Labiaplasty Recovery: Timeline + Tips
Previously published on August 29, 2018. Updated on June 23, 2023 with additional recovery tips.
Labiaplasty, also known as a labial reduction, is a surgical procedure that involves altering the labia minora or labia majora, which are the inner and outer folds of skin surrounding the vaginal opening. The vaginal rejuvenation surgery is performed to reshape and reduce the size of the labia for functional or aesthetic concerns. Labiaplasty is a relatively straightforward in-office procedure, but allowing ample time for a proper recovery is crucial.
Following a labiaplasty surgery, patients typically achieve full recovery and can comfortably resume sexual activity and vigorous physical activity after approximately six weeks; however, the exact timeline for recovery depends on several factors including the patient’s unique healing response and pain tolerance, the surgeon’s skill and technique, the type of labiaplasty technique performed, and how closely the patient follows their post-procedure care instructions. In this post, we will explore the details and recovery timeline of a labiaplasty and outline some recovery tips for patients.
Preparing for Labiaplasty
Preparing ahead of time for your labiaplasty can decrease discomfort, give you more time to rest, and will generally make your recovery more smoothly. To reduce risk of complications and hasten your recovery time, consider the following:
Get Healthy
As your surgery date approaches, it’s never too early to start hydrating, eating healthy, whole foods, and getting more sleep. The healthier your body before surgery, the faster your recovery. Make sure that your protein intake is adequate as they provide the building blocks (i.e. amino acids) for healing. I like my patients to double their protein intake in the weeks leading up to surgery.
Take a Break
Plan on taking at least one week off from work so you can properly rest and heal before you return to activities.
Prepare Your Home
Purchase all post-surgery prescriptions and medications ahead of time, so you have them as soon as you return home. Consider stocking up on groceries and comfort items so there’s no need to run errands while you’re resting.
Remove Pubic Hair
Consider shaving or waxing before your surgery to help keep the area clear of hair while your tissues heal.
Timeline of Labiaplasty Recovery
The recovery timeline for a labiaplasty surgery can vary from person to person, but here is a general overview:
1–3 days after surgery
During this initial period, it is common to experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area. Patients may be prescribed pain medication to manage any post-operative pain. It is not uncommon for one side of the labia to be more swollen than the other side in the early period. Rest is extremely important. Most patients will be advised to minimize walking for the first 2-3 days. It is important to rest and avoid strenuous activities during this time. Applying ice packs can help reduce swelling, but patients should always talk to their surgeon first.
1 week after surgery
Most patients start to feel more comfortable and experience a significant decrease in swelling and bruising after one week. Patients may still have some mild discomfort, but it should be manageable with over-the-counter pain relievers. Many women begin to feel well enough to walk and perform normal physical activity. Most patients will be cleared to go back to work. Some patients may notice a persistent itchiness as their incisions continue to heal. It is important to not scratch or rub the treated area. It is crucial to continue following the surgeon’s instructions regarding wound care and hygiene.
3–4 weeks after surgery
By this time, most of the swelling and bruising should have subsided. Patients may begin to feel more like their normal selves, although some patients may still have residual swelling. It is important to continue practicing good hygiene and avoid any activities that could put strain or pressure on the surgical area.
Dissolvable stitches that are frequently used to close labiaplasty incisions should fully be gone. Patients are often cleared to undertake more active forms of exercise, but your surgeon may still advise you to refrain from insertional sexual intercourse or using tampons.
6 weeks after surgery
Around this time, most patients have achieved full recovery (90% healed) and can typically resume sexual activity, use tampons, and engage in vigorous physical activities. However, it is essential to gradually reintroduce activities to avoid any discomfort or complications. While most of the swelling will have subsided, the true final result will not become apparent until 4-6 months following the procedure.
Post-surgery Pain
The primary type of labiaplasty procedure commonly performed is the reduction of the labia minora length. Various techniques are available, but the most prevalent approach involves making discreet incisions on each side, carefully removing excess labial tissue, and skillfully suturing the area back together.
While labiaplasty is considered a relatively minor procedure, it is still an invasive surgery that requires a recovery period. Most of the pain should subside within the first 3 to 5 days and can be controlled with prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter pain relievers. Here are some additional tips to alleviate pain:
- Pain medication: Follow the plastic surgeon’s instructions regarding pain medication usage. Take it only as needed and as prescribed.
