Women seek labiaplasty for many reasons — from incontinence and vaginal dryness to lack of self-confidence and a desire to be more comfortable in intimate settings. The goal of this procedure is to make the inner vaginal lips (the labia minora) more flush with the outer skin folds (the labia majora).
Many women find this appearance more pleasing and comfortable. It’s not uncommon for women to have enlarged inner labia because of aging or as a result of past pregnancies and childbirth. Some women simply have a genetic propensity for this physical feature.
Regardless of why you are interested in this procedure, before moving ahead, it’s important to have a complete picture of the surgical process and what to expect before and after labiaplasty. Once you understand the surgery and are cleared as a patient, labiaplasty can provide numerous benefits.
In this article, we’ll go over what you can generally expect from labiaplasty before and after the surgery.
What Is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is a type of vaginal rejuvenation plastic surgery. It is designed for the patient who feels their inner labia are too large. This procedure decreases the size of the inner labia so that they are flush with the outer labia majora.
All patients have a unique anatomy, which requires a specific surgical approach. Prior to your surgery, Dr. Smita will evaluate you with a physical exam, look over your medical history, and discuss your goals with you. Each patient is taken on a case by case basis, and depending on your unique situation, a surgery will be designed to cater to your needs and give you the outcome you desire.
Before Labiaplasty
If you want to undergo labiaplasty, your first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Smita. This appointment will be equal parts learning about the surgery and being interviewed by Dr. Smita (regarding your goals and medical history). You will also be able to see labiaplasty before and after pictures to give you a better idea of what this procedure can realistically accomplish.
Dr. Smita will evaluate your medical history and examine you before clearing you for surgery. In some cases, patients will need to undergo further blood labs or other medical tests before they can move forward with the procedure.
If you are considered a good candidate, you will be given a clear picture of what you can expect from the procedure. Then, you can decide if it’s right for you. If you choose to move forward, your surgery date will be scheduled.
After Labiaplasty
Labiaplasty is an outpatient procedure, so patients won’t need to stay in a hospital overnight. Instead, you’ll be able to go home right after the procedure. The majority of patients should expect to take about one week off from work.
Once at home, it is critical that you follow Dr. Smita’s aftercare instructions. You can expect swelling, some light bruising, and soreness around the treatment area.
What to Avoid After Labiaplasty
After labiaplasty, be sure to avoid strenuous activities. This means you’ll need to put your workout regimen on hold for at least one month. Once you get the go-ahead from Dr. Smita, you can slowly resume exercise.
You must also refrain from intercourse and tampon use for at least four to six weeks after surgery. Again, Dr. Smita will tell you when you can have intercourse and use tampons again.
Finally, avoid alcohol and smoking after any type of surgery, including labiaplasty. Alcohol is a blood thinner and may complicate your recovery. Likewise, smoking reduces your blood oxygen levels, augments your blood pressure, and puts stress on your heart — all of which may put your health at risk as you recover.
Tips for Your Recovery
To reduce pain after a labiaplasty procedure, use cold compresses. The best way to do this is to put a cold pack on the treatment area (over your underwear) for twenty minutes, then take it off for another twenty minutes. You can repeat this sequence several times for pain relief.
In addition, Dr. Smita may prescribe medications, including a pain reliever to help with discomfort. Take your medications as directed.
Finally, remember to eat a healthy diet throughout your recovery. Focus on protein as this will help your body stay strong as you heal. Lean protein sources like poultry, fish, beef, eggs, and dairy products like cottage cheese and Greek yogurt are excellent. Also, be sure to include lots of vegetables and fruits, and drink plenty of water.
Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Smita
Female board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Smita Ramanadham has helped many women improve their comfort and confidence after labiaplasty. We invite patients who have been considering this procedure to call today to book an appointment with Dr. Ramanadham.
At your appointment, we will be happy to answer your questions and concerns. You will be able to request to see photos before and after labiaplasty performed by Dr. Smita as well. Because of the sensitive and intimate nature of this type of plastic surgery, we do not keep images on our website, but a gallery is made available for an in-person visit.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation appointment.
References
https://www.plasticsurgery.org/news/blog/what-to-expect-at-every-stage-of-your-labiaplasty
