What To Expect Before, During, And After Labiaplasty

For those women interested in a labiaplasty, be aware that you must be evaluated by a professional and deemed a good candidate. Once you have been cleared for surgery, let’s find out what you can expect before, during, and after your labiaplasty.

What Is Labiaplasty?

Vaginal rejuvenation is another name for labiaplasty. It is a procedure that reduces the length of the labia minora (inner lips) or labia majora (outer lips). It is normally performed on an outpatient basis and takes approximately 1.5 hours. The surgery will resize and reshape your vaginal lips for comfort and sometimes health reasons. Many women find it difficult to wear tight clothing, a bathing suit, or even have sexual intercourse prior to a labiaplasty. Prior to the surgery, you must be in good physical health and a non-smoker.

Prior To Surgery

Patients will meet with Dr. Kardos for an evaluation. Be ready to explain how your vaginal area is problematic for you. If you find intercourse painful or you cannot exercise without discomfort, these are important factors for your physician to understand. Explain your expectations of the surgery at this time, and ask any questions you may have, including the risks associated with the surgery. Once you are considered a good candidate and surgery is scheduled, make some plans.

• You will need at least a week of recovery time after the surgery.
• Get plenty of sleep and eat healthy foods prior to surgery.
• Make plans to have a spouse, friend, or relative be available to help with necessities as you recover.
• Purchase prescriptions and groceries ahead of time. You could prepare some meals to freeze.
• Stay hydrated.

Day Of Surgery

Since this is an outpatient procedure, expect to go home on the same day. There are two types of labiaplasties: One reduces the size of the outer lips of the vagina, and the other reduces the size of the inner lips. In addition, there are two types of techniques: One is considered a trim where Dr. Kardos removes excess skin around the outer edge of the labia, and the other technique is known as a wedge. In this case the surgeon cuts a V shaped wedge at the widest point, and  the edges are stitched together.

Recovery After Surgery

You will be given post surgical incision care instructions, and you may be prescribed medications for pain. Most women can return to their normal routine within 1 to 2 weeks after surgery, but it is important not to have sexual intercourse for at least 6 weeks.  Once the swelling is reduced and scars begin to fade, you should begin to see results.