The DOVE Surgical Technique is a labiaplasty method developed by Dr Georgina Konrat in 2005 and published in peer-reviewed medical literature in 2012. DOVE stands for Double Offset V-Plasty with Extended De-epithelialisation. The technique was developed to address limitations observed in other labiaplasty methods — particularly the risk of wound dehiscence (wound opening) and the preservation of sensation.
This page provides factual information about the DOVE Surgical Technique, who developed it, how it differs from other labiaplasty methods, and what patients should know before considering the procedure.
Who developed the DOVE Surgical Technique?
Dr Georgina Konrat (MBBS, FACCSM) developed the DOVE Surgical Technique in 2005. She is a female cosmetic doctor practising since 1997, a University of Sydney alumna, and a Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine (FACCSM). AHPRA Registration: MED0001407863.
Dr Konrat published peer-reviewed research describing the DOVE Surgical Technique in 2012. The technique continues to be performed exclusively by Dr Konrat at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic and her Sydney practice.
What DOVE stands for
DOVE is an acronym that describes the key elements of the technique:
- D — Double: The surgical approach uses two offsets for precise tissue management
- O — Offset: Offset incisions allow for layered wound closure
- V — V-Plasty: The V-plasty pattern is used to remove excess labial tissue
- E — Extended De-epithelialisation: The technique extends to include the clitoral hood and folds between the labia where appropriate, without full-thickness tissue removal
How the DOVE Surgical Technique differs from other labiaplasty methods
There are three main surgical approaches to labiaplasty in contemporary practice:
Trim method (longitudinal resection)
The most commonly performed labiaplasty technique worldwide. Excess labial tissue is trimmed along the edge of the labia minora. Documented considerations include scarring along the visible labial edge, removal of the naturally pigmented labial border, and inability to address concerns about the clitoral hood.
Wedge method
A V-shaped wedge of tissue is removed from the central portion of each labia, and the edges are sutured together. Preserves the natural labial edge. Documented considerations include the risk of wound dehiscence due to full-thickness incisions through delicate tissue.
DOVE Surgical Technique
The DOVE technique uses superficial dissection rather than full-thickness tissue removal. Key features described in Dr Konrat’s 2012 publication:
- Superficial dissection preserves the subcutaneous nerves, blood vessels, and mucous membranes
- The wound is closed in two separate layers, adding structural strength to the repair
- The technique can be extended to address excess clitoral hood skin and folds between the labia without additional incisions
- Sutures are selected to balance strength and protection of sensation in each area
Further information about labiaplasty techniques is available on our comparison of labiaplasty techniques.
Who performs the DOVE Surgical Technique?
The DOVE Surgical Technique is performed exclusively by Dr Georgina Konrat at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic (Brisbane, Queensland) and her Sydney practice. The technique is Dr Konrat’s own development and is not currently offered by other practitioners in Australia.
Who may be a suitable candidate
Suitability for the DOVE Surgical Technique is assessed during consultation. Factors considered include:
- Individual labial anatomy and the specific concerns being addressed
- General health and suitability for surgery
- Medical history, including any conditions that affect wound healing
- Smoking status (smoking significantly impairs wound healing)
- Realistic expectations about the outcome
Not every patient presenting for labiaplasty consultation will be a candidate for the DOVE technique. Dr Konrat discusses the most appropriate approach for each individual during consultation.
AHPRA requirements before surgery
Labiaplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure regulated by AHPRA. Before surgery can be booked, patients must:
- Obtain a GP referral
- Attend two pre-operative consultations (one may be conducted via telehealth)
- Observe a minimum seven-day cooling-off period after the second consultation
- Complete any requested pre-operative assessments (blood tests)
- Receive written information about the procedure, risks, recovery and alternatives
- Provide informed consent
These requirements exist to ensure patients have adequate time and information before proceeding with surgery.
The procedure
The DOVE Surgical Technique is typically performed under local anaesthetic with sedation in a day-surgery setting. Because of the layered closure and careful tissue preservation, the DOVE technique takes longer to perform than the trim or wedge method.
Recovery expectations
Individual recovery varies. General expectations include:
- Discomfort for the first 24–48 hours, managed with prescribed pain relief
- Return to sedentary activities within 3–5 days
- Antibiotics prescribed to reduce the risk of infection
- Sexual activity avoided for 4–5 weeks
- Tampon use avoided for 6 weeks
- Sutures removed at approximately the 2-week mark
Specific aftercare instructions are provided following consultation.
Risks and potential complications
All surgical procedures carry risks. Potential complications of labiaplasty using any technique may include:
- Delayed wound healing
- Infection
- Bleeding or haematoma
- Wound dehiscence
- Asymmetry
- Scarring (including hypertrophic or keloid)
- Changes in sensation
- Dissatisfaction with aesthetic outcome
- Anaesthesia-related risks
Specific risks are discussed in detail during consultation. See our general risks of cosmetic surgery page for further information.
Published research
Dr Konrat’s research on the DOVE Surgical Technique was published in peer-reviewed literature in 2012. The technique is referenced in international cosmetic surgery literature. Patients interested in reviewing the published research can request further information during consultation.
Further information
For further information about the DOVE Surgical Technique or to book a consultation, please visit our labiaplasty information page or contact Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic on 07 3391 5710 or info@brisbanecosmetic.com.au.
Frequently asked questions
Who developed the DOVE Surgical Technique?
The DOVE Surgical Technique was developed by Dr Georgina Konrat (MBBS, FACCSM) in 2005. She published peer-reviewed research describing the technique in 2012. Dr Konrat is a University of Sydney alumna and Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine. AHPRA Registration: MED0001407863.
What does DOVE stand for?
DOVE stands for Double Offset V-Plasty with Extended De-epithelialisation. The acronym reflects the key elements of the technique: two offset V-plasty incisions combined with extended de-epithelialisation that allows the technique to address the clitoral hood and folds between the labia without full-thickness tissue removal.
Who performs the DOVE Surgical Technique?
The DOVE Surgical Technique is performed exclusively by Dr Georgina Konrat at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic and her Sydney practice. The technique is Dr Konrat’s own development and is not currently offered by other practitioners in Australia.
How is the DOVE technique different from the trim or wedge methods?
The DOVE technique uses superficial dissection rather than full-thickness tissue removal. This preserves the subcutaneous nerves, blood vessels, and mucous membranes. The wound is closed in two separate layers, providing structural strength to the repair. Unlike the trim method, DOVE can address clitoral hood skin; unlike the wedge method, it avoids full-thickness incisions that can risk wound dehiscence.
Is there published research on the DOVE Surgical Technique?
Yes. Dr Konrat published peer-reviewed research describing the DOVE Surgical Technique in 2012. The technique is referenced in international cosmetic surgery literature. Patients can request further information about the published research during consultation.
How long does the DOVE procedure take?
Because of the layered closure and careful tissue preservation, the DOVE Surgical Technique takes longer to perform than the trim or wedge method. The exact duration depends on the individual case and scope of the procedure. Dr Konrat discusses expected procedure time during consultation.
Content reviewed by Dr Georgina Konrat MBBS FACCSM. AHPRA Registration: MED0001407863. This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Last reviewed: 17 April 2026.