Genital surgery
Genital surgery encompasses operations in the genital area, which may be considered in cases of dissatisfaction with one’s own anatomy or in the event of functional problems.
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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.
Surgery in the genital area is one of the most personal and sensitive decisions a person can make. Dissatisfaction with one’s own anatomy, functional problems or the desire for an appearance perceived as „normal“ often lead to significant psychological distress. Yet the subject is shrouded in shame and characterised by misinformation. What does the term ‘intimate surgery’ really mean? What procedures are available, and – most importantly – what are the actual benefits and risks?
This guide serves as a reliable, discreet and respectful source of information. We provide objective information on the various procedures available to women and men, highlight the key psychological aspects and emphasise the crucial role that choosing the right doctor plays in ensuring your safety.
Definition: What is intimate surgery?
Genital surgery, also known as genital surgery, is an umbrella term for surgical procedures aimed at the aesthetic or functional correction of the external genital area in women and men.
The range of procedures extends from labia reduction in women to penile lengthening in men. Many of these operations result in permanent changes and require particularly careful consideration and thorough explanation.
Function or aesthetics? The crucial question of ‘why’
Before considering any genital surgery, it is essential to take an honest look at your own motivations.
Functional indication:
Is there a genuine medical reason? Examples include pain caused by overly large inner labia during sport or cycling, or phimosis in men. In such cases, surgery can significantly alleviate the distress caused.
Cosmetic indication:
Does the desire stem from personal dissatisfaction with one’s appearance? This is the most common motivation. In such cases, it is essential to critically examine one’s own expectations. These are often shaped by unrealistic, pornographic depictions that bear no relation to the anatomical diversity found in reality.
Psychological counselling as an important step
A reputable surgeon will always discuss the psychological motivations at length. Often, psychological counselling or sex therapy beforehand can help you to better understand your own wishes and reach a well-considered, self-determined decision. Surgery should never be the solution to low self-esteem.
Female genital surgery: The most common procedures for women
- Labia reduction (labiaplasty): This is the most common type of intimate surgery performed on women. It aims to reduce the size of the inner (small) labia when these protrude significantly beyond the outer (large) labia and are perceived as causing aesthetic or functional discomfort.
- Clitoral hood reduction: Often carried out in conjunction with labiaplasty, this procedure reduces the excess skin over the clitoris. The main aim is to achieve a more harmonious appearance; changes in sexual sensation vary greatly from person to person and can have both positive and negative effects.
- Pubic mound correction: Excessive protrusion of the mons pubis (mound of Venus) caused by fat deposits can be reduced and tightened by means of a minor liposuction procedure.
Male genital surgery: The most common procedures for men
- Penis enlargement: This procedure does not involve lengthening any tissue; rather, the „internal“ part of the penis, which lies within the body, is brought outwards. This is achieved by severing the anterior suspensory ligament at the pubic bone. The only change is an extension of the limp The penis is a few centimetres shorter; its length when erect remains unchanged.
- Penis thickening: To increase girth, the patient’s own body fat or, less commonly, hyaluronic acid is usually injected under the skin of the penile shaft.
The right doctor: the crucial choice for your safety
In no other surgical procedure is the choice of surgeon as crucial as it is in genital surgery. The aim is to preserve function and sensation.
For women:
Are you looking for a specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery OR a specialist in Gynaecology with a proven track record of many years’ surgical experience in genital surgery.
For men:
Are you looking for a specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery OR a specialist in Urology, who has a proven track record of specialising in these procedures.
During your consultation, ask specifically about the number of procedures carried out and ask to be shown anonymised before-and-after photos.
Risks & Complications: An honest explanation
The following complications and risks may arise during genital surgery:
- General surgical risks: Infections, impaired wound healing, bleeding, unsightly scarring.
- Risks specific to women: Permanent or partial Loss of sexual sensitivity (particularly in the area of the clitoris), chronic pain, asymmetry, excessive removal of the labia („over-resection“).
- Risks specific to men: Erectile dysfunction, instability of the erect penis, nodule formation and inconsistent results in terms of thickening, scarring, and infections.
In view of these serious and potentially life-altering complications, financial protection is essential. A policy taken out before the procedure Consequential Costs Insurance protects you from the high costs of medically necessary corrective procedures that are not covered by health insurance schemes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Intimate Surgery
The procedure itself is carried out under local anaesthetic, twilight sedation or general anaesthesia and is painless. In the days following the procedure, patients usually experience pain, a feeling of tightness and significant swelling, the severity of which can vary greatly from patient to patient.
You should expect to be restricted in your work and personal life for at least 1–2 weeks; if you do physically demanding work or engage in a lot of physical activity, a longer period of rest may be advisable. As a general rule, you should avoid intensive sport, sexual intercourse, cycling and visits to the sauna for 3–6 weeks. However, the exact advice will always depend on how the healing process progresses and the assessment of the treating doctor.
Only in very rare cases where there is clear evidence of a severe functional impairment. Procedures carried out purely for aesthetic reasons must always be paid for by the patient.
The costs vary considerably. Labiaplasty usually costs between €2,000 and €4,000. Penis lengthening can cost between €4,000 and €8,000.
Yes, giving birth is usually possible without any problems. The procedure does not affect the function of the birth canal.
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