Labiaplasty: a normal, safe procedure or a western form of female genital mutilation?
Women who seek this surgery usually want a reduction in the size of their vulva’s inner labia
In the midst of the rising popularity of labiaplasty, a contentious debate brews, with Professor Caroline de Costa asserting that this cosmetic surgical procedure can be viewed as a western manifestation of female genital mutilation (FGM). While women often seek labiaplasty for aesthetic reasons, it involves altering the inner labia, which contain sensitive erectile tissue interconnected with the clitoral complex—the epicenter of female sexual pleasure. The motivations for this modern practice differ drastically from traditional FGM, which seeks to control women’s sexuality. This article delves into the controversy surrounding labiaplasty, exploring its roots in societal ideals of genital appearance, the impact of pornography and grooming trends, and the ethical concerns raised by de Costa, juxtaposed with perspectives of surgeons like Dr. Cormac Joyce who defend it as a safe and effective procedure.
