Labiaplasty is a vaginal rejuvenation procedure during which the length of the labia minora is reduced. The cosmetic surgery procedure is carried out in the outpatient department and patients can go home the same day. The surgery is done under anesthesia so if you are undergoing the procedure make sure to have a friend or family member with you who can drive you home later.
While a labiaplasty is a relatively minor surgery with extremely good results it still requires a recovery period before you can be completely back to normal. Here is a comprehensive guide to everything you need to know to speed up your recovery process after a labiaplasty.
Labiaplasty – What to Do and What to Avoid
The procedure could be done either under local anesthesia or general anesthesia. Your surgeon will decide which one is best depending on your case. If you have a preference you can always talk to your doctor about it a few days before the surgery. After the procedure, you will feel some pain and discomfort, this is normal and will pass in a few days. Follow these tips to help you along the way:
1. Urinating will be a little painful for a few days after the surgery. A stream of warm running water on the area while peeing will help to ease some of the discomfort.
2. You will experience some amount of swelling and bruising in the area but this is normal. Use an ice pack or a pack of frozen peas to ice the area to help ease the pain and reduce the swelling.
3. Tight fitting underwear could be uncomfortable and even painful for the first few weeks. Wear undergarments that are loose so that you can be more comfortable.
4. Your doctor will advise you against the use of tampons for a while after the surgery. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully. Insertion of a tampon could cause irritation, infection and even trauma to the area. To avoid any of these complications use sanitary pads or liners for as long as your doctor says it is required.
5. Sexual intercourse can also lead to trauma of the area and needs to be avoided for at least six weeks after surgery. Your doctor will let you know when it is safe to resume normal sexual activity. Make sure that you and your partner take it slow and that you are comfortable with the experience and not in any pain.
6. Most normal activities including driving and going back to work can be resumed three days after the procedure. Consult with your doctor first to be on the safe side and be sure about what you can and can’t do.
A labiaplasty is a minimally invasive procedure with excellent results and a quick recovery time. By following these guidelines your recovery should be seamless and have you back to normal soon.
Dr. Sadove is a nationally recognized plastic surgeon with over seventeen years of experience. If you would like to know more about labiaplasty plastic surgery, contact us at our center and we will guide you through the process.
