The Butterfly Technique: A Retrospective Study for Labia Minora Reduction Using an Integrated Approach

In recent years, the demand for genital plastic procedures has increased. Of those, the reduction of the labia minora has become very popular. Several techniques are described, with all its advantages and disadvantages. The aim of this study is to introduce a novel approach combining de-epithelialization with wedge resection.

In this retrospective study, we included patients seen between September 2011 and April 2014 with hypertrophic labia minora. The surgical technique consisted in an integrated approach of de-epithelialization and wedge excision. Patients were examined for early and late postoperative complications. Furthermore, patient satisfaction was evaluated at the final follow-up.

A total of 17 labioplasties (Franco type II-IV) in 10 patients with a mean age of 29 ± 12 years (range 20-62 y) were performed. Three patients experienced wound-healing problems, requiring surgical revision. After a median follow-up of 39 ± 6 months (range 28-48 mo), a high overall patient satisfaction has been achieved (8.6 ± 1.1). No dyspareunia, hypertrophic scarring, or micturition problems have been reported.

By using our integrated approach, hereby called the "butterfly technique," the neurovascular supply remains preserved, and an efficient volume reduction can be achieved with a concealed scar. Nevertheless, suture techniques and suture materials have to be tested to reduce the incidence of wound dehiscence rate.