DOVE labiaplasty is labiaplasty performed using the DOVE Surgery Technique, a method developed by Brisbane cosmetic doctor Dr Georgina Konrat in 2005 and documented in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal in 2012. The technique is performed exclusively by Dr Konrat, and for Brisbane patients it is available at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic in Annerley. This page explains what makes the DOVE approach different, who it suits, and what to expect if you are considering it.
What DOVE stands for
DOVE is an acronym for Double Offset V-plasty with Extended de-epithelialisation. In plain terms, that describes three things about how the procedure is performed:
- Double offset: two offset incision lines allow the wound to be closed in two separate layers, which adds structural strength to the repair.
- V-plasty: a V-shaped pattern is used to remove excess labial tissue.
- Extended de-epithelialisation: the dissection is superficial rather than full thickness, and it can extend to the clitoral hood and the folds between the labia where appropriate, without additional incisions.
The superficial dissection is the central idea. By not cutting through the full thickness of the labial tissue, the approach preserves the subcutaneous nerves, blood vessels and mucous membranes that sit beneath the surface.
How DOVE compares with trim and wedge labiaplasty
Most labiaplasty performed worldwide uses one of two approaches. The trim method removes excess tissue along the edge of the labia minora. It is the most common technique, and its documented considerations include scarring along the visible labial edge and removal of the naturally pigmented border. The wedge method removes a V-shaped section from the central portion of each labium and joins the edges, which preserves the natural border but involves full-thickness incisions through delicate tissue, with a documented risk of the wound reopening.
The DOVE Surgery Technique was developed in response to those limitations. Its two-layer closure is designed to reduce the risk of wound separation, and its superficial dissection is designed to protect sensation. Because of the layered closure and careful tissue work, the procedure takes longer to perform than a trim or wedge labiaplasty. A full explanation of the method’s development sits on the DOVE Surgery Technique page.
Who developed it
Dr Georgina Konrat (MBBS, FACCSM) is a cosmetic doctor who has been practising medicine since 1997. She is a University of Sydney alumna and a Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine, registered with AHPRA (registration number MED0001407863). She is not a plastic surgeon and does not use the protected title. She developed the DOVE Surgery Technique in 2005, documented it in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal in 2012, and presented it at the Cosmetex conference in 2014. The technique is not currently offered by other practitioners in Australia.
Is DOVE labiaplasty right for you?
Not every patient considering labiaplasty is a candidate for the DOVE approach. Suitability is assessed at consultation and depends on your individual anatomy, the specific concerns you want addressed, your general health and medical history, and factors that affect wound healing, including smoking. Dr Konrat discusses the most appropriate approach for each person individually, which in some cases may not be surgery at all.
What the process looks like in Brisbane
Labiaplasty is a regulated cosmetic surgical procedure in Australia, and the same national safeguards apply at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic:
- A referral from your regular GP
- Two pre-operative consultations with Dr Konrat (one may be conducted via telehealth)
- A minimum seven-day cooling-off period after the second consultation
- Written information about the procedure, risks, recovery and alternatives
- Patients must be 18 or older
The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthetic with sedation in a day-surgery setting. Most women return to sedentary activities within three to five days, with sutures removed at about the two-week mark. The labiaplasty recovery page covers the healing timeline in detail, and the labiaplasty cost page explains fees. For a broader overview of labiaplasty in Brisbane, including Medicare and consultation details, see the labiaplasty Brisbane page.
Frequently asked questions
Is the DOVE Surgery Technique available anywhere else?
No. The technique is Dr Konrat’s own development and is performed exclusively by her, in Brisbane and at her Sydney practice.
Was the DOVE Surgery Technique published?
Dr Konrat documented the technique in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal in 2012 and presented it at the Cosmetex conference in 2014. Patients who want to review the published material can request further information during consultation.
Why does the DOVE procedure take longer than trim or wedge labiaplasty?
The two-layer closure and superficial dissection involve more detailed tissue work than a single-layer edge trim or wedge excision. The additional time is a design feature of the method, not a complication.
Does DOVE labiaplasty carry risks?
Yes. All surgical procedures carry risks, including bleeding, infection, scarring and wound healing problems, regardless of technique. Specific risks and how they apply to you are discussed in detail during consultation.
How do I find out if I am a candidate?
Book a consultation at the Annerley clinic or phone 07 3391 5710. A GP referral is required before cosmetic surgery can proceed.
Reviewed by Dr Georgina Konrat (MBBS, FACCSM, AHPRA registration MED0001407863), July 2026.
All surgery carries risks. This page provides general information only and is not medical advice. Whether labiaplasty is appropriate for you can only be determined in consultation. Before proceeding with any surgical procedure, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.