Labiaplasty results can be difficult to see examples of because labiaplasty before and after results photos are not readily available online. Still, many labiaplasty patient in Las Vegas are anxious about their results and want to know exactly when they’ll be able to look “normal” again and return to regular activities like exercise, sexual intercourse, and more.
In the following article, we’ll be exploring when patients can expect to see their labiaplasty final results. We’ll also talk about labiaplasty recovery and how best to care for your treatment area after this outpatient procedure.
What Is Labiaplasty?
A labiaplasty procedure or labiaplasty minora reduction, is performed to reduce the size of the labia minora or inner lips of the vaginal opening. This surgical procedure is sometimes confused with labia majoraplasty, which reduces the excess skin and fat of the labia majora (outer labia) or outer folds of the vaginal opening.
Labiaplasty is also different than clitoral hood reduction, another form of vaginal rejuvenation.
When a woman has enlarged or asymmetrical labia (inner labia), the excess labial tissue can sometimes cause discomfort, pain, chafing, and self-consciousness.
Some women even have a problem with contracting urinary tract infections. If you have enlarged labia (labial hypertrophy) and undergo labiaplasty, however, these issues can be quickly corrected.
When Will I See Results After Undergoing Labiaplasty Surgery?
With labiaplasty, the labia minora will be shortened and reduced in size, and these results will be apparent right away. The downside is that labiaplasty swelling may camouflage your results or genital appearance for a few weeks.
Within four to six weeks, most patients will be able to see significant changes clearly with their aesthetic labia minora, however, and they will have recovered from the major portion of their plastic surgery procedure and can start returning to their normal activities.
Labiaplasty Recovery
Right after your labia surgery, you should feel relatively well as the numbing solution used locally around your labia will still be working. Once this wears off, however, some discomfort and soreness may set in.
Therefore, most plastic surgeons recommend overlapping this time with some pain medication after you leave the surgery center and head home. That way, you are not with physical discomfort throughout the first night of being at home and thereafter.
Most patients only need to use pain medications for a few days to improve their comfort.
Other labiaplasty risks or symptoms of labiaplasty recovery include:
- Bruising
- Swelling
- Itching
- Changes in sensation (usually temporary)
You will receive instructions on how to take care of yourself during your recovery. Every plastic surgeon will provide different instructions, so be sure to follow your own surgeon’s guidelines only. 
Bathing
Bathing is usually okay right away following your labiaplasty. Most labiaplasty surgeons will tell you not to use soap directly on the surgical area, however.
If you take a shower, simply letting lukewarm water gently run over the treatment area is fine. You might also consider using a squirt bottle to gently squirt water around the area. It’s important to keep the vaginal opening clean and unagitated.
Be sure not to rub or scrub the area. Likewise, very gently pay your skin folds dry after bathing.
Urination and Bowel Movements
Using the restroom following labiaplasty surgery is much like using the restroom following vaginal childbirth. It’s important to always be gentle and very hygienic.
Urinate as normal following surgery. Bowel movements should be normal as well, but it’s important not to strain, and for some women, this may lead to constipation. If you encounter this issue, be sure to take care of it quickly.
Some women will preemptively treat constipation by taking fiber supplements. We also recommend drinking tons of water and eating a well-balanced diet full of fiber.
Return to Normal Activities
After four to six weeks, most patients can go back to regular activities, including exercise, tampon use, and sexual intimacy. However, it’s very important to follow your body’s lead.
For example, if you had your labiaplasty performed four weeks ago and your doctor has cleared you for sexual intimacy, but you just don’t feel ready, it’s certainly okay to wait one or two weeks longer. The longer you “baby” your treatment area, the better your inner labia will heal.
Above all else, you must be careful to avoid too much friction in the area as this can irritate the wound. It may even agitate the incisions and actually open up the incision site. This could lead to an infection, which can be dangerous to your health and may even compromise your results.
Labiaplasty Results and Recovery FAQ
Labiaplasty Results and Recovery FAQWhen will I see non surgical labiaplasty results?
Depending on the non surgical technique used for your labiaplasty, results are typically seen within a few weeks to a few months.
Talk to your surgeon about when you can expect to see results and which surgical techniques they will employ.
Does labiaplasty affect pleasure?