- Cold compresses: Applying cold compresses to the surgical area can help reduce swelling and minimize pain. The cold temperature restricts blood flow, which helps to alleviate discomfort.
- Ample rest: Allow for plenty of rest during the initial days following the surgery. Avoid engaging in strenuous activities that could strain the surgical site. Taking it easy will aid in a smoother recovery.
- Loose-fitting clothing: Opt for loose-fitting underwear and bottoms to avoid any unnecessary pressure or constriction on the surgical area, which could cause discomfort. Comfortable clothing allows for better airflow and promotes healing.
- Doughnut pillow: When sitting, consider using a doughnut-shaped pillow, which helps relieve pressure on the surgical site.
- Hygiene considerations: When urinating, opt for warm water cleansing instead of using toilet paper. This approach can minimize potential irritation.
Itching and Swelling
Swelling and itching after any surgery are both extremely common and completely normal. These are the most common issues cited by patients and, while they are signs of healing and recovery, they can be irritating and uncomfortable. Swelling peaks 3 to 5 days after surgery while itching at the incision site can last 7 to 10 days post-surgery. If these symptoms are particularly severe or last longer than this time frame, it is important for patients to reach out to their plastic surgeon to discuss potential causes.
To address itching after labiaplasty, consider the following:
- Moisturize the surgical site: Apply a lubricating ointment or prescribed moisturizer to keep the incisions moist and prevent them from forming scabs. To minimize the risk of infection, make sure hands are clean before applying any topical products.
- Witch hazel cooling pads: Use witch hazel cooling pads to provide soothing relief for any itching sensation in the genital area.
- Maintain cleanliness and dressing: Keep the surgical site clean as per the plastic surgeon’s instructions. Follow their guidance on applying fresh, sterile dressings to promote proper healing and prevent infection.
- Sitz bath: Consider having sitz baths during the healing period, only after the surgeon has given the OK for submerging the area in water. Sitz baths involve soaking the genital area in warm water to gently cleanse the area, remove dead skin, and alleviate itching. Ensure the water is lukewarm and follow the surgeon’s recommendations for frequency and duration.
- Consult the surgeon regarding antihistamines: If the itching persists and becomes bothersome, consult the plastic surgeon before taking any oral antihistamine medication. Antihistamines can help address the physiological agent responsible for the itchy sensation at the incision site, but it is important to consult the surgeon first.
To help alleviate swelling faster after labiaplasty, consider the following tips:
- Cold compress: Use an ice pack or a pack of frozen peas wrapped in a thin barrier to ice the surgical area. Apply it for 15 minutes at a time, alternating with 15-minute breaks.
- Low-sodium diet: Consuming foods low in sodium (salt) is advisable as salt can contribute to water retention in the body, exacerbating swelling.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential. Proper hydration encourages elimination of excess water through urination, which can help reduce swelling.
- Gentle movement: Engage in light-paced movements to promote blood circulation and decrease swelling. Avoid strenuous activities during the early stages of recovery.
- Pillow under buttocks when sleeping: Place a pillow under the buttocks for elevation while sleeping. This positioning helps redirect blood flow away from the surgical area, reducing inflammation.
Scarring
As with any surgery, there is always a chance of scarring; however, a good surgeon will place incisions in non-visible areas to minimize the risk of visible scars. Usually, any potential scarring will blend in with the naturally occurring wrinkles and folds of the surrounding labial tissue. To minimize scarring, patients should always follow all the recommended aftercare directed by their surgeon.
Stitches
Most cosmetic surgery procedures are performed with dissolvable stitches, which dissolve over time as incisions heal — a process that could take up to 4 weeks. At first, the area may feel firm and inflamed, but will soften as it heals.
Personal Hygiene Following Surgery
As mentioned previously, it is crucial that patients do not submerge the area in water — such as in a bath, pool, or shower — until the surgeon has given the all-clear. In the meantime, however, patients should still adhere to their personal hygiene and keep the area clean by gently rinsing and patting dry. Also mentioned above is a tip to rinse after urination rather than wipe with toilet paper, as it can be painful and irritating to use dry toilet paper right away. Patients should also wear clean, loose-fitting underwear and clothing to allow for proper airflow to the area.
