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"I'm a teenager, but I'm self-conscious about the shape of my vulva." "I want to see before-and-after photos, but what should I use as a benchmark?" — These are very sensitive concerns that are hard to discuss with others, aren't they?

 

First of all, I want to let you know that there's no need to rush.

 

Since gynecological plastic surgery affects not only appearance but also future physical changes and bodily functions, it is important to make a careful choice based on your age and life plans.

 

Especially in areas with many options, such as Tokyo and Ginza, where there is a wealth of information and it’s easy to get overwhelmed, the first step is to understand the “right way to look at things” and know where to turn for advice.

 

In this article, a doctor explains—in an easy-to-understand manner—the basics for teenagers considering gynecological cosmetic surgery, how to interpret before-and-after photos, who is and isn’t a good candidate for each procedure, costs and downtime, and the consultation process in Ginza, Tokyo.

 

Recognizing that this is an area where individual differences are significant, and taking into account the range of outcomes, pain levels, downtime, and duration of results, we’ll provide practical insights that will encourage you to think, “Why not start by discussing my concerns?”

 

[Doctor’s Point]

There are pitfalls to going with the cheapest option—such as being treated by an inexperienced doctor. Once you’ve had too much removed, it’s very difficult to reverse the results, so don’t be swayed by low prices; be sure to choose a qualified doctor.

Essentials to Know Before Considering Gynecological Cosmetic Surgery in Ginza, Tokyo

Gynecological plastic surgery is a medical procedure that uses surgery or injections to improve the appearance, comfort, and function of the vulva (including the labia minora, clitoral hood, labia majora, and mons pubis) and the area around the vaginal opening.

 

Generally, these clinics primarily offer out-of-pocket treatments not covered by insurance. Even at clinics in Tokyo or Ginza, it’s reassuring to go over the full cost, anesthesia methods, postoperative care, and follow-up schedule in detail during your consultation.

 

Furthermore, the goal of gynecological plastic surgery is not to “eliminate any asymmetry,” but rather to create a design that “reduces current daily discomfort while also taking future physical changes into account.”

 

While many people come to Ginza from Tokyo and the surrounding areas for consultations, ease of travel and the frequency of post-operative follow-up visits are also important factors to consider when choosing a clinic.

Physical Characteristics and Timing During Adolescence

From puberty through the late teens, hormonal changes cause the vulva to continue developing, and its shape and thickness change during this period.

 

If you experience pain in your labia minora due to friction from sports, cycling, school uniforms, or underwear, or if you have hygiene concerns that interfere with your daily life, you should consult a doctor.

 

On the other hand, considering that the condition is still developing, we carefully evaluate whether surgery is appropriate at this time or whether we should start with conservative measures, such as adjusting underwear and moisturizing.

 

Minors are often required to be accompanied by a parent or guardian or to obtain their consent, and the same procedure applies in Ginza, Tokyo.

How to Find and Interpret Before-and-After Photos

The "Before & After" photos of treatment cases shown online are merely individual examples and do not guarantee the same results for you.

 

The way a person looks can vary greatly depending on the camera angle, lighting, whether they have puffiness, and the time of year the photo was taken.

 

From a privacy and ethical standpoint, “Before & After” photos of teenagers are generally not widely published; in some cases, they are presented anonymously and on a limited basis solely within the clinic.

 

Rather than focusing on the photo itself, pay attention to whether the doctor can clearly explain “why they chose that design” and “the reasons behind it, taking future changes into account.”

Key Points and Who This Treatment Is Suitable For (or Not) for Each Procedure

Labia Minora Reduction: Understanding Its Role in Protecting the Vagina from Dryness

The labia minora are important tissues that protect the urethral opening and vaginal opening from dryness and friction. During menopause, a decrease in estrogen causes the inside of the vagina to become dry and atrophic, and the labia minora also tend to become thinner.

 

If too much tissue is removed when you are young, you may experience problems later in life, such as dryness, pain from friction, and pain during sexual intercourse.

 

That is precisely why it is important for designs intended for teenagers to “retain only the minimum necessary functionality.” Be sure to consult with experts—such as obstetricians and gynecologists or physicians with expertise in female urology—who can design products with functionality in mind.

Clitoral Hood Reduction: Prioritizing Sensation Above All Else

Clitoral hood reduction is sometimes performed at the same time as labia minora reduction, but it is essential to take sensitivity (perception) into consideration.

 

Excessive excision or scarring can lead to discomfort, changes in sensitivity, and pain.

 

To begin with, it is normal for the clitoris to be covered by a fold of skin (the clitoral hood), and there is no cause for concern if it is temporarily exposed due to an erection or a change in position or posture.

