Labiaplasty, a surgical procedure that alters the labia minora (inner folds of the vulva) or labia majora (outer folds of the vulva), can produce noticeable changes in the appearance and sometimes function of the labia. Here’s what you can generally expect in terms of labia surgery before and after the procedure:
Before Labiaplasty:
- Consultation: Before undergoing labiaplasty, you will have a consultation with a qualified surgeon. During this consultation, you will discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations for the procedure. Your surgeon will evaluate your anatomy and provide recommendations based on your individual needs.
- Preoperative Planning: You will receive instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, including any preoperative tests, medications, or dietary restrictions.
After Labiaplasty:
- Immediate Postoperative Period (Days 1-7):
- Swelling and Discomfort: Swelling and discomfort are common in the first few days following surgery. You may be prescribed pain medications to manage any pain or discomfort.
- Bruising: Some bruising may be present, but it should gradually subside.
- Restricted Activities: You will be advised to avoid strenuous activities and sexual intercourse during the initial recovery period.
- Follow-Up Appointments: You will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress.
- Weeks 2-4:
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising continue to improve during this time.
- Return to Normal Activities: Most patients can gradually return to normal daily activities, although strenuous exercise should still be avoided.
- Scarring: Scars will begin to form but will continue to mature and fade over time.
- Resumption of Sexual Activity: Your surgeon will provide guidance on when it’s safe to resume sexual activity.
- Months 2-6:
- Final Results: By this stage, you will start to see the final results of your labiaplasty. Scarring will continue to improve in appearance.
- Sensitivity: Sensitivity in the treated area may continue to normalize.
- Follow-Up Appointments: You may have additional follow-up appointments with your surgeon to assess your long-term progress.
- Beyond 6 Months:
- Fully Healed: By this point, you should be fully healed, and the appearance of the labia should have stabilized.
- Scarring: Scars will continue to fade over the course of a year or more, becoming less noticeable with time.
- Long-Term Satisfaction: Most patients experience long-term satisfaction with the results of labiaplasty.
It’s important to note that individual experiences may vary, and the healing process can differ from person to person. The final outcome of labiaplasty may take time to fully appreciate as swelling subsides and scars mature. Communication with your surgeon is essential throughout the process to address any concerns and ensure that your goals are met.
Dr. Richard Young is a board certified cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon
As one of the nation’s leading innovators in aesthetic surgery of the face, hand, breast and body, and a pioneer of reconstructive surgery and stem cell procedures, Dr. Richard Young is certified by the Board of Plastic Surgery and the Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery.
by Richard Young
Reviewed by Richard Young
approved by Richard Young
Written by Dr Richard Young. The article was written and approved by Dr Richard Young, who specializes in plastic surgery.
The web page content is prepared to inform the visitor. The information on the page can never replace a physician’s treatment or consultation. The content was prepared and published by Dr Richard Young, who is trained and specialized in plastic surgery. The content is based on the education and experience of Dr Richard Young. Copying the content is prohibited.