Labiaplasty Recovery Tips
Patients considering labiaplasty surgery to enhance the appearance of their vaginal area should have a clear understanding of the surgical process and the recovery involved. While the initial downtime may be up to 2 weeks, complete recovery can take longer. Here are ten tips to aid healing and expedite recovery:
Follow medication instructions: Take prescribed medications and over-the-counter remedies as directed to alleviate itching, swelling, and discomfort during the recovery period.
Use cold compresses: Applying cold compresses to the treated area in 20-minute intervals, with a thin barrier like a washcloth between the ice pack and the surgical site, can provide relief after labiaplasty and help reduce swelling.
Maintain a healthy diet: Optimize healing with a nutritious diet. Replace processed foods with fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Additionally, stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Avoid alcohol and tobacco: During the healing process, refrain from consuming alcohol and smoking. These substances can impede healing and prolong recovery time.
Steer clear of strenuous activities: Avoid intense workouts and other physically demanding activities until the surgeon gives approval.
Lubrication: For the first two weeks, apply the provided lubricants to keep the surgical sutures moist and prevent them from drying out. Ensure hands are thoroughly washed before lubricating the area.
Rest: Rest is essential for optimal healing after any surgical procedure. Prioritize sleep and relaxation during the early stages of recovery.
Engage in gentle movement: While rest is crucial, occasional movement around the house is important to prevent blood clotting. Take short, gentle walks, but avoid long walks during the initial recovery period.
Change surgical dressings: Regularly change surgical dressings to maintain a clean and dry area. It’s normal to experience drainage, which can be managed by wearing period panties or using pads.
Wear loose clothing: Opt for loose and comfortable clothing, such as baggy sweats or pajamas, instead of tight-fitting garments like yoga pants, thongs, or skinny jeans. Loose clothing minimizes pressure and reduces the risk of chafing on the surgical area.
Remember to consult with the surgeon for personalized post-operative instructions and guidance throughout the recovery process.
How Long Until You See Results?
Everyone heals at their own pace. You’ll begin to see the new shape of your labia within 2 weeks as your swelling subsides and your incisions heal. It will take approximately 3 weeks before you can return to exercise, sexual activity, and baths.
Some women experience residual swelling for up to 6 months after the procedure. Following the above preparation and recovery tips, and above all the advice of your doctor, will help reduce this risk.
A united group of skin care specialists from Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, Austin's leader in Dermatology and Plastic Surgery. Articles posted under WD staff are authored through combined contributions from our entire team, including Plastic Surgeons, Dermatologists, Aestheticians, Physician Assistants, Aesthetic Nurses, and Patient Coordinators.
I am thinking about having a vaginal rejuvenation treatment done on me. One of my concerns is the downtime to it. It is good to know that within 3 weeks I can exercise again.
Hey there,
I jus thad mine done (3 weeks ago) and CANNOT confirm that exercise is possible at this point. It really depends on how much was taken off and how swollen it was et cetera, so it is very specific to the individual case. I was able to sit without pain and strain on the sutures around 16 days after the surgery – that is nowhere near what it says on many websites (“you can go back to work after two days” etc.). It stopped “spotting” (i.e. little blood spots) around the same time, ~2.5 weeks after surgery. I got the stitches removed today and it is still very tender and I sit exclusively on a donut pillow, because it is still uncomfortable. I doubt I will be able to go running or anything similar until the full six weeks are up. So make sure to discuss this with your surgeon in advance and have a buffer period in case it does take longer for you than it does for others.
Hiya, I am so grateful for finding this because I also can confirm that exercise is not possible after 3 weeks!! I am just over 3 weeks and I can now sit comfortably however I still have a lot swelling one side and and I am unable to wear any underwear at this point because it’s really uncomfortable. I’m wondering how the rest of your recovery went? It has been a rough recovery for me and feeling desperate to return to some sort of normality!!
Thank you for explaining that after 6 weeks post surgery, you should be about 90% healed. My friend has been wondering how long after surgery it would take for her to heal. It’s good to know that it won’t be too long after and she can get back on her feet quickly.
