What to Expect during Your Labiaplasty Recovery
Vaginal rejuvenation, or labiaplasty, can eliminate excess skin associated with an elongated labia resulting from childbirth, trauma, or some other cause. This excess tissue can cause discomfort when using tampons, during sexual intercourse, and even when wearing tight clothing. In addition to the physical discomfort, patients may experience lowered self-confidence as well. Although the procedure takes just one to two hours, full labiaplasty recovery may take six weeks or more. During your consultation at our Fairfield, CT, office, Dr. Anya Kishinevsky will provide you with a detailed overview of what to expect during your recovery.
Labiaplasty Recovery Timeline
Here is what you can expect during your labiaplasty recovery.
First 48 Hours
You are typically released a couple hours after your surgery is complete. You should have a family member or friend drive you home and stay with you overnight. Dr. Kishinevsky and her staff will provide you with pain medication, antibiotics, and detailed instructions to follow. You cannot shower for the first 48 hours after your procedure. Although you must limit your activity, Dr. Kishinevsky recommends walking as soon as possible. The increased blood flow will help to improve your healing.
One to Two Weeks Post-op
Dr. Kishinevsky uses dissolvable stitches, which should dissolve within 10 days or so. It is imperative that you keep the incisions clean and dry to avoid infection. You may experience some pain, swelling, and bruising during this time, but it usually subsides by the end of the second week post-op. Dr. Kishinevsky schedules weekly follow-up visits with patients to ensure your incisions are healing properly and to address any concerns you may have. You can expect to return to work within one to two weeks after your procedure, depending on your pain level and the functions of your job.
Four to Six Weeks Post-op
For a full four to six weeks, you cannot use tampons, swim, or have sexual intercourse. You must also limit your physical activity. You should not lift heavy objects or participate in other strenuous exercise. Based on your healing progress at your weekly appointments, Dr. Kishinevsky can provide you with an accurate timeline to reincorporate exercise and sex back into your life. Typically, after six weeks, you can resume sexual activity provided it does not cause you any discomfort.
Two to Three Months Post-op
Your scars may appear swollen and red for two to three months after your procedure. This is normal. With proper incision care, they will begin to fade. Dr. Kishinevsky carefully places incisions so that they lay discreetly within your labia’s natural folds. This helps make your incisions incredibly discreet. As your scars fade, you will begin to see improved labial contours.
Learn More about the Labiaplasty Procedure and Recovery
To ensure a speedy recovery and minimal scar visibility, you must follow Dr. Kishinevsky’s post-operative instructions to the letter. Doing so will also reduce your risk of complications such as infection. To learn more about the labiaplasty procedure and what you can expect during the recovery period, contact our plastic surgery office today.
