Knowing how to manage labiaplasty swelling can make your recovery smoother and more comfortable. Below, we outline what you can expect in terms of swelling after labiaplasty, as well as some effective strategies to minimize swelling and recover faster.
Labiaplasty Recovery Overview
Aftercare instructions following labiaplasty will be provided by your plastic surgeon. Always follow these instructions first.
Common Labiaplasty Symptoms
After labiaplasty, patients typically experience a range of symptoms as part of the healing process. Swelling is the most prominent, followed by some mild discomfort and light bruising.
You must take it easy during these first few weeks. The area may be somewhat sore (your surgeon can prescribe pain medication) and itchy or numb-feeling. These symptoms should disappear within a few weeks.
Use ice as much as your surgeon recommends, and try to get a good night’s sleep every night. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions after surgery.
What Not to Do During Labiaplasty Recovery
To ensure a smooth labiaplasty recovery, there are certain activities and behaviors to avoid after labiaplasty. These include:
- Sexual activity
- Tampon use
- Vigorous physical activity (anything that raises your heart rate significantly)
- Heavy lifting
- Excess alcohol
- Smoking
- Straining or stretching the groin area
Additionally, sitting for extended periods can increase pressure on the surgical area, so try to lie down or use a donut cushion when seated.
Labiaplasty Swelling
While excessive swelling may be a red flag, regular swelling is a natural and expected part of the recovery process after any type of cosmetic surgery or other surgical procedure. The tissue in the labia is particularly delicate and tends to respond with noticeable swelling after surgery. Initial swelling usually peaks about 48 to 72 hours after your labiaplasty procedure.
If you experience labiaplasty swelling on one side only, excessive swelling accompanied by pain in the vaginal lips (that isn’t helped with medication pain control), swelling and pain that extends from the labia minora to the labia majora, or other worrisome symptoms, be sure to contact your surgeon right away. They may be able to give you something to reduce labiaplasty swelling and help you have a smoother recovery timeline.
Tips for Minimizing Labiaplasty Swelling
1. Use a Cold Compress
Applying ice or cold compresses will help constrict the blood vessels surrounding the labia minora and treatment area. This can reduce inflammation and provide relief from swelling and discomfort.
Just be sure to only follow the directions for cold compress use provided by plastic surgeons. It is possible to damage your skin by applying ice directly to the skin or using it too often or for too long.
2. Elevate Your Pelvic Area
Just as elevating your feet can reduce swelling in your legs, elevating your pelvic area can help alleviate labiaplasty swelling. Especially for the first few days of your labiaplasty recovery timeline, be sure your pelvic area is slightly lifted when sleeping or reclining.
3. Wear Loose, Comfortable Clothing
You want to avoid tight-fitting clothes during your recovery. Naturally, after removing the excess skin and excess labia tissue from the labia minora, this area will be very sensitive. Even a slight rubbing on the area from tight underwear or leggings can cause discomfort and complications.
4. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water. This will help to flush out toxins and reduce the fluid retention that can lead to swelling. Aim to drink at least eight glasses of water every day. You should also plan to avoid consuming excess sodium (salt), which can cause fluid retention as well.
5. Avoid Hot Baths and Showers
While it may be tempting to soak in a hot bubble bath after surgical procedures like labiaplasty, this isn’t a good idea. Lukewarm showers are often recommended, though always follow your particular surgeon’s instructions. Excess heat in your surgical area can cause complications.
6. Follow Your Surgeon’s Directions
Lastly, always follow what your surgeon wants you to do over everything else. As stated, there are many different ways to undergo labiaplasty and many different approaches to recovery. Not only that, but every patient is unique.
Your surgeon will give you a recovery breakdown following your labiaplasty surgery. In terms of swelling labiaplasty recovery instructions usually include details about using ice, upping your intake of water, and reducing sodium. But no matter what, keep your instructions close at-hand and follow them to the letter.
FAQs: Labiaplasty Surgery
How long does labiaplasty swelling last?
The truth is, many patients have labiaplasty swelling 2 weeks after surgery and beyond. Swelling is usually the first major symptom to appear (along with bruising and soreness) and the final symptom to disappear. Some patients may have residual swelling for several months after surgery.
How much does labiaplasty cost?
The labiaplasty cost you pay will inevitably be different than the labiaplasty cost someone else pays. All patients have varying degrees of complexity concerning their procedures, and different surgeons charge differently based on their experience and expertise. We recommend booking a consultation for details about the cost of your surgery.
What if I end up with a botched labiaplasty?
Botched labiaplasty surgery is rare but can occasionally happen. If you get results you aren’t happy with, be sure to contact your surgeon as soon as possible and learn what your options are. Laser therapy, steroid injections, revision labiaplasty, or labiaplasty scar revision surgery may be required to correct the problem.
Set Up Your Consultation Appointment Today
If you are considering labiaplasty and want to find out more details about the procedure, as well as if you are a good candidate, please contact us today to schedule a consultation appointment with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Cynthia Diehl.
We look forward to hearing from you!