I underwent labiaplasty early last year. For me, recovery was actually not as bad as I thought it would be. I had some pain for the first week, but nothing that was unmanageable. After a few weeks everything subsided and I could see the final result. I feel more confident in my bathing suit and my husband says he can feel the difference during intercourse. So I’d say it was well worth it!
I am a mother and this helped me!
What a great factual post, I’ll definitely share with my patients here in Colorado!
I am on the waiting list to have it done just wondering how long does it take roughly (NHS)
Hi Kel, procedure time can vary a bit depending on the specifics but most labiaplasty procedures take 1-2 hours to be performed. We hop that helps!
Thanks,
WD Staff
I’m on my 4th day after having the surgery done and I have to say… it’s been really tough for me, very hard to walk, almost impossible to sit and I can’t sleep well either so read on how to treat the wound before getting the surgery and prepare yourself
Ever since I was in my early twenties I wanted to get a labiaplasty done, but after having my three children I now decided that I want to take the next step. It’s interesting to know that it takes around weeks to be almost completely healed, but after the first week, most patients no longer require pain medication. I am going to start looking for a reputable plastic surgeon, but I first wanted to know how the process works.
I am on day 6 of recovery and it has been a way easier recovery than I expected, it has been amazing and I am so happy I went thru with the procedure. The procedure took about 15-20 minutes, I just did local freezing and I walked without pain afterwards and drove myself home. The only thing I was nervous about was going pee after my surgery, but I didn’t experience any burning what so ever while using the bathroom during my recovery. I’ve been icing, using polysporin and taking medicine as per what the surgeon recommended. Very minor swelling and pain, I take it slow while walking or in the process of getting up and sitting down but it is more slight discomfort than any form of pain. I try to lay in bed without pants as often as I can with my legs slightly spread open so the wounds get a lot of oxygen. I am experiencing minor drainage and bleeding and that’s about it. Everyone’s recovery is different, but from my experience so far I would definetly recommend it anyone who is interested in it to get it, so far it has been beyond worth it and a peaceful recovery for something that seemed like such an invasive surgery. So excited to see my results in the next few weeks!
I had this surgery done in Feb 2012. Since about Jan 2020, my scars have been extremely itchy and even painful. I have ruled out vaginal infections and STI’s. From the scratching, my scars are becoming more prominent. My recovery from the surgery went very well, and I haven’t experienced this sort of symptom since the healing process was complete. What is happening?
Hi Gen,
We’re sorry to hear about this issue, but we greatly appreciate you sharing it with our community of readers. You may want to discuss this with you gynecologist. And sooner rather than later to minimize the scratching, that can definitely result in damage or making any scars more visible.
I’m not sure if it would be related to the surgery as it’s been some time since that was performed. So we would recommend that you start there. However, your physician should be able to pinpoint if there is any connection after performing an exam.
We hope that helps!
Thanks,
WD Staff
After considering this procedure for 15 years I am now 11 days post surgery which I had privately in the U.K. (cost was £2,700 if anyone is wondering). I had the procedure done under a local anaesthetic. Procedure itself took just over 2 hours. After the initial discomfort of the injections I didn’t feel a thing!
The first 4 days after my surgery were pretty painful to be honest. I was VERY swollen unable to walk properly as I had to keep my legs so far apart and unable to sit down or wear anything on my bottom half.I found putting towels down on my bed and just resting was the only way to improve. I showered as normal to keep the area clean (especially after going to the loo). Pouring some warm water on the area whilst weeing also helped.
I was checked yesterday. No signs of infection, no bleeding and everything is showing signs of healing nicely. I am a lot more comfortable, pain is almost gone and I’m able to sleep better but I am still very swollen. The skin is still bruised and feels quite firm in that area and I’m still walking a bit like John Wayne. Using an ice compress has really helped! I can see a huge improvement already and I’m so excited to see the outcome when everything is healed.
My advise is book time off work, have someone there to look after you (you will absolutely need it!) Have some cushions ready for under your legs at bedtime and expect the first few days to be very unpleasant. Hope this helps anyone considering the treatment!
