This article summarises the key changes that affect patients directly. For the complete official guidelines, patients should refer to the AHPRA website.

Why the guidelines changed

The 2023 update followed an independent review commissioned jointly by AHPRA and the Medical Board of Australia. The review examined several areas of concern in the Australian cosmetic surgery industry, including advertising practices, inconsistent safety standards, unclear practitioner qualifications, and patient outcomes.

The updated guidelines aim to strengthen patient safety, improve transparency around practitioner qualifications, and ensure patients have adequate time and information before making decisions about cosmetic surgery.

The GP referral requirement

One of the most significant changes for patients is the mandatory GP referral requirement. Since 1 July 2023, patients considering cosmetic surgery in Australia must obtain a referral from a general practitioner before attending a cosmetic surgery consultation.

The GP referral:

• Involves an initial medical discussion about the patient’s reasons for considering cosmetic surgery
• Allows the GP to identify any relevant health factors or medical conditions
• Can include a discussion about the patient’s expectations and mental health
• Is required before any cosmetic surgical procedure can be scheduled

Patients should discuss their interest in cosmetic surgery with their usual GP. If the patient does not have a regular GP, they can arrange an appointment with any general practitioner.

Two consultations and the cooling-off period

Under the updated guidelines, patients must attend a minimum of two pre-operative consultations with the cosmetic practitioner before surgery can be booked. One of these may be conducted via telehealth.

After the second consultation, a minimum seven-day cooling-off period applies before the surgery can be scheduled. During this period, patients are expected to:

• Review the written information provided about the procedure
• Consider the risks, recovery requirements, and realistic expected outcomes
• Reflect on their motivations and readiness for surgery
• Raise any questions or concerns with the practitioner

The cooling-off period exists to give patients time and space to make a fully considered decision, free from any sense of pressure.

Advertising restrictions

The updated guidelines significantly tightened restrictions on cosmetic surgery advertising. Practitioners advertising cosmetic procedures in Australia must:

• Not use misleading or promotional language about outcomes
• Not use superlatives such as “best”, “leading”, “top”, or similar
• Not use the title “surgeon” unless the practitioner holds specialist registration as a surgeon (which requires completion of a recognised surgical training program)
• Not use patient testimonials in ways that suggest guaranteed outcomes
• Not use before-and-after images in ways that mislead patients about realistic results
• Not make claims that cosmetic surgery will improve self-esteem, confidence, or emotional wellbeing
• Provide clear information about risks and cooling-off requirements

These restrictions apply to websites, social media, print advertising, and any other marketing material.

The word “surgeon” and what it means

One of the more widely discussed changes relates to the use of the title “surgeon”. Under Australian law, the protected titles of “surgeon”, “specialist surgeon”, and related terms may only be used by medical practitioners who hold specialist registration in a recognised surgical specialty — such as plastic surgery, general surgery, or otolaryngology.

Medical practitioners who perform cosmetic surgery but do not hold specialist surgical registration are required to use other titles, such as “cosmetic doctor” or “medical practitioner who performs cosmetic surgery”.

This distinction does not necessarily reflect on the quality of care — many experienced cosmetic doctors who do not hold specialist surgical registration have years of training in cosmetic procedures. It does, however, mean patients should understand what a practitioner’s AHPRA registration actually includes before booking.

Dr Georgina Konrat holds General Registration with AHPRA (Registration: MED0001407863) and is a Surgical Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine (FACCSM). She practises as a cosmetic doctor.

Requirements for under-18 patients

The guidelines introduced additional protections for patients under 18 years of age:

• A three-month cooling-off period applies (rather than seven days)
• A psychological assessment by a registered mental health practitioner is required before surgery
• Procedures that are not clinically necessary are generally discouraged for minors

These additional requirements reflect concerns about the long-term impact of cosmetic surgery decisions made during adolescence.

Mental health and psychological screening

The updated guidelines require practitioners to consider patients’ mental health and wellbeing as part of the consultation process. This includes:

• Assessing for body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), which is a recognised contraindication for cosmetic surgery
• Referring patients for psychological assessment where appropriate
• Declining to proceed with surgery if mental health factors suggest it would not be in the patient’s interest

Patients with active mental health concerns are not excluded from cosmetic surgery, but the practitioner is expected to ensure that appropriate support is in place and that the decision to proceed is based on stable, considered motivations.

