Labiaplasty is an elective surgery performed by a Board-Certified plastic surgeon to reduce the size and appearance of the labia minora. When the labia minora becomes larger than the protective labia majora, it can be painful to exercise and unsightly when wearing tight clothes such as a bathing suit or yoga pants.
There are a variety of conditions that can cause this to happen, but the methods for correcting it are highly successful. However, many patients who undergo the procedure are more concerned about labiaplasty after surgery.
Is labiaplasty painful?
While labiaplasty is considered a minor surgery and can be performed under a local anesthetic in some cases, it does still involve cutting into the labia minora, which often results in some pain and swelling following the procedure.
A qualified plastic surgeon may prescribe medication during the week up to the day of the labiaplasty surgery to reduce bruising and swelling afterward. Pain prescriptions may also be provided after the surgery, but often over-the-counter alternatives work quite well for labiaplasty pain.
Recovery after labiaplasty.
Labiaplasty recovery time depends on the type of surgery performed and a variety of other factors, including how well the patient takes care of the site in the days following. In most cases, patients can return to normal activity within one to two weeks.
The incision site will still need care for several weeks afterward. It is generally recommended that patients should abstain from sexual intercourse for three to six weeks following the procedure.
Your plastic surgeon will be able to provide you with more accurate timelines based on your rate of recovery.
What to expect.
The first day of your labiaplasty surgery recovery, you may notice a significant amount of swelling, even in areas that were not touched during the procedure. This is perfectly natural and is expected. Again, over-the-counter drugs in addition to a cold compress can help to reduce swelling, pain, and bruising.
You may notice some blood-tinged drainage from the surgical site. This is also normal. Your surgeon may recommend an antibiotic ointment to put over the wound to aid in healing.
The second day of your labiaplasty after surgery will probably bring more of the same. Some patients even notice more swelling than the previous day. There is no cause for alarm. You may notice fluctuation in the amount of swelling as well as asymmetrical swelling.
From day three on, you should start to see a reduction in the pain, swelling, and bruising. However, your labia minora will most likely still be quite swollen and may not return to its intended size for another week or so.
If you experience unbearable pain during the first week, or if you encounter a foul odor, pus, excessive drainage, or fever, contact your surgeon immediately to have your concerns addressed.
Labiaplasty recovery tips.
In addition to ice, pain medications, and antibiotic ointment, there are several things you can do to aid your healing process and speed recovery time—although you do not want to rush the recovery.
Throughout the duration of your recovery, you should wear loose clothing that will not irritate the incision site. This is one of the primary causes for slow recovery.
You may also experience some stinging at the incision site when urinating. It is recommended that you purchase a small spray bottle before the surgery and fill it with distilled or purified water.
Spraying the site after urinating will help to dilute the sting and aids in keeping the wound clean.
Getting started.
Labiaplasty surgery is obviously a very private undertaking. Many women feel more at ease having a female doctor conduct the consultation and surgery.
Dr. Inzhili K. Kitto is a Richmond-based, Board-Certified plastic surgeon who excels at putting her clients at ease. During the consultation, she will examine your labia minora to determine the best surgical technique needed, and will make recommendations to provide you with the best possible outcome.
Call today.
Do away with the pain and embarrassment a swollen labia minora can bring. Call Dr. Kitto today at 804-294-1777, or complete a consultation request form on her website.