Who is Op. Dr. Gülcan Albayrak?
Op. Dr. Gülcan Albayrak is a female obstetrician-gynaecologist (OB-GYN) in Istanbul. She qualified in medicine at Bursa Uludağ University (1995), became an OB-GYN specialist at Dr. Zekai Tahir Burak Women’s Health Hospital in Ankara (2000), worked at Medcare Hospital in Dubai and in Istanbul hospitals, and has focused on cosmetic and functional gynaecology since 2018. She treats international patients through IME Clinic.
Will a woman perform my procedure?
Yes. Your consultation, examination and operation are with Dr. Albayrak herself, a female gynaecologist. Many women find it easier to talk about intimate concerns with a female doctor.
How much does labiaplasty cost in Istanbul?
The price depends on the technique, whether a clitoral hood reduction or other procedures are combined, and the length of your stay. After a free online consultation, IME Clinic sends a personal written quote, so you know the full cost before deciding.
What is included in the quote?
IME Clinic quotes are usually all-inclusive: the procedure, anaesthesia, hospital care, your post-operative check-up, hotel nights and private transfers between airport, hotel and hospital. Your written quote lists exactly what is included and what is not.
How long do I need to stay in Istanbul?
For labiaplasty (with or without a hood reduction), usually 4–6 days including the check-up before your flight. For vaginoplasty, about 7 days. For perineoplasty alone, 3–4 days.
Is labiaplasty painful?
The operation itself is painless under anaesthesia. Afterwards most women describe soreness, pressure and swelling for the first two to three days rather than sharp pain; it is usually well controlled with the painkillers prescribed for you, cold packs and rest.
Is labiaplasty done under local or general anaesthesia?
Labiaplasty can be done under local anaesthesia with sedation, or under spinal or general anaesthesia, depending on your preference, health and whether other procedures are combined. Vaginoplasty is always done in an operating theatre under spinal (Dr. Albayrak’s preference) or general anaesthesia — never under local alone.
When can I go back to work?
Most women return to desk work about one week after labiaplasty and one to two weeks after vaginoplasty. Physically demanding jobs need longer.
When can I have sex, use tampons or exercise again?
Usually after about six weeks for labiaplasty, and six to eight weeks for vaginoplasty, once the doctor confirms healing. Cycling, horse riding, swimming and baths also wait until then.
Will labiaplasty affect sensation or orgasm?
The aim is to keep sensation intact: the clitoris is not operated on and the incisions are planned away from the most sensitive areas. Most women report no change, and many find intercourse and sport more comfortable. Altered or reduced sensation is a recognised but uncommon risk, discussed at your consultation.
Will there be a visible scar?
The scar lies along the edge (trim technique) or within the inner lip (wedge technique). Once healed it is usually very hard to see. It can feel firm for a few weeks and softens over three to six months.
What are the risks?
Possible risks include bleeding or a haematoma, infection, wound separation, asymmetry, removing too much or too little tissue, scar sensitivity, altered sensation and the need for a touch-up. Careful planning, conservative removal, good hygiene and following aftercare instructions reduce these risks.
Can I have children after labiaplasty or vaginoplasty?
Yes. Labiaplasty does not prevent a vaginal birth. After vaginoplasty a future birth can stretch the tissues again, so if you are planning another baby soon, Dr. Albayrak usually recommends postponing vaginoplasty.
What is the minimum age?
18. Dr. Albayrak does not perform cosmetic intimate surgery on anyone under 18, in line with international gynaecological guidance.
Do I have to send intimate photos?
No. Many women begin by describing their concern in writing. If you want a preliminary opinion, you may share photos through the private WhatsApp line; they are used only for your assessment. The final decision is made at your examination in Istanbul.
Is it safe to fly after intimate surgery?
Usually, once the doctor has checked you — about 4–6 days after labiaplasty and 6–7 days after vaginoplasty. Long flights after surgery raise the risk of blood clots: wear loose clothing, drink water and walk regularly. Tell us if you have had a clot, take the combined pill or HRT, smoke or are overweight — you may be advised compression stockings or blood-thinning injections.
Can labiaplasty be combined with other procedures?
Labiaplasty is often combined with a clitoral hood reduction, and vaginoplasty with perineoplasty. Combinations with other cosmetic operations are assessed individually for safety and recovery.
What happens if I have a problem after I return home?
You receive written aftercare instructions and keep a direct line to the IME team, who stay in contact with Dr. Albayrak for questions and photo-based follow-up. For anything urgent, contact a local doctor or emergency service first.
Which languages are spoken?
Dr. Albayrak speaks Turkish and English. IME Clinic’s coordinators provide interpreter support in many languages — confirm support for your language when you book.
Who should not have intimate surgery — or should wait?
Surgery is postponed during pregnancy, for at least six months after giving birth and ideally until breastfeeding has finished, with an active genital infection or untreated vulval skin condition (itching or irritation is often a skin problem, not a labia problem), uncontrolled diabetes, or while taking blood thinners that cannot be paused; vaginoplasty is usually postponed if another birth is planned soon. Smoking slows healing. Surgery is also not right when the wish is driven by a “perfect” image, or when worry about appearance takes over daily life — Dr. Albayrak may then suggest specialist support first. She checks all of this before any decision.
Is labiaplasty covered by health insurance?
Usually not when it is cosmetic. When there is a functional problem, cover depends on your insurer and country — ask your insurer before you book.