Informed consent requirements

Informed consent under the updated guidelines requires more than a patient signing a form. The practitioner must ensure the patient:

• Understands the nature of the procedure and what it involves
• Understands the realistic range of outcomes
• Understands the specific risks and potential complications
• Understands the recovery requirements
• Has been informed about alternatives, including non-surgical alternatives where applicable
• Has had the opportunity to ask questions
• Has received written information they can review

Written information must be provided before the cooling-off period begins.

What to ask when choosing a cosmetic practitioner

The updated guidelines make it easier for patients to verify practitioner qualifications and approach. Suggested questions to ask during consultation include:

• What is your AHPRA registration number? (You can verify this on the AHPRA public register)
• What training and qualifications do you hold for this specific procedure?
• How long have you been performing this procedure?
• What are the specific risks for this procedure in my case?
• What is your approach to complications?
• What happens during the cooling-off period?
• What aftercare is included?
• Can I see written information about the procedure before I decide?

A practitioner who follows the updated guidelines will welcome these questions.

Red flags to watch for

Practices that do not comply with updated guidelines may be a sign that a practitioner is not operating to current professional standards. Patients should be cautious if they encounter:

• Advertising that uses superlatives or promises specific outcomes
• No GP referral requirement mentioned
• Pressure to book surgery at or shortly after the first consultation
• No mention of a cooling-off period
• No discussion of risks during consultation
• No provision of written information before booking
• Financial incentives or discounts to book immediately
• Testimonials claiming life-changing or emotional outcomes

If a practitioner does not appear to be following the updated guidelines, patients can seek a second opinion elsewhere or report concerns to AHPRA.

What the guidelines mean for patients

The updated guidelines represent a shift towards a more considered, less promotional approach to cosmetic surgery in Australia. For patients, this means:

• A longer process from initial interest to surgery (at least 2–3 weeks with consultations and cooling-off)
• More time and information to make the decision
• Clearer expectations about what cosmetic surgery can and cannot achieve
• Stronger protection against misleading advertising
• Greater transparency about practitioner qualifications

Most patients find the process helpful rather than frustrating — the additional time and information supports a more confident decision.

Further information

For more information about AHPRA cosmetic surgery guidelines, see the AHPRA website. To verify any Australian medical practitioner’s registration, use the AHPRA public register.

To book a consultation with Dr Georgina Konrat at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic, please call 07 3391 5710 or email info@brisbanecosmetic.com.au.

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. AHPRA guidelines may be updated — patients should refer to the AHPRA website for the most current information. Last reviewed: 17 April 2026.

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This is general information. Individual circumstances require consultation with a registered medical practitioner.

What breast reduction addresses

Breast reduction surgery removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce overall breast size. It is most commonly considered by patients experiencing physical symptoms associated with large breasts:

• Neck, shoulder, and upper back pain
• Grooving from bra straps
• Skin irritation or rashes in the fold beneath the breast
• Difficulty with exercise and sport
• Difficulty finding well-fitting clothing
• Postural changes

Breast reduction changes both the volume and the position of the breasts. The nipple and areola are repositioned to sit proportionally on the reduced breast, and the areola may also be resized. Further information is available on our breast reduction page.

What breast lift addresses

Breast lift (mastopexy) surgery repositions existing breast tissue to a higher position on the chest wall. It does not remove a significant volume of breast tissue. It is most commonly considered by patients who experience changes to breast position, shape, or nipple position due to:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Significant weight loss
• Age-related changes in skin elasticity
• Genetic factors

Mastopexy removes excess skin and tightens the remaining skin to reshape the breast. The nipple and areola are repositioned as part of the procedure. Further information is available on our breast lift page.

How to think about the difference

A simple way to frame the distinction:

• Breast reduction changes how much breast tissue there is.
• Breast lift changes where the breast tissue sits.

Some patients require a combination of both — for example, a patient with large breasts that have also changed position over time may need both tissue reduction and repositioning. This is assessed during consultation.

Which procedure might be appropriate for me?

The following general guide may help patients think about which consultation to pursue. Final suitability is determined during consultation, not from a list.

