Genital surgery
Genital surgery, also known as intimate surgery, encompasses procedures from the fields of plastic surgery, gynaecology and urology, addressing both functional and aesthetic concerns.
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Important note
This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis or advice. If you are unsure, or if you require a personalised treatment plan, it is essential that you consult a qualified specialist.
The Genital surgery, often also referred to as Genital surgery encompasses various surgical procedures from specialities such as plastic and cosmetic surgery, gynaecology and urology. The reasons for undergoing such a procedure are highly personal and can range from functional complaints to a desire for aesthetic harmony.
This article provides a clear, respectful and unbiased overview of the field of genital surgery and outlines the most common procedures for women and men.
What is genital surgery?
Definition and meaning
Genital surgery is an umbrella term for surgical procedures aimed at correcting, reconstructing or aesthetically altering the external genitalia. It is an interdisciplinary field practised by specialist doctors in plastic and aesthetic surgery, gynaecology and urology. The procedures may be performed for functional reasons or for purely aesthetic purposes.
The scope of genital surgery
The procedures naturally vary according to gender. However, the aim is always to achieve a result that preserves or improves function and meets the patient’s aesthetic expectations.
Common procedures in female genital surgery
Demand for female intimate surgery has risen in recent years. The most common procedures are:
Labia reduction (Labia reduction):
One of the most common procedures. This involves surgically reducing the size of enlarged inner labia that cause functional (e.g. pain during exercise) or aesthetic problems.
Labia augmentation:
This usually affects the outer labia, which have lost volume due to ageing or weight loss. The area is generally augmented using the patient’s own fat or hyaluronic acid.
Clitoral hood reduction:
This is often carried out in conjunction with labia reduction surgery to correct excess skin over the clitoris and create a harmonious overall appearance.
Common procedures in male genital surgery
There are also various surgical options available to men for correcting or altering their genitals:
Penis enlargement (surgical lengthening):
In this procedure, the „internal“ part of the corpus cavernosum – which is hidden inside the body – is brought outwards by severing a suspensory ligament at the base of the penis, resulting in an increase in length when flaccid.
Penis thickening:
Penile shaft augmentation is predominantly carried out using the patient’s own fat; the use of hyaluronic acid fillers is considerably less common and is viewed with greater caution due to potential risks.
Circumcision:
The removal of the foreskin, which is carried out for medical reasons (e.g. in the case of phimosis) as well as for religious or aesthetic reasons.
The crucial role of choosing a specialist
Specialisation and experience
Genital surgery requires not only excellent surgical skill, but also a thorough understanding of the complex anatomy and sensitive nerve structures. Choosing the right surgeon is the absolutely crucial factor in achieving a safe and satisfactory outcome.
Qualification: You should only consult a specialist in plastic and aesthetic surgery, a specialist in gynaecology or a specialist in urology who can demonstrate a proven specialisation and extensive experience in intimate surgery.
Risks associated with genital surgery and the importance of insurance cover
Genital surgery involves specific risks:
- General risks such as post-operative bleeding, swelling, impaired wound healing and infections.
- Specific risks such as asymmetry, unsatisfactory aesthetic results, scarring problems and, in particular, impaired sensation and sexual function.
The costs of treating such complications or of any necessary revision surgery are only covered by health insurance in rare cases where there are clear medical grounds. A Consequential Costs Insurance is designed to protect you from the financial burden of medically necessary treatment following a cosmetic procedure. Find out more now about insurance cover for your operation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Genital Surgery
Costs are rarely covered, and eligibility is only assessed in cases where a severe functional impairment has been clearly demonstrated. Examples include extreme pain caused by enlarged labia or medically necessary circumcision. Procedures carried out purely for aesthetic reasons are always at the patient’s own expense.
The primary aim of any reputable genital surgery is to fully preserve function and sensation. With modern, nerve-sparing techniques and when performed by an experienced specialist, the risk of permanent impairment is rare, but theoretically possible, and must be discussed during the pre-operative consultation.
This depends very much on the procedure. As a general rule, you will need to take it easy physically for 1–2 weeks. You should generally avoid sport, sexual intercourse, sauna visits and cycling for several weeks – usually 4 to 6 weeks – depending on how the healing progresses.