What to Expect After Labiaplasty: Week 3

So, it has been two weeks since your labiaplasty procedure was performed. The most difficult part of your labiaplasty recovery is now behind you. Your trimmed labia minora and labia majora are once again recognizable since the swelling has lessened. Even though the surgery was only on your labia minora, the labia majora do swell as well. Your pain should have decreased significantly and now you are ready to become more active. But hold on for one moment. You do not want to undo any of the hard work and progress you have made thus far by prematurely returning to certain activities. Remember, you are still healing although you may be feeling great. You are nearly halfway through the six-week recovery period.

Yes, swelling will still be present on your labia. This is absolutely 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. 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.

Your labia may still NOT look entirely normal. 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. If absorbable stitches were used, they should have started disappearing. 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.

Your swelling will be improving but it will still be present. Your labia will continue to feel firm. 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/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.

You are now at the end of week three. No, you cannot yet have sexual intercourse. The incisions are still considered fresh and can open up with aggressive friction. 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/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, you should call your surgeon.

Learn what to expect in the first week after surgery.