Breast reduction may be considered when:

• Breast size causes physical pain or discomfort
• Daily activities or exercise are limited by breast size
• Bra straps cause grooving into the shoulders
• Skin irritation is a recurrent issue
• Breast size has not responded to weight loss

Breast lift may be considered when:

• Breast volume is acceptable but position has changed
• The nipple sits lower than it once did
• Changes followed pregnancy, breastfeeding, or significant weight loss
• The patient does not want a change in breast size

A combination may be considered when:

• Both size and position are concerns
• Breasts are both large and have changed position significantly

What both procedures have in common

Breast reduction and breast lift share several features:

• Both are cosmetic surgical procedures performed under general anaesthetic by an accredited anaesthetist
• Both involve repositioning the nipple and areola
• Both require incisions and leave permanent scars (scar patterns vary with technique)
• Both have a recovery period of approximately 6 weeks before return to strenuous exercise
• Both are regulated under AHPRA cosmetic surgery guidelines and require a GP referral, two consultations, and a 7-day cooling-off period
• Both may affect future breastfeeding capacity — this should be discussed if planning future pregnancies

Differences in recovery

Recovery is broadly similar between the two procedures, though breast reduction — which involves removing a larger volume of tissue — may involve slightly longer healing in some cases. General expectations include:

• Hospital stay (usually day-surgery or one night)
• Prescribed pain relief for the first week
• A surgical bra worn for several weeks
• Return to sedentary activities within 2 weeks
• Return to light exercise at 4–6 weeks
• Return to strenuous exercise at 6–8 weeks on medical advice
• Final appearance visible over 3–6 months as swelling resolves

Specific recovery instructions are provided after consultation.

Medicare and private health insurance

Breast reduction may be partially covered by Medicare when performed for documented medical reasons (such as neck/back pain documented by a GP, with specific criteria met). A Medicare item number may apply, in which case private health insurance may also contribute to the hospital component of the cost. Eligibility is determined by Medicare, not the clinic.

Breast lift performed for purely cosmetic reasons is not typically covered by Medicare or private health insurance. Some cases following significant weight loss may qualify for Medicare rebate. Patients should discuss eligibility with their GP.

Risks of breast surgery

Both breast reduction and breast lift carry risks. Potential complications may include:

• Delayed wound healing
• Infection
• Bleeding or haematoma
• Scarring (including hypertrophic or keloid scarring)
• Asymmetry
• Changes in nipple or breast sensation (sometimes permanent)
• Impact on future breastfeeding capacity
• Loss of nipple (rare, more relevant for very large reductions)
• 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.

AHPRA requirements

Both breast reduction and breast lift are cosmetic surgical procedures 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, imaging)
• Provide informed consent after receiving written information

Please note

Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic does not perform breast augmentation or implant placement. Patients considering breast augmentation should consult a registered practitioner who performs that procedure.

Dr Georgina Konrat does perform breast implant removal (explantation) for patients with existing implants who wish to have them removed.

Further information

To book a consultation with Dr Georgina Konrat at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic, please call 07 3391 5710 or email info@brisbanecosmetic.com.au. Our types of breast surgery article provides an overview of all breast procedures offered.

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.

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The answers below are general information. Individual circumstances vary and specific advice requires consultation with a registered medical practitioner.

About the procedure

1. What is labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure that reduces the size or reshapes the labia minora (inner lips), and sometimes the clitoral hood. It can be performed for functional reasons (physical discomfort, irritation, difficulty with clothing or exercise) or for personal reasons related to appearance after childbirth or age-related change.

2. What techniques are used for labiaplasty?

The three most commonly described techniques are the trim method (longitudinal resection), the wedge method, and the DOVE Surgical Technique. Each has different features in terms of scar placement, preservation of the natural labial edge, and risk profile. Further information is available in our comparison of labiaplasty techniques.

3. What is the DOVE Surgical Technique?

The DOVE Surgical Technique (Double Offset V-Plasty with Extended De-epithelialisation) is a labiaplasty method developed by Dr Georgina Konrat in 2005 and published in peer-reviewed literature in 2012. It uses superficial dissection rather than full-thickness tissue removal, with the aim of preserving sensation and reducing the risk of wound dehiscence. Further information is on our DOVE Surgical Technique page.

4. How long does labiaplasty take?

The duration depends on the technique and the scope of the procedure. The DOVE technique takes longer than the trim or wedge method because of the careful layered closure involved. Dr Konrat discusses expected procedure time during consultation.

