Labiaplasty Post-op Recovery FAQs
How long is the recovery period?
The recovery period is generally 6 weeks depending on whether you are having more than just a labiapalsty . If you are having just a labiaplasty of the minora and or majora as well as the clitoral hood and or the clitoris then you can be released from all restrictions at 6 weeks. During this time, activities such as exercise, swimming and sexual activity may be limited. Especially if any of the activities include straddling an object (ie motorcycle, bicycle, horse etc…) Specific details are given at your pre-op visit regarding restrictions and limitations.
Will I need to stay in the hospital?
No. Cosmetic vaginal surgery including a labiaplasty, clitoral hood lifts or reductions, and frenulectomy do not need to stay in the hospital. If however you elect to have a concurrent vaginoplasty ie vaginal rejuvenation for tightening the vagina, Drs Miklos & Moore encourage a one night stay to control pain and lessen postoperative anxiety.
Will I have a catheter?
It is possible that you will be discharged home with a catheter but the chance of this occurring is less than 5%. Prior to being discharged from the hospital, your catheter will be removed and you will be given a chance to void. If you are unable to empty your bladder completely, the catheter will be replaced. The catheter will stay in place for 3-7 days and be removed at our office or a physician’s office near you.
How long do I need to stay in town if I’m from out of state?
We prefer our patients to stay in town for the day of surgery and they can travel the next day if you are coming in from out of state or distances greater than approximately 100 miles. Most patients have their labiaplasty and leave the same day if they live within driving distance. This information will be discussed with you prior to surgery so the appropriate accommodations can be made.
What can I expect during my recovery?
There are several normal symptoms which may occur during the recovery period. Pain and discomfort are to be expected after surgery. Pain medication is given at the pre-op visit to control and manage post-operative pain. Yellow, malodorous vaginal discharge can be noted after surgery as this discharge is due to the vaginal stitches dissolving. Minimal incision bleeding and spotting can also be present.
The incisions site might appear dark red or purple and will fade over time. Wound separation can occur after surgery but is rare. Generally, the wound will heal overtime and does not require immediate intervention. It is important to contact your provider if this occurs.
What medications will I be sent home on?
Most patients are sent home with prescriptions of Torday (ketorolac) and a narcotic (Percocet, Norco, Vidodan). Toradol is an anti-inflammatory and this means it takes away edema ie swelling. Many patients do not understand how important this medication is for their healing. By controlling the swelling this will reduce the pressure on the nerves which cause pain. We give on 10 tablets of Toradol which is to be taken every 6 hours. When the Toradol runs out Drs Miklos & Moore recommend then taking Ibuprofen 800 mg 3 times a day for 10-14 days. This continues with the treatment of the swelling by reducing nerve pressure. You will also have a narcotic usually Percocet 10 mg and it is usually taken ½ – 1 tablet every 4 hours.
What restrictions will I have?
Throughout the post-op period, there will be restrictions on exercise, bathing, daily activities and sexual activity. Restrictions include no heavy lifting, tub baths, swimming, heavy exercise, sexual activity and use of tampons. The restriction time frames will vary depending on the number of cosmetic surgeries you have. Patient’s should not drive while on narcotic as it can cause drowsiness or inhibit their ability to drive. Most patients are off the narcotics within 1 weeks.
What symptoms should I report to my doctor?
Any signs of infection, including fever of 101F, redness, swelling, warmth or excessive drainage, should be reported immediately. Contact the office if you are experiencing heavy bleeding or saturating more than one pad per hour. Severe pain, uncontrolled by pain medication, should also be reported to the office.