General Registration MED0001407863 This website contains imagery which is only suitable for audiences 18+. All surgery contains risks. Read more here.
Risks & Complications of Surgery
Every surgical procedure involves some degree of risk. Understanding those risks helps you make informed choices and recognise what’s part of normal healing versus when to seek review. Complications can occur with any surgical procedure. Some complications are temporary and resolve during healing. Other complications may be permanent. All potential risks should be understood before making any decision.
Before Your Surgery
Before your procedure, you’ll receive clear written and verbal information explaining:
➔ What the surgery involves
➔ How long recovery typically takes and what to expect
➔ Risks and factors specific to your health and anatomy
➔ How to prepare and what to avoid in the lead-up
➔ Post-operative care instructions and signs to watch for
Following this advice is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support your safety and surgical outcome.
Scarring & Healing
All surgery leaves a scar, that’s how the body repairs itself.
Scars evolve over time, usually following three stages:
1. Early (0–6 weeks): the scar may appear red or purple, raised, and firm.
2. Maturing (6 weeks – 12 months): the tissue softens, flattens, and fades.
3. Final (12 – 18 months): the scar generally becomes paler and less noticeable, though always permanent.
Some people naturally develop thicker or more visible scars, known as keloid or hypertrophic scars. If this occurs, silicone dressings, topical creams, or laser therapy may help. The DOVE surgical approach works within surface tissue layers. However, all surgical procedures result in scarring. Individual healing varies significantly based on genetics, skin type, and aftercare. No surgical technique can eliminate scarring or guarantee specific scar outcomes.
Common Surgical Risks
Every operation, whether minor or complex, carries a degree of risk. Most are temporary and resolve with time and care, but it’s important to understand what they are and how they may appear.
Bleeding and haematoma: A haematoma is a small collection of blood under the skin after surgery, which can cause swelling, firmness, or bruising. Small haematomas usually settle on their own, while larger ones may need to be drained in the clinic. Avoiding aspirin, anti-inflammatory medication, and certain supplements before surgery helps reduce this risk.
Infection: Even with strict sterile technique, bacteria can occasionally enter a healing wound.
Typical signs include redness, warmth, swelling, pus, or fever. Most infections respond quickly to antibiotics, though some may require wound care or drainage.
Wound separation or delayed healing: Sometimes stitches can stretch, or small parts of the wound may reopen, especially if the area is under tension or exposed to friction too soon.
Keeping the wound clean, dry, and supported helps it heal properly.
Pain and discomfort: Mild to moderate discomfort is expected in the first few days and should gradually improve. If pain suddenly worsens or feels unusual, contact the clinic for review.
Swelling and bruising: Swelling is a normal part of recovery and usually peaks around day two or three before easing over the next couple of weeks. Bruising often changes colour from deep purple to yellow as it fades.
Changes in sensation Temporary numbness, tingling, or hypersensitivity can occur when small nerves are stretched during surgery. Sensation usually returns within weeks to months. Permanent changes are uncommon.
Scarring: Every incision heals by forming a scar. Its appearance depends on your skin type, genetics, and how well you follow post-operative care instructions. Most scars fade considerably within 6–12 months.
Asymmetry: Perfect symmetry doesn’t exist in nature. Small differences between sides are normal before and after surgery.
Allergic reactions: Mild skin irritation or itching can occur due to dressings, adhesives, or medications. Severe allergic reactions are very rare but can be treated promptly if they occur.
Anaesthetic effects: Some people experience nausea, dizziness, or a sore throat after sedation or general anaesthesia. These effects typically resolve within 24 hours.
Emotional or physical fatigue: It’s common to feel tired or emotionally flat for a week or two after surgery. This usually improves as you heal and regain energy.
Risks Specific to Labiaplasty Surgery
Labiaplasty involves delicate, highly sensitive tissue. In addition to the general risks of surgery, there are a few that are more specific to this procedure. Learn more about the DOVE labiaplasty surgery approach.
Over- or under-reduction: If too much tissue is removed, the area can feel tight, dry, or uncomfortable. If too little is removed, some unevenness or bulk may remain. These risks are discussed during consultation. Surgical planning involves assessment of individual anatomy and discussion of surgical options.
Contour irregularities: As swelling settles, small irregularities or notches can appear.
These often smooth out over time as the tissue softens and heals.
Visible scarring or edge thickening: Scars may develop along the inner edge of the labia or where incisions meet. They can appear firm or pale at first and usually soften as healing progresses.
Changes in sensation: Temporary numbness or heightened sensitivity is common while nerves recover. Long-term changes are rare but possible.
Discomfort during intimacy: Tenderness can persist for several weeks or months while tissues and nerves settle. This generally improves with time and gentle care.
Raised or firm tissue: Occasionally, the scar line may feel thick or uneven.
Massage, silicone therapy, or (if needed) minor revision can help smooth the area.
Revision surgery: Some patients may consider revision labiaplasty surgery. Any revision surgery carries its own risks and is discussed in detail during consultation.
