What Is The Timeline for Labiaplasty Recovery?

For some women, just the thought of a labiaplasty can be a little intimidating, and for obvious reasons – surgery can be scary enough as it is without involving your genitals! Here at Austin Labiaplasty and Vaginal Rejuvenation, we work very hard to provide prospective patients with all of the information they need to make an informed decision when it comes to their bodies and sexual health. Now that we are entering the winter months, a time of year when many women decide to get vaginal rejuvenation procedures, we thought it was the perfect moment to do a deep dive into the recovery timeline for labiaplasty. 

Week 1 

In the first week following labiaplasty, most patients find it best to take 7-10 days off from work. This is due to the fact that swelling and tenderness are the most present immediately after the procedure (pain medication is provided). Patients may experience itching as the wounds begin to heal, which is normal. During the first week, we stay in close contact with patients to address any concerns. 

Weeks 2 – 3

After the first week, major swelling should begin to subside and patients can return to work and resume most day to day activities. However, we recommend that patients continue to refrain from sex, strenuous exercise, swimming, and any activity that puts direct pressure on the labia (such as riding a bike, a motorcycle, a horse, etc.) Due to swelling and the presence of the dissolvable sutures that are placed during the procedure, you may observe a normal amount of asymmetry or irregularity and ridging along the incision line. This is nothing to worry about, as the appearance of the labia will continue to change significantly over the next few weeks.

Weeks 4 – 6

At this point, the labia tissue is close to being fully healed. Sutures will typically fully dissolve, and swelling and discomfort are significantly decreased by week 6. Patients can resume swimming as the wounds should be fully closed, however they should continue to avoid activities that put direct pressure on the labia. 

Weeks 6 – 12

After six weeks, patients are generally able to resume sexual intercourse and strenuous exercise. Patients will return to our clinic for a follow up consultation so that we can assess the labia now that the healing process is complete. Any remaining swelling should be completely resolved by week 12. While it is rare, it may be determined that a revision is necessary, in which case Austin Labiaplasty and Vaginal Rejuvenation will cover the revision procedure under the initial cost of the labiaplasty. 

If you are interested in learning more about labiaplasty, contact Austin Labiaplasty and Vaginal Rejuvenation today to schedule a free consultation.