 

Cases where clitoral hood removal is truly necessary are extremely rare, and extensive removal based solely on "appearance" is not recommended.

 

Removing too much foreskin can expose the area to direct dryness and friction, which may interfere with sexual function (including pleasure, orgasm, and the presence or absence of pain).

 

For teenagers, start by assessing the severity of the symptoms and the challenges they face in daily life, and consider trying conservative measures (such as choosing the right underwear, moisturizing, and preventing friction) first.

 

If you are strongly urged to undergo a clitoral hoodectomy or additional procedures even though they are not medically necessary, there is a possibility that you are being pressured into upsells. For your peace of mind, it’s best not to make a decision on the spot but to seek a second opinion instead.

Vulvar Volume Adjustment (Labia Majora, Mons Pubis)

Fat injections and hyaluronic acid injections into the labia majora, as well as volume adjustment of the mons pubis, are used to improve aesthetic balance.

 

However, since teenagers are more susceptible to fluctuations in body fat and the effects of growth, the decision to proceed should be made with caution. As a first step, it can be helpful to take a comprehensive look at changes in body shape and how to choose clothing and underwear.

Who is a good candidate for vaginal tightening (posterior vaginal wall reconstruction) and perineal reconstruction (vaginal opening reconstruction)?

Vaginal tightening (posterior vaginal wall reconstruction) and perineoplasty (vaginal opening reconstruction) are options considered for women who experience significant looseness or discomfort due to childbirth, aging, or trauma.

 

However, it is not suitable for women who plan to give birth vaginally in the future. This is because the stretching that occurs during childbirth may alter the effectiveness of the procedure or increase the risk of tearing.

 

For teenagers considering future pregnancy and childbirth, prioritize non-surgical approaches—such as pelvic floor rehabilitation and lifestyle guidance—and consult with a specialist from a long-term perspective.

How Consultations Are Conducted in Ginza, Tokyo

There are many places to seek advice in central Tokyo and the Ginza area. If you have several options, try sharing the same concern with each one and comparing the consistency and persuasiveness of their explanations—this will help you see the differences.

 

Practical considerations—such as ease of getting to the clinic, post-operative communication channels, and the ability to secure an appointment when needed—are also important for peace of mind.

• Preparations: Make a note of specific situations where you’re having trouble (such as walking, exercising, sitting, or chafing from underwear). If there are any “Before & After” examples that catch your eye, put into words exactly what you like about them.

• Consent of Minors: Many facilities require a parent or guardian to be present and give consent.

• Details of the Examination: Confirm whether an explanation is provided before a visual or physical examination, and whether the policy regarding photographs (storage and non-disclosure) is clearly defined.

• Quality of Explanations: Are the details specific regarding the rationale for the extent of excision, considerations regarding future risk of dryness, suturing techniques, anesthesia, pain management, and estimated downtime?

• Costs and Hospital Visits: Confirm the total cost, follow-up visits and suture removal, conditions for reoperation, and methods for remote follow-up (for patients living outside of Ginza, Tokyo).

Checkpoints for Choosing a Doctor

The key is to choose an OB-GYN who can properly tailor treatment to each individual case, or a doctor who is well-versed in women’s health.

 

Obstetricians and gynecologists—particularly those who have specialized in female urology—tend to be better able to offer recommendations that take into account not only appearance but also function and long-term prospects. This perspective is common not only in Tokyo and Ginza but also elsewhere.

• Verification of Expertise: Are you a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist, or do you have training in female urology? Is your experience in gynecological plastic surgery (e.g., labia minora, clitoral hood, perineoplasty, posterior vaginal wall reconstruction) limited to specific areas?

• Be Careful When Listing Your Work History: Be cautious of statements that make it seem as though a doctor—who was once affiliated with an obstetrics and gynecology department but no longer provides women’s health care—is still running a specialized outpatient clinic as an obstetrician and gynecologist. Be sure to confirm whether the doctor is currently involved in women’s health care.

• Differences in Experience with Female Urology: Even among urologists, there are some who have had little experience treating female urological conditions. Even if a physician appears to specialize in women’s health, their experience in women’s health in general may be limited if they have not sufficiently honed their expertise in female urology.

• Presentation of "Before & After": Even if there are few publicly available photos, will the clinic explain the design intent, limitations, and individual variations while showing “before and after” images anonymously and following proper procedures?

• Thinking About the Future: Does the clinic have a design that avoids excessive removal of the labia minora, and does it clearly communicate that vaginal tightening and perineoplasty make future vaginal deliveries inadvisable?

