire staff. The doctors took the time to inform me in detail about all the procedures, which gave me a sense of security and trust. The whole team was exceptionally professional and attentive, and the result exceeded all my expectations. I would certainly recommend Polyclinic Maletić to anyone looking for quality, personalized healthcare.”
★★★★★
“I came to Dr. Maletić with a big problem and a lot of stress. I was met with such warm empathy and kindness, and with patience in answering all my questions. Thank you, Dr. Maletić, for your advice and sincere support. I know I can always turn to her for advice, and that means a lot to me. The staff of the Zagreb polyclinic are also very accommodating and kind. Thanks to them as well.”
Questions and answers
Frequently asked questions
How do I know whether my labia are too large?
There is no measurement that would determine that. The size, shape, color, and asymmetry of the labia minora differ from woman to woman, and the range found in population studies is very wide — from a few millimeters to several centimeters. That is why the examination does not measure deviation from some ideal, but looks at whether your labia cause difficulties in your everyday life.
Does labiaplasty hurt?
The procedure is performed under anesthesia so that no pain is felt during the operation. After the procedure, sensitivity, swelling, stinging, and pain of varying intensity are possible, and painkillers are taken as instructed by your physician. Itching may also appear while the sutures dissolve.
How long is the recovery after labiaplasty?
More pronounced discomfort, swelling, and sensitivity can last approximately ten days, but recovery is not the same for everyone. A return to desk work is often possible earlier, while friction, sports, and other activities that put strain on the operated area are avoided until healing is complete. The final appearance is assessed once the swelling subsides, which can take several months.
When can I return to sports and sexual activity?
Sports, cycling, swimming pools, saunas, and anything that mechanically irritates the region are postponed until the wound has healed. Sexual intercourse and masturbation are allowed only once the wounds have fully healed and the sutures have dissolved; the exact moment is determined by the physician at a follow-up visit, because healing is not equally fast in everyone.
Are the sutures removed, and does a scar remain?
The wound is closed with dissolvable sutures that do not need to be removed — they break down gradually. Every surgical incision leaves a scar, but in this area, after normal healing, it is often less noticeable. The appearance of the scar depends on the technique, the healing, and an individual tendency to scar formation.
Will I have greater pleasure during intercourse after labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty does not guarantee greater sexual pleasure or better sexual function. It can ease pain if the pain arises from excess tissue being pulled in, stretched, or injured during intercourse. The psychological experience of the result is individual and cannot be predicted in advance.
At what age can labiaplasty be performed?
As a rule, labiaplasty is not recommended before development is complete and adulthood is reached. In underage patients it is considered only for pronounced congenital changes or persistent functional symptoms, with a particularly careful medical, developmental, and ethical assessment. The age requirements for the procedure need to be confirmed directly with the Polyclinic.