Labiaplasty recovery is the period following labiaplasty — a surgical procedure that reduces and/or reshapes a woman’s inner labia (labia minora).
Although it is not frequently discussed, the problem of having extra-long inner labia can be both physically bothersome and emotionally embarrassing for many women. Less pronounced labia can help women feel more confident and make them more comfortable in underwear, bathing suits, and other clothing. Labiaplasty can also address issues related to vaginal dryness and incontinence.
During your labiaplasty recovery process, you will experience some bruising, swelling, and light spotting. For the most part, the entire labiaplasty recovery timeline is relatively short and relaxed. Patients should take it easy and focus on maintaining healthy habits and getting plenty of rest.
Let’s take a closer look at the labiaplasty recovery timeline and what you should expect during each phase of healing. But first, here’s a closer look at what labiaplasty actually entails.
What Is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty is the reduction or alternation of the inner labia. Rarely, the outer labia can also be altered. Most of the time, it is the inner labia that patients want to amend.
The main reason patients want to alter their inner labia is comfort. Extra-long inner labia can be uncomfortable, especially in underwear, bikini bottoms, or tight jeans.
Patients are also interested in shortening their inner labia to improve the labia’s appearance, increase sexual pleasure, and improve their overall confidence.
Labiaplasty Recovery Timeline
The majority of patients require a week off from work. Here’s what to expect during the labiaplasty recovery process.
Directly After Surgery
Make sure to rest as much as possible directly after your surgery. Make yourself comfortable at home, and get some help with meals, childcare, and other chores so that you can prioritize sleep and rest.
You will experience some discomfort and swelling as well as some light bleeding. Use your anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications as prescribed.
First 1 to 3 Days
During the first few days after surgery, you will have some continued pain and soreness. There will be light bruising and swelling as well, and you may experience additional light spotting also. This spotting should decrease with each passing day.
After about the third day, you should be able to start walking. Being mobile after your surgery (nothing too strenuous) will aid in your recovery and increase circulation. Cold compresses can help to reduce pain.
1 Week After Labiaplasty
Continue resting and getting plenty of sleep during the first week. Most patients are able to return to work after one week in recovery. Continue to avoid strenuous activities, but do get up and walk around frequently to promote circulation.
4 to 6 Weeks Post-Surgery
During the first three or four weeks after surgery, you should not smoke or drink alcohol. Be sure to drink lots of water each day, and eat a healthy diet.
In regards to your labiaplasty after four weeks, you may be able to return to your regular exercise routine at this time. However, talk to Dr. Smita about this to be sure your incision sites are healed well enough.
Patients are usually able to return to tampon use and intercourse around four to six weeks after surgery as well. Some residual swelling may persist throughout this time.
6 Months After Labiaplasty
Most patients will not experience any symptoms aside from light swelling by two months post-surgery. And by the six month mark, all of the remaining swelling should be gone, and you will be fully healed.
* Keep in mind that this is the labiaplasty recovery timeline for labiaplasty alone. If labiaplasty is part of a combination procedure such as a mommy makeover, the recovery timeline for a mommy makeover may be different.
How Painful Is Labiaplasty Recovery?
While you will experience some discomfort and soreness, which will peak in the first few days after the procedure, labiaplasty is not generally known as a painful procedure. The pain should be dull and localized and should subside within a week.
One good way to understand the discomfort levels you should expect after labiaplasty is to read some labiaplasty recovery testimonials from patients who have actually experienced the procedure and subsequent recovery.
Labiaplasty Recovery Process Tips
Help speed up your recovery from labiaplasty with these useful tips.
- Restrict your activity level. Take it easy for the first few weeks.
- Ask for help at home. Arrange for childcare and have a friend or family member stop by to assist with meals, chores, and errands.
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol after surgery.
- Eat a healthy diet full of protein and fiber.
- When you are cleared to exercise, start taking short, frequent walks to promote circulation.
- Take your medications as prescribed.
- Rest and get plenty of sleep. When you’re not sleeping, this is a great time to catch up on your favorite TV shows, immerse yourself in a good novel, or chat with friends over the phone. Relaxation is the order of the day.
FAQ: Labiaplasty Recovery
How long does it take for vagina to look normal after labiaplasty?
The main reason why the vaginal area may not look “normal” right after labiaplasty is due to swelling. Slight bruising and bleeding may be initially present as well. However, all of these symptoms will diminish quickly.
The swelling will take the longest to go away, and sometimes, patients still have a bit of swelling even six months out from surgery.
Still, patients should feel confident with the appearance of their labia right away, and the overall look should be back to “normal” after about four to six weeks. This is generally the point at which patients are able to safely resume intercourse as well.
How long does labiaplasty swelling last?
Residual swelling from labiaplasty may last up to six months. However, the majority of the swelling you experience should be gone after the first four to six weeks.
Are there side effects after labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty surgery side effects may include soreness, swelling, light bleeding, and bruising. Most side effects should go away within one week.
Contact Our Office Today to Schedule Your Labiaplasty Consultation
Are you considering labiaplasty? Dr. Smita R. Ramanadham is a female double board-certified plastic surgeon performing labiaplasty and other cosmetic procedures for patients throughout New Jersey, NYC, and the Tri-state areas.
To learn more about the labiaplasty procedure and find out if you’re a good candidate for surgery, contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ramanadham.