Who may be a candidate

5. Who is a suitable candidate for labiaplasty?

Suitability is assessed during consultation. Factors considered include individual anatomy, general health, medical history (including conditions that affect wound healing), smoking status, and realistic expectations. Not every patient presenting for labiaplasty consultation will proceed to surgery.

6. Is there an age limit for labiaplasty?

AHPRA cosmetic surgery guidelines require that practitioners exercise particular caution with patients under 18. Labiaplasty should not generally be performed on minors for purely cosmetic reasons. Exceptions may apply for documented functional concerns, with appropriate psychological screening and parental involvement. Adults of any age may be suitable candidates, subject to individual assessment.

7. Can labiaplasty be done after childbirth?

Yes. Many patients present for labiaplasty consultation after vaginal delivery. It is generally recommended that patients wait until they have completed breastfeeding and returned to a stable weight before considering the procedure. Patients planning future pregnancies may be encouraged to postpone labiaplasty, depending on circumstances.

8. Can labiaplasty be revised if I had it done elsewhere?

Yes. Dr Konrat performs revision labiaplasty for patients who have had previous surgery elsewhere. Each revision case is assessed individually — the technique used in the original surgery, the current anatomical state, and the specific concerns being addressed all affect what is possible.

AHPRA requirements and process

9. What do I need before booking labiaplasty?

Under AHPRA cosmetic surgery guidelines, patients must obtain a GP referral, attend two pre-operative consultations (one may be conducted via telehealth), and observe a minimum seven-day cooling-off period after the second consultation before surgery can be booked. These requirements apply to all cosmetic surgery in Australia.

10. Why is a GP referral required?

AHPRA updated its cosmetic surgery guidelines to include a mandatory GP referral requirement. This exists to ensure patients have had an initial medical discussion about their reasons for considering cosmetic surgery and any relevant health factors before a consultation with a cosmetic practitioner.

11. What happens in a labiaplasty consultation?

A consultation includes a full medical history review, physical examination, discussion of technique options, explanation of realistic outcomes and risks, discussion of recovery and aftercare, and a written quote. Two consultations are required and patients are encouraged to take notes and bring questions.

Recovery

12. How long does recovery take?

Return to sedentary activities is generally possible within 3–5 days. Full recovery, including return to sexual activity and strenuous exercise, takes 6–8 weeks. The final aesthetic result is typically visible at 3–6 months as swelling resolves. See our labiaplasty recovery guide for a week-by-week breakdown.

13. How much pain is there after labiaplasty?

Discomfort is usually most significant in the first 24–48 hours and improves substantially over the first week. Prescribed pain relief is provided. Most patients describe the recovery as manageable with adequate rest and appropriate medication.

14. When can I have sex after labiaplasty?

Sexual activity is typically avoided for 4–5 weeks after labiaplasty to allow full wound healing. Specific timing is confirmed with the doctor at follow-up appointments.

15. Will labiaplasty affect my ability to have children?

Labiaplasty does not affect fertility or the ability to carry a pregnancy. However, pregnancy and vaginal delivery may affect the surgical result — patients planning future pregnancies are often encouraged to postpone labiaplasty or discuss timing during consultation.

Risks and safety

16. What are the risks of labiaplasty?

Potential complications include delayed wound healing, infection, bleeding, haematoma, wound dehiscence, asymmetry, scarring (including hypertrophic or keloid), changes in sensation, dissatisfaction with aesthetic outcome, and anaesthesia-related risks. Specific risks are discussed in detail during consultation. See our general risks page for more information.

17. Will labiaplasty affect sensation?

Published research on labiaplasty suggests that most patients retain normal sensation after surgery when the procedure is performed carefully. The DOVE Surgical Technique was specifically developed to preserve subcutaneous nerves and blood vessels. However, changes in sensation are a possible complication of any labiaplasty technique and are discussed during consultation.

Cost and insurance

18. How much does labiaplasty cost in Brisbane?

Cost depends on the technique used, case complexity, anaesthetic type, and theatre requirements. Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic provides a written quote during or after consultation. A detailed explanation of what affects cost is available on our labiaplasty cost page.