Currently on my 5th day since I had the procedure done, I found your tips relatable and helpful! These first few days of recovery have been very painful, I have been positioning my legs apart and laying down hasn’t been the comfiest. My body muscles are aching and in pain because of this, my neck especially. Just been wearing lose fitting pants and letting the area breathe. The cleansing bottle they gave me has helped the burning while peeing as well as helping rinse the area. Day 4 I was able to lightly lather and touch the area without shooting burning pain with soap in the shower, touch gently. The bruising looks black but the swelling has gone down and the ice packs have helped to decrease swelling. I’m walking like John Wayne too lol! Walking is hard now! I wasn’t comfortable to sit up until day 4. I wish I took it easy the day after surgery, maybe I would be having a smoother recovery; I’ve had nausea, vomiting, bloating, and headaches and dizziness days after still. Time off from work or study is definitely needed in my experience, and having someone to help care for you during your recovery is definitely recommended as well! Rest is key as well as taking time to recover yourself, eating healthy and drinking lots of water are important too.
I am currently 4 weeks post op. The first five days were by far the worst. The first day when I drove myself home after the numbing wore off I was in excruciating pain and it took the pain meds 3 hours to kick in. I was strictly bed to bathroom for 4 1/2 days. The first night I slept maybe 3 hours total. Even then on day 5 I was still very swollen and couldn’t really sit well. The bruising went away completely around a week and a half. And by my two week check up was gone and the swelling substantially subsided. I went back to the gym after a week with light weights and no serious straining. At week four I am just now able to add some weights to my workout. The area is still very tender and itchy. Even at 4 weeks. And after a long day on my feet I still am swollen. I had skin cut from my labia, above my clitoral hood, and my perineal area so mine was more extensive. They say sex between 3-6 weeks but mine is definitely 6-8 weeks by my surgeon and with good reason as my labia still hurt a bit and I can’t wear tight pants. Overall I am pleased with the surgery outcome and I feel more comfortable already. Just can’t wait to finish healing
Oh my …
I am on Day 5 post. I still feel a lot of burning sitting down and moving around. Just in general a lot of discomfort. I can’t close my legs and are walking around like a penguin. I have been on painkillers and wash my self after bathroom visit. .. I want to speed up the healing process by maybe using Aloe Vera gel ( from own plant ) and maybe coconut oil ? Also because I feel it’s so dry, it needs some moist ? I don’t know guys – what to you think !?
Hi Nashy,
Thanks for sharing with our readers! We would probably recommend that you contact your surgeon directly to discuss. Depending on the specifics, they will be able to advise you on how best to move forward.
Thanks,
WD Staff
Here’re our tips:
1. Avoid Baths or Swimming
You need your incision to stay dry so it doesn’t get infected, so this means you’ll need to avoid baths or swimming. Even your showers should be kept short, and you’ll want to pat the area dry immediately after you’re done. Make sure you keep your dressings dry as well and change them promptly if they get wet.
2. Avoid Sex
Your labia need time to heal, and having sex will definitely interfere with this process. It can rip open sutures or even cause the wound to bleed. Therefore, avoid intercourse for at least six to eight weeks after the surgery (your doctor will let you know when you’re cleared for sexual activity at a follow-up appointment at our Houston office).
3. Rest at Home
You may be tempted to get back to your normal routine as soon as possible, but your body needs time to heal, which means you should limit your activities. Ideally, stay off work for at least a week so your body can focus on making repairs. This doesn’t mean you want to be completely sedentary; taking short walks is crucial to the recovery process because it minimizes the chance of blood clots forming.
4. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing
Recovering from a labiaplasty means you get to enjoy a comfortable wardrobe. This includes loose-fitting underwear and pants, as tight clothing can irritate your wound and prevent it from healing quickly.
5. Utilize Pads on Your Period
If you’re unlucky enough to be on your period during your recovery from labiaplasty, you’ll want to rely on pads and liners as your method of feminine hygiene. Tampons can cause irritation to the area, so you’ll definitely want to avoid them.
Hello there,
I have done mine around two weeks ago, the swelling is still there and I don’t think it is anywhere near normal as mentioned here. It is good to mention though, in my case, I have done both clitoral hood reduction and Labiaplasty. The struggle and pain are real, and not as short as mentioned.. I honestly advise not to do any heavy exercise that could risk putting everything you went through away. It is also good to know that I am not the only one.. My wedding could be couple of months from today and I only hope my husband won’t notice the scarring and that I will be completely healed by then..
