While the general public has become much more comfortable discussing their cosmetic concerns and their interest in plastic surgery, there are some topics that still feel sensitive. Some procedures, such as labiaplasty, aren’t talked about nearly as often as others, like breast augmentation. For this reason, women who could benefit from labiaplasty may have questions that they just aren’t asking. We have an idea what those questions might be and will answer them here. 

What is Labiaplasty? Is it Surgery?

Labiaplasty is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that modifies the labia majora and labia minora. The reason women may have this done is to improve physical and sexual comfort and also to refine the appearance of the genital area. When the labia are elongated, they may be uncomfortably visible through certain types of clothing, such as yoga pants or a bathing suit. 

The labiaplasty procedure is an outpatient surgery that is comfortable with only a local anesthetic. During the procedure, Dr. Regina Rosenthal makes precise incisions to adjust and trim tissue to create a new, symmetrical size. Fine sutures are inserted to close the incisions. The entire procedure takes 1 to 2 hours. The patient is awake but is not in pain. 

How Long Does it Take to Recover from Labiaplasty?

Full recovery from this procedure can take about 6 weeks. However, patients regain comfort and mobility relatively quickly. Swelling and soreness are expected side effects of labiaplasty surgery. These are managed with appropriate medication as discussed before surgery and in the post-operative care instructions. In 2 to 4 days, swelling and discomfort are usually improved enough for the patient to go back to work and other light activities. 

When Can I Work Out After Labiaplasty?

Strenuous activity should be postponed for at least 4 weeks after labiaplasty. The increase in heart rate could cause prolonged swelling. Exercise could also disrupt the sutures that are keeping incisions closed, so could result in more extensive scarring than expected. 

Patients can walk as they feel well enough after their labiaplasty procedure. Exercise such as biking may resume after 6 weeks. 

When Can I Have Sex?

Like certain exercises, sexual intercourse directly affects the healing labia. Patients should wait 6 weeks to resume sexual intercourse to avoid unnecessary pain and potential surgical complications. 

Do you have more questions about labiaplasty? Contact our Campbell, CA office near San Jose at (408) 559-4700. We’re happy to schedule a consultation for you.