19. Does Medicare cover labiaplasty?

Labiaplasty is generally considered cosmetic and is not covered by Medicare. Limited circumstances may allow a Medicare rebate — for example, where surgery is performed for a documented functional reason. Eligibility is determined by Medicare, not the clinic. Patients should discuss eligibility with their GP.

20. Will private health insurance cover labiaplasty?

Cover varies by insurer and policy. Where a Medicare item number applies, some private health policies may contribute to the hospital component. Patients should contact their insurer directly with the relevant item number to confirm. Labiaplasty performed for purely cosmetic reasons is typically not covered.

Further information

For more information about labiaplasty and the DOVE Surgical Technique, please see our labiaplasty information page, DOVE Surgical Technique page, or Understanding Labiaplasty article.

To book a consultation with Dr Georgina Konrat at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic, please call 07 3391 5710 or email info@brisbanecosmetic.com.au.

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.

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What abdominoplasty is

Abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgical procedure that addresses excess skin and weakened or separated abdominal muscles. The procedure involves removing excess skin and fat from the lower and middle abdomen, and repairing the underlying abdominal muscle wall with internal sutures.

Unlike some body procedures that only address the surface, abdominoplasty also addresses the muscle layer beneath the skin. This is particularly relevant for patients whose abdominal muscles have been separated (diastasis recti) by pregnancy or significant weight change.

Why patients consider abdominoplasty

Common reasons patients present for abdominoplasty consultation include:

• After pregnancy — the abdominal muscles stretch during pregnancy and may not return fully to their pre-pregnancy position. Excess skin, stretch marks, and a protruding abdomen that does not respond to exercise are common concerns.
• After significant weight loss — patients who have lost a large amount of weight through diet, exercise, or bariatric surgery often have excess skin and residual fatty deposits that do not respond to further lifestyle change.
• Persistent muscle separation — diastasis recti can cause a protruding abdomen, lower back pain, and reduced core strength even in patients who are otherwise fit.

Abdominoplasty is not a weight-loss procedure. Patients who are significantly above their target weight are typically encouraged to achieve and maintain a stable weight before surgery is considered.

Candidacy assessment

Not every patient presenting for abdominoplasty consultation will be a suitable candidate. During consultation, Dr Konrat assesses:

• Skin quality and elasticity
• Amount and location of excess skin and fat
• Condition of the underlying abdominal muscles
• General health and suitability for surgery
• Realistic expectations about the outcome
• Smoking status (smoking significantly impairs wound healing)
• Whether future pregnancies are planned

Based on this assessment, Dr Konrat may recommend:

• Full abdominoplasty — for patients with significant excess skin and muscle separation across the full abdomen
• Partial (mini) abdominoplasty — for patients with concerns limited to the lower abdomen below the navel
• Liposuction alone — for patients with good skin elasticity and localised fat without excess skin or muscle separation
• Deferral of surgery — if further weight loss, smoking cessation, or completion of planned pregnancies is appropriate first

What the procedure involves

Abdominoplasty is performed under general anaesthetic administered by an accredited anaesthetist. The procedure typically includes:

• Pre-operative markings on the skin to guide the surgery
• A horizontal incision made low across the abdomen, typically within or just above the pubic hairline
• Tightening of the separated abdominal muscles with internal sutures
• Removal of excess skin and fat
• Repositioning of the navel, in most cases, to maintain proportional placement
• An additional incision around the navel, if required

Surgery typically takes between one and three hours depending on complexity.

Recovery

Recovery from abdominoplasty is gradual. General expectations include:

• Hospital or day-surgery stay followed by close monitoring
• Drains in place for several days after surgery
• A compression garment worn for several weeks
• Prescribed pain relief for the first week
• Walking encouraged from early in the recovery period, but with a bent posture for the first week or two
• Return to sedentary activities within 2–3 weeks
• Gradual return to strenuous exercise at 6–8 weeks, on medical advice
• Continued improvement in appearance over several months as swelling resolves

Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic monitors recovery closely through follow-up appointments to identify any potential complications early.