A Simple Guide to Costs, Downtime, and Risks

Treatment is generally self-pay, and the cost varies depending on the procedure, anesthesia, and number of visits. Downtime may include swelling, puffiness, and tightness lasting from a few days to a few weeks, and it may take several months for the area to fully settle.

 

The level of pain, the results, and the duration may vary from person to person.

• Common Risks: Bleeding, infection, wound dehiscence, scarring, asymmetry, changes in sensation, tendency toward dryness, differences in satisfaction, and the possibility of additional adjustments.

• Lifestyle Precautions: Follow your doctor’s instructions to gradually resume activities such as maintaining good hygiene, taking showers, exercising, riding a bike, and participating in club activities, as well as making adjustments to your choice of underwear.

• Schedule: It’s practical to avoid important events—such as school, entrance exams, club tournaments, and school trips—and schedule activities around long weekends and extended breaks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ginza, Tokyo

Can I take this course without missing school or club activities?

In many cases, rest is recommended for a few days to a week. You may need to avoid activities that cause friction or cause you to sweat heavily for a little longer. Clinics in Tokyo and Ginza will also provide guidance on when you can resume your normal activities, depending on the surgical procedure and individual differences.

When does it coincide with my period?

Generally, the procedure is scheduled for a time when it is easy to maintain good hygiene and when you are not menstruating. You can discuss scheduling options individually at each of our clinics in Ginza, Tokyo.

Can minors receive this service?

While it depends on the facility’s policy, parental consent or the parent’s presence is often required. First, assess the severity of the symptoms and consider a step-by-step approach that includes the effectiveness of conservative treatments. Medical facilities in Ginza, Tokyo, follow a similar process.

Can I see the "Before & After" photos?

While “Before & After” photos of teenagers are rarely published online, you may be able to view anonymous records at the clinic. Let’s review the context of the photos together—such as when they were taken, the angle, and the degree of swelling.

Can I get advice even if I don't live in Tokyo or Ginza?

Yes, it is possible. There is a growing trend toward flexible arrangements, such as having the initial consultation online, coming to the clinic for surgery, and combining online and in-person follow-up care after the procedure.

 

It’s a good idea to confirm in advance how you’ll schedule appointments during times when getting around is difficult, as well as how to contact the clinic in case of an emergency. It’s also important to consider how long it takes to get to Tokyo or Ginza, and whether a nearby clinic can provide coordinated care in case of an emergency.

People Suited for Their Teens / People Who Should Consider This Carefully (Guidelines)

• Suitable for: When friction, pain, or hygiene issues are severe and cannot be adequately resolved through conservative treatment. Individuals who can work with a specialist to develop a treatment plan that takes future changes into account.

• People who want to consider this carefully: When there is only a cosmetic asymmetry with minimal functional impairment; during periods of significant growth and development; or when there is a clear desire for a future vaginal delivery (particularly in cases of vaginal narrowing or perineal reconstruction).

Summary

When it comes to gynecological plastic surgery for teenagers, it is most important to strike a balance between “alleviating current discomfort” and “protecting their bodies for the future.”

 

Before-and-after photos are only one factor to consider; the deciding factor is whether the doctor explains the rationale for the extent of excision, takes functional considerations into account, and addresses potential future issues such as dryness and sensory changes—rather than simply focusing on the aesthetic appeal of the photos.

 

In particular, the labia minora are vital tissues that protect the vagina and urethral opening from dryness; since excessive removal can lead to future dryness and pain during intercourse, it is essential that the procedure be planned by a highly specialized physician.

 

Also, keep in mind that vaginal tightening (posterior vaginal wall reconstruction) and perineoplasty (vaginal opening reconstruction) are not suitable for women who plan to give birth vaginally in the future.

 

When choosing a doctor, we recommend an OB-GYN who can properly tailor treatment based on the specific case, or a physician with specialized training in female urology. Pay close attention to how their professional background is presented, and verify that they are currently and continuously involved in women’s healthcare.

 

Since gynecological plastic surgery is generally not covered by insurance and is a self-pay service, it is important to make a choice that is manageable for you, taking into account both the costs and your treatment schedule.

 

While there are many options in Tokyo and Ginza, try to find a consultant who’s a good fit for you based on these criteria: “Will they listen to you carefully?” “Will they honestly explain the limitations of ‘before and after’ results and individual differences?” and “Will they take future changes in your body into account?”

 

If you want to see if this is right for you, don’t limit yourself to Ginza, Tokyo—feel free to consult a trusted specialist first. Don’t keep your concerns to yourself; just take it one step at a time at your own pace, and you’ll be fine.

 

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