What Is Labiaplasty?

Also known as Labia Reduction, Labiaplasty is a cosmetic gynaecology surgical procedure which addresses concerns affecting the labia. This typically involves reducing the size and improving the position of the labia (the folds of skin around the opening of the vagina).  

For many women, having abnormal labia can result in discomfort while exercising or during sexual intercourse. This can lead to self-consciousness and may lead to them avoiding certain activities. Atypical labia can be caused by genetics, ageing, hormonal changes or pregnancy and childbirth.

Labiaplasty is a simple procedure which can have a transformative impact. The procedure can be performed under local or general anaesthetic and takes 1-2 hours.

Understanding the Labiaplasty healing time and recovery process is important when considering this procedure is important so you can be prepared. 

How Long is Labiaplasty Recovery Time?

Although the labia is a very sensitive area of the body, it heals relatively quickly and Labiaplasty healing time is reasonably short – usually 2-4 weeks.

Your surgeon will give you Labiaplasty recovery and aftercare instructions for during this time, and it is important that you follow these to ensure you don’t experience any complications and to achieve your desired results.

If you have any questions or concerns during your labia surgery recovery time, you will have direct 24 hour access to our specialist nurses who will be able to assist you. 

Labiaplasty Recovery Week By Week

It is important to understand the timeline of labia reduction recovery so you know what to expect at each stage of healing. Your surgeon will also walk you through this during your consultation and show you Labiaplasty before-and-after photos so you can see what healing may look like at different times. 

Days 1-3 following surgery

• You will feel some discomfort
• Some swelling and bruising will be apparent
• For the first week of Labiaplasty recovery, it is normal to experience some itching
• Any necessary pain medication will have been provided by your medical team
• You will need to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection
• It is important to rest to aid your healing 

1 week after surgery

• You will have a follow-up appointment with our specialist nurses
• They will examine your incisions and ensure you are healing well
• They will answer any questions and will give you more information on how to care for the surgical site going forward
• Both labia majora and labia minora reduction surgery involve dissolvable sutures so you won’t have any stitches to remove
• The bruising and swelling will be starting to go down 

2-3 weeks after surgery

• Healing will be progressing well
• Bruising and swelling will resolve completely in this time
• Your dissolvable stitches will still be in place so your final result will not be fully apparent yet
• You will be able to go back to all daily activities at this stage, but should still avoid exercising and sexual intercourse 

1 month after surgery

• 4-6 weeks into your labia reduction recovery, you will meet with your surgeon to discuss your healing and results
• Dissolvable stitches will be starting to dissolve, and your final results will be starting to appear
• Your surgeon will be able to answer any questions about your ongoing recovery
• 6 weeks after surgery you will be able to begin exercising and sexual intercourse again 

6-8 weeks after surgery

• Your dissolvable stitches will have disappeared entirely and your final results will be showing
• After your sutures dissolve
• You will feel back to normal and taking part in your normal activities again
• You will be enjoying the results of your Labiaplasty 

Do’s and Don’ts After Labiaplasty

Your surgeon will have discussed your Labiaplasty aftercare instructions during your consultation, and you will receive a written reminder when you are discharged following your procedure. 

What You Should Do After Your Labiaplasty

• Keep the area clean and dry to avoid infection
• Wear loose clothing made from natural fibres to avoid irritation and friction
• Sleep on your back with a pillow under your lower back to reduce swelling and prevent irritation
• Place an ice pack over your underwear for 20 minutes, with a 20 minute break to aid healing and reduce discomfort
• Eat a healthy balanced diet including protein and vegetables to assist with healing 

What Not to Do After Labiaplasty

• Strenuous exercise and sexual activity should be avoided for the first 6 weeks after surgery to prevent strain being placed on the surgical site
• Tampons shouldn’t be used for 4-6 weeks after Labiaplasty. It is recommended to use sanitary towels during your first period following surgery
• Hair removal should be paused during your Labiaplasty healing period. Methods such as shaving, waxing or hair removal creams may irritate the area
• Avoid taking baths as submerging the area in water for long periods may lead to infection. Taking showers will keep the area clean, and it will be easier to keep dry 

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