AHPRA requirements

Abdominoplasty 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, imaging)
• Provide informed consent

Risks and potential complications

All surgical procedures carry risks. Abdominoplasty is a significant operation with a longer recovery than many other cosmetic procedures. Potential complications may include:

• Delayed wound healing or wound breakdown
• Infection
• Bleeding or haematoma
• Seroma (fluid collection requiring drainage)
• Scarring (the abdominal scar is long and may be permanently visible)
• Changes in abdominal skin sensation
• Blood clots (DVT or pulmonary embolism)
• Anaesthesia-related risks
• Dissatisfaction with aesthetic outcome
• Complications requiring further surgery

Specific risks are discussed in detail during consultation. See our general risks of cosmetic surgery page for further information.

Further information

For further information about abdominoplasty, please visit our abdominoplasty information page. To book a consultation with Dr Georgina Konrat at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic, please call 07 3391 5710 or email info@brisbanecosmetic.com.au.

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.

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Labial anatomy varies widely

The external female genitalia include the labia majora (outer lips), labia minora (inner lips), clitoris, and the external openings of the urethra and vagina. Anatomical variation is normal — published medical literature documents a wide range of labia minora measurements across healthy populations.

In many women, the labia minora sit largely within the labia majora. In others, the labia minora extend beyond. Neither arrangement is abnormal; both fall within the range documented in anatomical studies.

Physical comfort and common concerns

Women present for labiaplasty consultations for a range of reasons. In Dr Georgina Konrat’s clinical experience over more than 25 years of practice, the most commonly reported concerns are:

• Irritation and rubbing — sensitive skin of the labia minora rubbing against clothing during daily activities, exercise, or sports
• Difficulty with clothing — discomfort wearing tight clothing, swimwear, or activewear
• Recurrent skin infections — difficulty maintaining hygiene, sometimes associated with folds between the labia that trap moisture
• Changes after childbirth — changes to labial length or appearance following vaginal delivery
• Personal concerns about appearance — some women describe an aesthetic concern unrelated to physical symptoms

Patients considering labiaplasty for any of these reasons are entitled to factual information about the procedure, the realistic outcomes, and the associated risks.

Surgical approaches to labiaplasty

Longitudinal (trim) resection

The most common international technique. Involves trimming excess tissue along the outer edge of the labia minora. Documented considerations include scarring along the visible edge and removal of the naturally pigmented labial border. The trim method cannot address concerns about excess clitoral hood skin or folds between the labia.

Wedge resection

Involves removing a V-shaped section from the central portion of each labia minora, then suturing the edges together. Preserves the natural labial edge. Documented considerations include the risk of wound dehiscence (the wound opening after surgery) due to full-thickness incisions through delicate tissue.

DOVE Surgical Technique

Dr Konrat developed the DOVE Surgical Technique (Double Offset V-Plasty with Extended De-epithelialisation) in 2005 and published peer-reviewed research on the method in 2012. The technique uses superficial dissection rather than full-thickness tissue removal, with the aim of preserving the subcutaneous nerves, blood vessels, and mucous membranes.

In the DOVE technique, the wound is closed in two separate layers after the excess labial tissue is removed. The technique can also be applied to excess clitoral hood skin or folds between the labia. Further information is available on our labiaplasty information page.

The consultation process

A labiaplasty consultation involves a private, clinical discussion with the doctor, including a physical examination. Patients are encouraged to ask questions, raise concerns, and take notes for later review. Under AHPRA guidelines, two consultations are required before surgery can be booked, and a seven-day cooling-off period applies after the second consultation.

A GP referral is also required under AHPRA cosmetic surgery guidelines. Blood tests and other pre-operative assessments may be requested.

The procedure and recovery

Labiaplasty is typically performed under local anaesthetic with sedation in a day-surgery setting. The DOVE Surgical Technique takes longer than other labiaplasty techniques due to the careful layer-by-layer closure involved.

General recovery expectations (individual experiences vary):

• 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 the 2-week mark

Specific aftercare instructions are provided following consultation.

Risks and potential complications

All surgical procedures carry risks. Potential complications of labiaplasty may include:

• Delayed wound healing
• Infection
• Bleeding or haematoma
• Wound dehiscence
• Asymmetry
• Scarring
• Changes in sensation
• Dissatisfaction with aesthetic outcome
• Anaesthesia-related risks

See our general risks of cosmetic surgery page for further information.

Further information

To book a consultation with Dr Georgina Konrat at Brisbane Cosmetic Clinic, please call 07 3391 5710 or email info@brisbanecosmetic.com.au.

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.

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