Labiaplasty is a surgery that involves the removal of drooping, overhanging inner vaginal lips (labia minora).
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), labiaplasty has been increasingly gaining popularity over the last few years. Plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides labiaplasty to patients in Atlanta, Buckhead, Georgia, and surrounding communities.
Post-Operative Swelling and Itching
In the initial recovery period, patients commonly experience inflammation and itching. The swelling generally peaks at two to three days after the surgery and then slowly resolves over the following weeks.
Itching is common after labiaplasty in the initial one to two weeks while the area is healing. It is essential for the patient to consult their surgeon when the itching is persistent. This could indicate a yeast or bacterial infection, or it could signal an allergic response to a medication.
The initial pain, swelling, and itching should resolve rapidly after one week.
At the End of the Initial Week
The inflammation should improve at this time, and the pain should be lessened. The patient should use ointments and pain medications as instructed by the surgeon.
The cosmetic surgeon will probably taper the pain meds at this time. The patient should continue to clean the site after using the restroom. It is normal to experience some itching around the stitches. They will likely have a post-op appointment during this time or in the following one or two days.
At the End of Two Weeks
At the end of two weeks, the most challenging phase of the labiaplasty will be over for the patient. The trimmed labia majora and labia minora will become recognizable again as the inflammation lessens.
Despite the procedure taking place only on the patient’s labia minora, the labia majora become swollen as well. The pain should have reduced majorly at this point, and the patient is ready to become more active. However, it is important to exercise caution. Returning to certain activities prematurely can undo the hard work and progress the patient has made thus far.
It is vital to remember that the area is still healing even though the patient may be feeling great. At this juncture, the patient is almost halfway through the six-week recovery period.
Precautions
The patient should avoid sexual activity and vigorous exercises during the early recovery phase. Daily short walks are essential for recovery. While mild activities that do not put a strain on the labia are acceptable, the patient should obtain clearance from their surgeon.
It is a good idea to continue to take arnica and bromelain supplements if the surgeon permits these for the patient. Arnica and bromelain are herbal supplements that can decrease the swelling and itching.
The labia may not appear completely normal. The tenderness may still exist and exacerbate when the area is under pressure. This occurrence is normal as well.
But the patient will not need pain pills any longer if the surgeon had prescribed these earlier. In case the patient still requires this degree of pain control, they should consult their surgeon to ensure that there is no infection in the site.
In case the surgeon places dissolvable sutures, they should have started to disappear. Certain stitches will remain, and the patient may be able to feel them. Itching in the incision areas will be normal by now. It is still vital for the patient to maintain good hygiene.
What to do in Case of Delayed Healing
At times, there may be a tiny opening along the incision line. This is known as delayed wound healing. The patient should make sure to inform their surgeon if this occurs.
They will likely treat this condition with some antibiotics and ointment. Plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, Buckhead, Georgia, and nearby areas for labiaplasty.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:
Serving patients in and around Atlanta, Buckhead, Roswell, Marietta, Georgia and surrounding areas.