Labiaplasty Recovery Timeline (Week 3): What to Expect

When you arrive at week three of labiaplasty recovery, the most difficult part of your post-surgery healing is behind you. At this time, the swelling around your labia majora and trimmed labia minora may be less pronounced, but is likely still noticeable. and your genitals are once again recognizable.

By three weeks post-labiaplasty, your pain should decrease significantly, and you may be feeling ready to become more active. But remember, full recovery takes six weeks. So, while most people can resume normal activities by week three, there are still some activities you should avoid—namely vaginal penetrative sex. You should be able to resume that after week six with your doctor's OK.

This article explains the labiaplasty recovery timeline at three weeks.

Day 15-16

In the early days of the third week after labiaplasty, labial swelling is still common and normal. Therefore, it may be prudent to continue taking arnica and bromelain supplements if your surgeon has permitted you to take these. Arnica and bromelain are herbal supplements that can help reduce inflammation and swelling. They are commonly used after surgical procedures to reduce inflammation and swelling which in turn helps reduce pain and improve healing.

At three weeks, tenderness may still be present, more so when any pressure is applied to the area. This is also entirely normal. However, you should no longer require narcotic pain medication if it was prescribed to you initially. If you still need this level of pain control, then you should speak with your surgeon to make sure there is no infection in the area.

Patience is important for your recovery. Daily walking is an important part of your recovery. Activities that do not put pressure on the labia are acceptable but obtain clearance from your surgeon.

If absorbable stitches were used, they should have started disappearing by three weeks. Some stitches will remain and you may be able to feel them. This is also quite normal. Itching at the incision sites is normal. Maintaining good hygiene is still essential.

Day 17-18

Midway through the third week, your swelling will be improving but it will still be present. Your labia will continue to feel firm, and you may still be able to feel any external stitches.

Sometimes there may be a small opening along the incision line. This is called delayed wound healing. If this occurs, do not panic. It will eventually heal with some special treatment and attention. Make sure you tell your surgeon if this occurs. The likely solution will be to apply triple antibiotic ointment after cleaning at least twice daily. Make sure you walk daily.

Day 19-21

You are now at the end of week three in your labiaplasty recovery timeline. Do not yet expect your labia to be back to normal or back to your baseline yet. You will still have swelling. You still may not be wearing any tight clothing or underwear if you are sensitive to the pressure.

Ointments, pain medication, and herbal supplements should be used as directed by your surgeon. Continue cleansing your incisions with the spray bottle after using the restroom. You should continue walking daily.

Three weeks down! You are halfway done with your recovery. Depending on the type of labiaplasty you had done, your surgeon may allow you to participate in certain activities.

As mentioned during weeks one and two, if you have any unbearable pain, foul odor, pus, excessive drainage, fever, or any other concern at three weeks, you should call your surgeon.