What is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure usually done to reduce the size of your labia minora — skin folds that surround your urethra and vagina. This procedure is usually done for cosmetic reasons, but can also be performed to reduce discomfort due to larger labial folds, or to repair damage or trauma to the area.
Post-Operative Pain Management
Labiaplasty is a procedure on the most delicate area of the female body. Post-operative pain and swelling are expected, but can be managed in order to ease your level of discomfort. You’ll be prescribed medication for pain control, so take this as needed. If you find your discomfort isn’t that strong, feel free to take Tylenol in place of the prescription.
Apply a cool pack covered in a clean cloth to the area to help reduce swelling. Do not apply anything too cold directly to your skin; this can cause a burn and increase pain and discomfort.
Limit Your Activity During Recovery
Limit your movements, such as the amount of walking you do for the first 2-3 days. Avoid all strenuous activity and allow your body the chance to rest and recover. Restrict your movement to only those things essential to getting through your day. Don’t do anything such as shopping, walking the dog or taking your kids to the park within this time period. You’ll want to be sitting or lying down as much as possible to speed the healing process.
When Can You Begin Regular Activities?
Providing your follow-up exam shows that you’re healing well, wait for about two weeks before you begin any form of exercise, starting with gentle physical activity. After three weeks when your incision area is healed, and most of the swelling and bruising has subsided, you can slightly increase your exercise level. This would be mild cardio, swimming, yoga, and similar activities. It is important that you don’t push it. Allow your body the time it needs to fully recover. This is a crucial step in the process of achieving the results you want.
Will I Need to Have Sutures Removed?
We use very fine, self-dissolving sutures for this procedure which take approximately 3-4 weeks to disintegrate. This means no need for another visit in order to have them removed. Again, ensuring you limit your activity and prioritize rest over this time period means your labia will be healed by the time the sutures are gone.
Managing the Discomfort That Comes with Healing
Itchiness in the affected area is common as your skin heals. Avoid scratching it and apply a cold compress or cloth-covered ice pack for short periods of time to help with this. If itching persists it could be a sign of something more serious such as a bacterial or yeast infection and in this case please call into the office right away to set an appointment.
When can I have sex?
Wait for about one month or four weeks before you have sex again. Overexertion during the initial stages of healing can be detrimental.
Complete recovery from labiaplasty usually takes six weeks. At this time you’ll see the swelling has subsided and your scars have healed. You can return to your regular activities and sex life as long as you’re feeling up to it.
Choosing the Right Surgeon
Dr. Albert Andres is not only a highly awarded board-certified plastic surgeon but is considered one of the top plastic surgeons in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. With his considerable background and thirst for the newest techniques in plastic and reconstructive surgery, he possesses the skills needed for a delicate and detailed procedure such as labiaplasty. Dr. Andres is dedicated to working with each of his patients with personal care, competence, compassion, and respect while producing optimal and excellent results. Contact his office today to schedule your consultation and let Dr. Andres help you achieve your aesthetic goal.
