What to Expect during Labiaplasty Recovery
Women who experience discomfort or self-consciousness due to the appearance of their labia can benefit from labiaplasty at our Halifax, Nova Scotia cosmetic surgery practice. Labiaplasty is an increasingly popular procedure that can be performed under local anesthesia.
Here, our team at The Landings Surgical Centre discusses what patients can expect during labiaplasty recovery so they can resume normal life as soon as possible.
Labiaplasty: A Brief Overview
When women are born with large labial lips, it can interfere with their quality of life. For some, it is simply a matter of aesthetics. For others, it can cause discomfort during activities such as cycling, horseback riding, and even sexual intercourse. In fact, some women are unable to wear certain types of clothing such as swimsuits or tight pants.
A labiaplasty involves reducing excess tissue and reshaping the appearance of the labial lips. The treatment can be customized to the unique concerns of the individual.
Managing Pain and Discomfort
In most cases, patients will be provided with prescription pain medications immediately following labiaplasty. After the first few days, you will be able to taper the prescription medications and begin taking Tylenol until your post-operative pain diminishes.
To reduce discomfort, patients should avoid strenuous activities and apply cold compresses to the area in 20-minute increments.
Swelling and Bruising
Following your labiaplasty, swelling and bruising should be expected. This is a normal aspect of healing, and these side effects should diminish gradually over time. Inflammation can sometimes cause slight discomfort when urinating. To reduce this, run warm water over the affected area when you go to the bathroom.
When to Resume Activities
Individuals with sedentary jobs can return to work in just a few days. Typically, if a patient has the procedure performed on a Thursday or Friday, she can go back to the office on Monday. However, if your responsibilities are more demanding, you will most likely require more time off before returning to the workplace.
Any exercise should be completely avoided until one month after your labiaplasty. At this point, you should take your time and begin slowly. Do not try to do too much too soon. If you experience localized discomfort, waiting another two to three weeks may be recommended.
In addition, we recommend abstaining from sexual intercourse for at least four to six weeks after your labiaplasty. This will significantly reduce the potential for post-treatment complications.
What to Wear during Recovery
Because friction and rubbing can exacerbate post-operative discomfort, we recommend wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for the first few weeks after your plastic surgery. Tight or restrictive clothes can cause chafing and irritation, which can lengthen the healing process.
In addition, it is important to avoid using tampons during labiaplasty recovery. Until the healing process is complete, wear pads and liners instead.
Recovery Timeline and Results
In most cases, complete recovery following labiaplasty takes approximately six weeks. Keep in mind that the area can undergo many changes during that time.
Contact Us to Learn More
If you are interested in learning more about labiaplasty, or any of the other cosmetic treatments available at our practice, schedule a visit. Contact us online or call us at (866) 928-0023.