Rare But Serious Risks
Serious complications are extremely uncommon, but they can occur with any surgery.
Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Blood clots can form in the legs and, in rare cases, travel to the lungs. Risk increases with smoking, hormonal medication, obesity, or limited movement after surgery. To reduce this risk, we encourage early mobilisation, use compression stockings, and prescribe medication when indicated.
Severe allergic or anaesthetic reaction: Life-threatening reactions are very rare (around 1 in 10,000 cases). A qualified anaesthetist monitors you throughout the procedure and is trained to manage these events immediately.
Major medical events: Serious events such as stroke, heart attack, or irregular heart rhythm are exceptionally rare in healthy patients undergoing day surgery, but they remain possible with any anaesthetic.
How We Help Reduce Risks
Your safety is the priority in every stage of care.
Surgical procedures are performed at accredited facilities with appropriate safety protocols.
➔ Comprehensive pre-operative assessment and blood tests when required
➔ Surgery performed only in accredited hospitals that meet Australian safety standards
➔ Specialist anaesthetists present throughout every procedure
➔ These steps work together to lower complication rates and help ensure your recovery is as smooth as possible.
➔ Strict sterile technique and infection-control protocols
➔ Detailed aftercare plans and scheduled follow-up appointments to monitor healing and recovery
These steps work together to lower complication rates and help ensure your recovery is as smooth as possible.
All procedures are performed by Dr Georgina Konrat and her all-female surgical team at Double Bay Day Hospital. Additional procedure information is available for mons pubis liposuction.
How You Can Help Reduce Risks
Good preparation and aftercare make a real difference to your recovery.
Follow the instructions provided before and after your surgery as closely as possible.
Before Surgery
➔ Stop smoking or vaping at least four weeks before and after
➔ Avoid aspirin, anti-inflammatories, and supplements such as fish oil or vitamin E
➔ Tell us about all medications, allergies, and medical conditions
➔ Arrange help at home for the first few days after surgery
➔ Follow fasting, showering, and hygiene instructions carefully
After Surgery
➔ Keep the area clean and dry
➔ Wear loose cotton underwear or clothing
➔ Avoid pressure, sexual activity, and strenuous exercise until cleared
➔ Take medications exactly as prescribed
➔ Attend all follow-up appointments
➔ Contact the clinic if anything feels unusual or concerning
When To Call The Clinic
Please contact us straight away if you notice:
· Heavy bleeding or sudden swelling
· Fever, chills, or feeling unwell
· Redness, warmth, or unusual discharge
· Severe pain not relieved by medication
· Wound edges reopening
· Chest pain or shortness of breath (call 000 immediately)
Making An Informed Decision
Before any cosmetic procedure:
➔ You’ll have two consultations, including at least one in person
➔ You’ll receive personalised written information about risks and aftercare
➔ A minimum seven-day cooling-off period applies after giving consent
Surgery should only proceed once you feel informed, comfortable, and confident in your decision. If you’re uncertain, seeking a second opinion is always encouraged.
For more information about procedures, consultations, and labiaplasty cost in Sydney, visit our information pages.
Disclaimer
This information is general and does not replace personalised medical advice.
Every patient’s anatomy and healing process are different, risks, recovery, and results vary.
Discuss your individual circumstances with your treating practitioner.
Our Procedures
DOVE
Labiaplasty
DOVE Labiaplasty Surgery is a labiaplasty procedure developed by Dr Georgina Konrat. It involves planned tissue excision within defined anatomical layers as part of individualised surgical assessment and tailored, individual planning during consultation.
Revision
Labiaplasty
Revision labiaplasty may be considered for patients who have previously undergone labiaplasty surgery and have ongoing concerns. Suitability for revision surgery is assessed following a comprehensive consultation, taking into account anatomy, healing, and individual circumstances.
Mons Pubis
Liposuction
Mons pubis liposuction is a surgical procedure that may be used to address excess tissue in the mons pubis region. This procedure may be performed alone or in combination with other surgeries, depending on individual, tailored assessment during consultation and surgical assessment.
Meet Dr Georgina Konrat
MED0001407863
Registered Medical Practitioner
General Registration
Qualifications
MBBS
Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery. University of Sydney
FACCSM
Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine
20+ years experience
All-female surgical team
Accredited facilities
Dr Georgina Konrat (MBBS, FACCSM) is a registered medical practitioner (MED0001407863) with General Registration and Fellow of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine.
She has over twenty years’ experience in women’s health and intimate surgery and developed the DOVE labiaplasty surgery in 2005 with her work formally published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal.
All DOVE procedures are performed by Dr Konrat and her all-female team at Double Bay Day Hospital, an accredited Sydney facility.
Contact Us
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Suite 402/Level 4. 59-75 Grafton Street. Bondi Junction 2022 NSW
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AHPRA Registration: Dr Georgina Konrat MED0001407863 – Registered Medical Practitioner (General Registration)
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Individual results may vary. The information on this website is general in nature and does not constitute medical advice. A consultation with a qualified health practitioner is required to determine suitability.
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