Labiaplasty is an outpatient surgery associated with high (upwards of 92 percent) patient satisfaction rates. Whether done to improve comfort, appearance or to enhance sexual well-being, labia reduction procedures have skyrocketed in recent years for good reason.
Before committing to any type of surgical procedure, let alone one that trims the outer lips of your most intimate parts, it’s a good idea to discuss the risks and recovery process with your plastic surgeon.
Dr. Thomas Loeb explains the recovery for labiaplasty, so patients know what to expect in the first moments after the procedure until healing is complete, some 4-6 months later.
Labiaplasty recovery is fairly straightforward, as long as you’re mentally prepared and know what to anticipate. We recommend that patients take 7-10 days off from work, so they can rest and focus all energies on the healing process. Please wait at least 48 hours after the surgery to shower.
You can expect swelling, tenderness, and discoloration for the first three weeks after labiaplasty. It is perfectly normal for the vulva to look asymmetrical and distorted – don’t be alarmed. You may be prescribed lidocaine to help numb the pain and itching afterward, but for most women, the recovery is uncomplicated.
Swelling and tenderness are a normal part of the labiaplasty healing process. By Day 10 post-op, most patients are ready for some light exercise, which is an important part of the recovery. Walking is an excellent way to circulate the blood without putting undue pressure on the labia. Itching at the incision lines is normal; try and be patient and follow these tips:
If you experience any signs of infection, including redness along the incision lines, pus, strong odors, unusual bleeding or discharge, fever or severe pain, call your surgeon right away.
You may be prescribed pain medication and/or antibiotics post-operatively. These medications are normally well-tolerated but if you experience any adverse side effects such as vomiting, nausea, skin rashes, or increased pain, alert your doctor.
Every patient is different, but generally speaking, you will see the final results of your labiaplasty surgery within 4 to 6 months, sometimes sooner. The first three weeks are undoubtedly the most uncomfortable, because the labia are swollen, distorted and sore. With each passing day, the appearance will improve, as the inflammation gradually subsides.
During the first month, you may still be sensitive to pressure and tight clothing that creates friction, but rest assured that by week 6, you will be feeling and looking much better and more normal ‘down there.’
Your surgeon may use dissolvable sutures, but keep in mind that red-looking scars are normal for the first couple of months. After that, the incision lines will gradually soften and begin to fade.
After 6 weeks, most patients are allowed to resume sexual intercourse. While it may be tempting to celebrate your newly trimmed lady parts sooner, this can prove disastrous for your labiaplasty results, as incisions are still fresh and susceptible to damage. Patience is critical for a successful and uneventful recovery.
For more information about labiaplasty in NYC with Dr. Thomas W. Loeb in Manhattan, we invite you to call our office today.
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