FYI – do not expect a perfect result or a perfect vulva after getting this surgery done.. It reduces the excessive skin which will make you feel better. but it will never go back to the baby Barbie shape you have in mind
I am currently 3 days post op and doing very well all things considered. I personally haven’t had what I would consider pain but more of discomfort. I had mine done under local anestetic and the procedure took approximately one hour, I was able to drive myself home afterwards.
My surgeon doesn’t generally prescribe pain relievers for this procedure (which I was shocked and a little skeptical about at first) he advised me to take 2 extra strength tylenol every 4-6 hours and in all honesty I probably take them twice daily. I ice regularly but swelling does seem to be minimal and no bruising as of yet but I’m sure that will come with time. Although it’s still fresh I can get a picture of what it will soon look like and so far so good.
I feel grateful to be having it as easy as I have been. I have read that recovery can vary drastically between indivuals, with some saying it’s the worst pain they have ever experienced and others being back at work the next with little to no pain.
I hope that everyone experiencing such pain is able to recover quickly and is soon feeling more comfortable and confident with their new look xx
I am 4 weeks post op the stitches are scratching me causing pain. Other than that it is fine
I’m on day 5 and this is the worst pain I’ve ever felt (I’ve had three babies without pain relief!!) if I could go back, I absolutely would not choose to do this. I can’t sit, I can’t walk, I can’t sleep because I can’t get comfy. I don’t show pain easily, but I’ve cried a lot the past couple of days. I’m taking all pain meds I can. Honestly this is the worst thing I’ve gone through. It burns, it stings, it itches, it’s bleeding. I can’t even bare to get water on it so I haven’t washed, I’ve even tried to drip water on from a flannel, or dab with a damp cloth – I simply can’t.
I see no end to this and I’ve seriously had enough. Absolutely regretting ever getting the procedure done.
Hi could you please provide an update? I have just had mine done today and I am in agony. I am icing, I am taking medication as much as possible and the burning/stinging is absolutely unbearable. I’m already regretting getting it done and feel so lost as to what to REALLY expect and if there is anything I can physically do?
I am a few day from hitting my 6 week mark. The area is still sensitive and I can see my incision line along my labia which make me scared for an sexual activities. My doctor cleared me at week 5 for all activities but honestly I think the area is way too sensitive and sometimes hurts. My recovery period was not good at all, I had to take 2 weeks off work and when I did go back to work after 2 weeks I was still in agony and walking wide. Overall it’s definitely worth it, it looks beautiful my doctor did a great job!
Hi! I am on day 7 after my surgery and i am FINALLY able to walk and sit comfortably. The first three days were the worst. I know it is going to be worth it though. I can already tell a major difference and I still have a lot of stitches
Use ice! My surgeon failed to tell me that until I was already in a few days … also get some Neosporin for when the stitches start to get pokey! Helped me a TON!
Oh and a blow dryer … that’s how I made sure I was nice and dry after showering!
Good luck, y’all! It will be totally worth it!
I am 2 days post op from Labiaplasty. This was done privately and under a GA. I am very swollen but everything is honestly fine, I feel like my Surgeon has given me plenty of tips to prevent a lot of what you guys are going through.
I have mild discomfort at best. I am taking 2 Paracetamol every 6 hours, 1 NSAID every 8 hours and he put me on Antibiotics for 2 weeks 1 3 times a day. I also have a medication gel to place across the stiches once a day at night. I bought a commode so I’m just getting up to wee and then back to bed. I am wearing DVT stockings to help circulation. I am resting in bed none stop and will be for the rest of the week! I am getting up twice a day when I need a wee to move my legs and that’s it. I can barely notice any pain. When I walk it doesn’t hurt but I have to walk slowly. When I wee, I’m placing water pouring over so that there’s no burn / sting. I am dabbing dry (not completely drying). There is more blood than I expected on my pads but I change them often and I’m wearing net knickers to help. I have dissolvable stiches. I could see them but now I can’t because the swelling is more :). All in all happy. The only thing I’m dreading is my period (due in a few days) as can’t use tampons but this is fine :).