Labiaplasty is an elective surgical procedure that can provide a variety of benefits for women with physical and/or cosmetic concerns about their labia.
In our practice, we are often asked about the average cost of labiaplasty surgery in Sydney. We know that cost is a key consideration when planning any type of surgery, so we believe it is critical to provide a realistic picture of the investment required before you decide if it’s the right option for you.
The discussion below is general. We strongly recommend attending a personal consultation with Dr Choy to get an accurate understanding of the costs of your procedure.
What Costs Are Involved in Plastic Surgery?
Most procedures within the plastic surgery specialty have the same basic fees:
- Surgeon
- Anaesthesia
- Surgeon’s Assistant
- Facility / Theatre
- Medications
- Other Aftercare Expenses
- Postoperative Appointments
Some of these fees vary based on the duration of the surgery, the location of the surgery and the experience level of the provider. Additionally, please remember that all patients are unique, and some require a different approach than others. You will receive a custom quote for your surgery during your consultation visit.
Does the Type of Labiaplasty Affect the Cost?
Labiaplasty is usually performed by one of two techniques.
With the edge or trim technique, the surgeon makes a continuous incision along the outer edge of the protruding labia minora to remove excess tissue. This method can be a good option for women who want to eliminate darker-pigmented skin along the labial edges. However, it has some potential disadvantages that Dr Choy will describe at your initial appointment.
With the wedge technique, the surgeon removes a V-shaped wedge of tissue from the labia minora and sutures the remaining edges together. This pulls the entire length of the labia tighter while preserving its natural edges. For various reasons that will be discussed during your consultation, Dr Choy strongly prefers this approach.
Labiaplasty operations can vary significantly in terms of their complexity. The cost of performing the procedure varies accordingly, and therefore, it is essential to come in for a consultation and receive a personalised quote.
What Else Might Affect the Cost of Labiaplasty?
The cost for any surgery can change significantly if additional procedures are involved. Labiaplasty may be part of a post-pregnancy body contouring operation, usually in a staged approach depending on the range of procedures and scope of surgery involved. Post-pregnancy body contouring targets the areas of the body most affected by pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding with a personalised combination of procedures.
Does Medicare Cover Labiaplasty in Australia?
Medicare does not cover elective cosmetic surgery, including labiaplasty undertaken solely for aesthetic reasons. Many women considering labiaplasty should be prepared to pay out-of-pocket for the cost of their surgery.
If labiaplasty is deemed a medical necessity, Medicare may offer a rebate. However, there are strict conditions to meet for this to happen.
When Might Labiaplasty Be Considered a Medical Necessity?
Labiaplasty may be considered necessary for medical reasons if you experience:
- Chronic infections
- Chronic irritation when wearing certain types of clothing
- Pain and discomfort during certain sports or exercises
- Pain and discomfort during intercourse
You must hold a current medical referral at the time of surgery. The referral may come from a specialist or your GP.
What Medicare Item Numbers Are Relevant for Labiaplasty?
These MBS item codes may be applicable for labiaplasty:
- 35533 — Vulvoplasty or labioplasty, for repair of: (a) female genital mutilation; or (b) an anomaly associated with a major congenital anomaly of the uro-gynaecological tract other than a service associated with a service to which item 35536, 37836, 37050, 37842, 37851 or 43882 applies
- 35534 — Vulvoplasty or labioplasty, in a patient aged 18 years or more, performed by a specialist in the practice of the specialist’s specialty, for a structural abnormality that is causing significant functional impairment, if the patient’s labium extends more than 8 cm below the vaginal introitus while the patient is in a standing resting position
Does Private Health Insurance Cover Labiaplasty in Australia?
Cover from a private health insurance fund only applies if the case meets the criteria for a Medicare item number. This may require examinations, documentation and/or photographs from the referring physician.
It is your responsibility to communicate with your health insurance provider to determine your benefits. Even if you have medical reasons for having your labiaplasty and have the right level of coverage with your insurer, you may still be liable for some out-of-pocket expenses.
Are There Other Financing Options for Labiaplasty?
If financing is a concern, ask our team about an instalment plan that could help make your labiaplasty procedure a reality. Alternatively, you may consider taking out a medical loan to assist with the cost of the procedure. We encourage our patients to think carefully before taking on debt to help pay for an elective cosmetic procedure, as this decision should not be taken lightly.
The Final Tally: What Is the Cost of Labiaplasty in Sydney?
The cost of a labiaplasty in Sydney can range from $4,000-$10,000 depending on the extent of the procedure with any ancillary components undertaken at the same time. You will be provided with an accurate quote after your consultation with Dr Choy, so you can be assured you will receive a treatment specifically tailored to your needs. We make all efforts to ensure our procedures are priced acceptably and ethically, allowing patients the opportunity to make the personal changes they need or desire.
Meet with Dr Ellis Choy to Discuss Labiaplasty
Whether you are concerned about aesthetic appearance or you suffer from chronic irritation, labiaplasty may be able to improve your comfort. Dr Choy is experienced with performing this intimate surgery and helping patients feel at ease under his care. You can learn more about labiaplasty by visiting Dr Choy’s before and after gallery.
Request a consultation with Dr Choy by calling (02) 8962 9388 or submitting an enquiry online.
Categories: