JPRAS Open (Sep 2017)
Classification of labia minora hypertrophy: A retrospective study of 100 patient cases
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to establish a new classification system for labial hypertrophy based on shape and clinical symptomatology, rather than on measurement of the length in centimetres. The aim of this classification system is to be able to select surgical strategies based on the type of labial hypertrophy. From 2005 to 2014, we undertook a retrospective study analysing 100 patient files, chosen at random from our database of 400 patient cases and pre-operational photographs to reduce the labia minora, also known as labiaplasty. The author analysed data from each individual patient file concerning the shape of the labia minora, patients' symptomatology and the chosen operational technique. We found three types of labial hypertrophy, constituting a new system of classification: Type I: the anterior one third form, called “flag”. 11 patient cases were observed (11%). Type II: the middle third form, called “oblique”. 29 patient cases were observed (29%). Type III: the posterior third form, called “complete”. 60 patient cases were observed (60%). In symptomatology terms, Type I was characterized by an undesirable aesthetic appearance and discomfort in the crotch area caused by wearing tight clothing, but not by dyspareunia. Type II showed an overall fuller appearance. Type III presented frequent dyspareunia more often than Type I and Type II. For Type I, the surgical technique selected was a superior pedicule flap, with only a moderate labial resection, which follows the edge of the labia minora. For Type II and Type III, the lambda laser technique was systematically proposed. The proposed system of classification seems to correspond better to patient symptomatology as compared to a system based on straightforward measurement of the length in centimetres. The proposed system of classification makes it possible to adjust the surgical strategy to suit patients' expectations.
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