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What to Expect for Labiaplasty Recovery

labiaplasty recovery

A study found that in the US, there were over 18,800 labiaplasty procedures done in 2021, which was a 36% increase from 2020. This shows a growing trend in this surgery, which isn’t as intense as other types of plastic surgery. Plus, this procedure can help boost your confidence, as it addresses minor cosmetic and physical issues with female genitalia.

If you have insecurities yourself, then this may be something you’re interested in. But before you proceed, you want to know what the labiaplasty recovery process entails. That way, you’re prepared for what’s ahead.

In this post, we’ll go over the labiaplasty recovery timeline in detail.

How Long Is Labiaplasty Recovery?

First of all, you should know that recovery time may vary between people since their bodies heal differently. Plus, there are things you do to speed up the process (we’ll discuss this later).


However, in general, you can expect healing to take a few months (up to six months for complete recovery). Most people return to work within a week, so actual labiaplasty downtime won’t be long.

The Healing Process for Labiaplasty

You now know that it can take a few months to recover from this procedure, but what does each step entail? And how long after your surgery can you expect these stages to happen?

Here’s a breakdown of the healing process.

Immediate Post-Op Recovery (First 72 Hours)

When you’re finished with surgery, you’ll have swelling and bruising around the labia. You’ll probably experience moderate discomfort or a stinging sensation, and you might have spotting or light bleeding too.

The surgeon will have put dissolvable sutures in place. In addition, you’ll need to use surgical dressings or absorbent pads.

During this time, you’ll need to rest and keep your hips elevated. That way, it’ll reduce swelling. To help it more, apply cold compressed (wrapped in cloth) intermittently for 150-20 minutes at a time.

Avoid wearing tight clothing, as it’ll irritate the surgery site. Loose and breathable cotton underwear will help too.

Keep the area clean by rinsing with warm water and then patting it dry gently. You shouldn’t use soaps or harsh cleaners, and don’t wipe either. Use a squirt bottle for cleaning after urinating instead.

Weeks 1 and 2

This is the early healing phase. While swelling might peak around days 3 and 4, it’ll gradually subside afterward.

The stitches will dissolve in these weeks, so you might have mild to moderate itching. You may also have discomfort when walking or sitting for extended periods.

To help with the swelling, keep using cold packs as needed and don’t do any strenuous activities, bending, or lifting. Don’t sit directly on hard surfaces either, and avoid baths, pools and hot tubs (stick to showers instead).

At this point, you should still refrain from using tampons or having any vaginal penetration. You should be able to resume work and most usual activities.

Weeks 3 and 4

Here, you’ll experience intermediate recovery; most of the stitches will be dissolved. You’ll see noticeable reduction in swelling, but light spotting or discharge can still occur, which is normal.

You can gradually resume light activity if your surgeon’s approved it. However, you should still refrain from sexual activity, tampons, and swimming.


This is also a crucial time to monitor for signs of infection, such as:

  • Increased redness
  • Pain
  • Discharge
  • Fever

Weeks 6 Through 8

This is the home stretch. During the full recovery period, the final results will start to take shape. The scar tissue will soften and blend into your natural skin tone.

You should only resume sexual activity and tampon use if your surgeon’s cleared you. Maintain hygiene and protect the area from friction during workouts or intercourse.

Your surgeon might’ve also recommended that you use scar creams or ointments. Use them as directed.

Do note that swelling can be persistent for months after surgery.

How to Speed Up Labiaplasty Recovery

Recovery won’t be a walk in the park, so you’ll want to know how to speed up the process if possible. Here are our top tips for not only a quicker recovery, but also smoother one.

Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions

Our top tip would be to follow your surgeon’s instructions religiously. If you adhere to wound care and medication instructions, then it’ll significantly reduce complications. As a result, healing will be quicker.

Use a Peri Bottle

A peri bottle is basically a squirt bottle. You should use it with warm water after urination so you don’t have to wipe and cause irritation and stinging in the area.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Hydration is already important in our daily lives, but it’s especially so post-op. It’ll help you heal better and faster.

You should also eat anti-inflammatory foods, such as:

  • Vitamin A
  • Vitamin C
  • Zinc
  • Omega-3s (leafy greens, berries, fish, nuts)

Take Arnica and Bromelain

If you’re approved for these medications, you should take arnica and bromelain. These supplements can help reduce bruising and swelling.

Avoid Smoking and Alcohol

Smoking can reduce your blood flow, and in turn, delay healing. It can also increase your infect risk.

As for alcohol, it can dehydrate you. In addition, it may interfere with medications.

Get Adequate Rest and Sleep

Sleep is when our body repairs itself, so get adequate sleep to help with tissue repair and boost your immune system. To alleviate pressure on the area, sleep on your back with a pillow under your knees.

Signs to Watch For

With any surgical procedure is the risk of infection and complications. You should contact your surgeon immediately if you notice any of the following:

  • Fever over 100.4F
  • Foul-smelling discharge
  • Significant bleeding (more than just spotting)
  • Sudden or intense pain
  • Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling elsewhere)

Labiaplasty Recovery Shouldn’t Be Too Difficult

Labiaplasty is a relatively safe procedure that can boost your confidence regarding your genital area. 

As you can see, labiaplasty recovery is manageable, as long as you take proper care of yourself. In less than two months, you can gain ensure optimal results and avoid complications.

Schedule an appointment with us now if you’re interested in getting labiaplasty. Dr. Valdez has over 16 years of experience and is supported by an excellent team.

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