Three Things to Expect During Your Labiaplasty Recovery
Recovery is key to any satisfying cosmetic procedure. This is true for everything from a facelift to a breast augmentation. Remember, a labiaplasty is no different from these other aesthetic treatments. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning it is quick and simple. The recovery period, though, is a vital time to take care of yourself and ensure healing goes smoothly.
Three Common Things to Expect from Your Labiaplasty Recovery
Mild Pain
The labiaplasty is normally performed using general anesthesia, or a local anesthesia with IV sedation, meaning you will not feel a thing during the procedure. Once you get home, and the anesthetic starts to wear off, some mild to moderate tenderness and discomfort can be expected. Dr. Vitenas will prescribe the necessary pain medications for the first several days. For many patients, over-the-counter pain medications are all they need. Take it easy, for the first 24 to 72 hours, and you will find the post-op discomfort quickly diminishes.
Swelling and Bruising
Your labiaplasty is a major surgical procedure. For this reason, you can expect minor swelling and bruising to occur. The labia may be red and bruised for a week or more. Swelling can cause discomfort, and in rare cases, make urinating difficult. It is also common to note one side of the labia is more swollen than the other; this is normal. Icing the area, 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off, can help to reduce swelling. Avoid tight clothing for the first few days, as the area heals. Be patient, but keep in mind that any swelling or bruising concerns should be brought to your surgeon’s attention for their advice.
No Sex
You are probably going to be very excited to show off your new, contoured labia to your partner. However, sexual intercourse must be postponed for at least four to six weeks, giving the area time to heal properly. This holds true even if you start to feel like your old self sooner. The labia are delicate, and a labiaplasty is major surgical procedure, so take care of the healing tissue and wait until you have your doctor’s thumbs-up before resuming sexual activity.
During your labiaplasty consultation, Dr. Vitenas will carefully explain everything that you can expect before, during, and after surgery. He will prescribe the needed medications, including pain meds and an antibiotic, which will need to be filled prior to the day of surgery. Finally, armed with detailed recovery instructions, Dr. Vitenas will get you ready for a successful and satisfying labiaplasty procedure!
Schedule your labiaplasty consultation at Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery by calling our office at (281) 606-0007 or fill out our online Contact Us form for more information.