Many patients after having the excess tissue removed are concerned about sex after labiaplasty.
However, for most patients, a lack of sexual intimacy satisfaction is one of the main reasons for seeking labiaplasty in the first place. Therefore, they find that their sex life improves post-surgery.
The only drawback is a potential loss of sensation in the labia following surgery. However, this is typically very rare and/or short-lived and you should resume normal labia sensation.
When will I be able to remove my surgical dressing following surgery?
The timing for removing surgical dressings after labiaplasty varies based on your surgeon’s instructions. Typically, it’s within a few days to a week post-surgery, but always follow your surgeon’s guidance precisely.
Will labiaplasty leave a scar?
Women considering labiaplasty can take comfort in knowing that incisions are typically small, resulting in well-hidden labiaplasty scars due to thin labial tissue with good blood supply, minimizing unexpected scarring.
What type of anesthesia is used for labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the procedure and patient preference.
What labiaplasty techniques can be used?
Labiaplasty procedures include trimming excess tissue (trim procedure labiaplasty), reshaping the labia minora (wedge procedure labiaplasty), or a combination of both techniques for desired aesthetic and functional outcomes.
Is Labiaplasty Covered by Insurance?
Unfortunately, labiaplasty is typically not covered by insurance in most cases. Insurance companies generally classify labiaplasty as a cosmetic procedure rather than medically necessary, which means patients usually need to pay out-of-pocket for the surgery.
Labiaplasty insurance coverage is only possible when the procedure is deemed medically necessary. For labiaplasty to qualify for coverage, you must demonstrate legitimate medical reasons rather than aesthetic concerns.
What to expect 4 weeks after labiaplasty?
At the 4-week mark following your procedure, most actual patients experience significant improvement in their healing process. You should notice reduced swelling and discomfort compared to the initial recovery weeks. Many women find they can gradually return to light physical activities and may feel more comfortable wearing previously tight fitting clothes.
Your surgeon will typically clear you for non-strenuous exercise and daily activities, though complete healing continues for several more weeks. The surgical site should appear less inflamed, and any initial concerns about sexual satisfaction can begin to be addressed as tissues continue to settle into their new shape.
It’s important to follow your personalized treatment plan and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing progression. Most patients report improved self esteem at this stage as they begin to see the final results taking shape, though complete healing and final aesthetic outcomes may take up to 3-6 months.
Can a labiaplasty fail?
While labiaplasty is generally successful, complications can occur that might be considered a “failure.” The most common issues include asymmetry, over-correction where too much tissue was removed, or under-correction requiring revision surgery. Some patients may experience discomfort during intimacy or develop scar tissue that affects sensation.
Factors that influence success include the surgeon’s experience with the specific wedge resection technique or trim method used, proper patient selection to ensure you’re a good candidate, and adherence to post-operative care instructions.
Choosing a qualified plastic surgeon who can help you make an informed decision about the procedure significantly reduces the risk of unsatisfactory results. Revision rates are relatively low when the procedure is performed by experienced surgeons, but it’s crucial to have realistic expectations and understand all potential outcomes before proceeding.
Why is my labiaplasty taking so long to heal?
Labiaplasty healing varies significantly between individuals, and several factors can extend the recovery timeline. The genital area has a rich blood supply and is subject to movement and friction, which can slow the healing process compared to other surgical sites.
Factors that may prolong healing include:
- Individual healing capacity and age
- The extent of tissue removed during surgery
- Whether you received IV sedation or general anesthesia (which can affect initial recovery)
- Post-operative care compliance
- Activity level and return to exercise too soon
- Infection or complications at the surgical site
The delicate nature of the tissue and the need to maintain proper hygiene while wearing a surgical gown during initial recovery can also impact healing speed. Some patients may need 8-12 weeks for complete healing rather than the typical 6-8 weeks.
Book a Personal Consultation Appointment
If you are interested in labiaplasty in the Las Vegas area, board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rachel Mason can help with her surgical skills. Dr. Mason specializes in labiaplasty and other cosmetic surgical procedures and takes great care with every patient she sees.
Allow Dr. Mason and her dedicated team to help you feel at ease as you begin your labiaplasty journey. Call today to set up your appointment.
References
https://www.webmd.com/women/vaginoplasty-and-labiaplasty-procedures