If you are considering labiaplasty for cosmetic reasons or to alleviate chronic pain and discomfort, you should take time to understand what you can expect in the way of recovery as well as the risks and complications that are possible.
This article will answer some questions, such as “Is labiaplasty dangerous?”, “What are the labiaplasty risks?”, and “Can labiaplasty cause nerve damage?” We will also provide some steps you can take to ensure that your healing process goes as smoothly as possible and is complication-free.
What Is a Labiaplasty?
A labiaplasty is a surgical procedure that is done to reduce the size of the labia, which are the folds of skin around the vaginal opening. It is done to reduce chronic pain, improve comfort, or enhance its function or appearance. Non-surgical, less invasive options are always exhausted first before a doctor will consider performing surgery.
Is Labiaplasty Safe?
Many people ask, “Is labiaplasty dangerous?” and for most patients, labiaplasty is not considered dangerous, and it is rare for anyone to experience complications. There is a very small risk of major bleeding or long-term nerve damage, and the likelihood of these complications depends on the surgeon’s expertise and how closely you follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions.
Labiaplasty is normally done as an outpatient procedure and is considered safe when performed by a highly qualified surgeon with extensive experience in labiaplasty surgery. Most patients recover without issue, but like any other type of surgery, there are risks and the potential for complications.
A systematic review done in October 2022 reported a 99% satisfaction rate among women who had labiaplasty surgery, with most complications being minor. The highest complication rates were just under 2% for postoperative bleeding, about 5% for wound openings, and about 8% for hematoma, which is where blood has collected under the skin in the surgical site instead of properly draining or being reabsorbed by the body. It is similar to a large, firm bruise that is swollen, tender, or painful.
Common Labiaplasty Side Effects
After labiaplasty surgery, most women notice some changes that are normal and part of the healing process. These side effects are normally only temporary and will gradually dissipate on their own.
- Bruising of the delicate tissue that normally fades in about two weeks
- Swelling and tenderness are normal and can be expected and can last for several weeks. The doctor can prescribe some pain medication, and ice packs can be used to help ease the discomfort.
- It is normal to have some bleeding that looks like light spotting during the first few days, and it is common to experience small amounts of blood on a sanitary pad or underwear.
When to Worry about Bleeding after Labiaplasty
As stated earlier, about 2% of patients experience post-surgical bleeding, and around 5% experience bleeding caused by their wounds not properly closing or their stitches being pulled open. If the bleeding becomes heavy, does not stop, or soaks through pads, it could be a sign of a more serious complication, and you need to have it checked out right away. The surgeon always provides strict instructions that need to be carefully followed so you do not strain your stitches. These instructions most often include avoiding sex, exercise, and tight garments until the surgeon clears you.
Uncommon Side Effects of Labiaplasty
Some more serious but rare side effects can happen after labiaplasty, including:
- Infection: Signs of infection may include redness, fever, increasing pain, or pus, and require quick medical intervention that includes a round of antibiotics.
- Hematoma: This is a collection of blood that accumulates under the skin at the surgical site and can cause swelling, pain, or firm lumps. Some may heal on their own, but some that are larger may need to be drained by the surgeon.
- Issues with healing: Sometimes this delicate tissue can heal unevenly, causing increased scarring, or it might require a minor revision.
- Changes in sensation: Many women ask, “Does labiaplasty affect sensation?” This very rarely happens, and most women do not lose any sensitivity in this area, but in very rare instances nerve irritation or injury can occur. This can cause temporary numbness or tingling, or in very rare cases, the changes may be permanent.
- Nerve damage: Nerve damage from labiaplasty is very rare but possible, so choosing a skilled surgeon is most important to lower the risk.
Things You Can Do to Help Ensure a Smooth and Complication-Free Recovery
- Choose a board-certified cosmetic surgeon or gynecologic surgeon with extensive experience in labia minora surgery.
- Carefully follow all the instructions provided by your surgeon, including those that pertain to before and after your surgery.
- Do not smoke before or after surgery since it delays healing.
- Attend all of your follow-up visits so your surgeon can monitor your recovery progress and intervene early if needed.
Where Can I Learn More About Labiaplasty Surgery?
If you would like to find out more about labiaplasty surgery, schedule a consultation with Dr. Angelina Postoev at IBI Plastic Surgery & Med Spa. Dr. Angelina is a triple board-certified cosmetic surgeon with extensive surgical experience and is known for her exceptional precision, artistic eye, and attention to detail, so she is the perfect choice to perform this delicate surgery. She will explain the entire procedure in detail, talk with you about your concerns, answer your questions, and provide you with the guidance and information you need to make an informed decision.
She and her team will ensure your comfort and safety from start to finish and will be by your side every step of the way. Set up your personal consultation today to find out if labiaplasty is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions about Labiaplasty Side Effects
Can Labiaplasty Cause Nerve Damage?
Nerve damage after labiaplasty is extremely rare, and most women heal with no change in labial sensation. In fact, the surgery most often improves everyday comfort and makes sex more pleasurable. In very rare cases, temporary numbness, tingling, or permanent damage is possible.
Does Labiaplasty Affect Sensation?
Most patients experience an improvement in comfort, and the sensation of the labia area is not negatively affected. Some women may have a temporary increase in sensitivity, or the area may feel numb while it heals. These temporary changes normally improve within a few weeks or months.
What Are Signs of a Labiaplasty Infection?
If you experience areas of redness that increase in circumference, swelling that keeps getting worse, pus, fever, or pain that increases in intensity, you probably have an infection, and you need to call your doctor right away.
How Much Bleeding after Labiaplasty Is Normal?
You should only be seeing light spotting or small amounts of bleeding in the first few days after your surgery. Heavy bleeding, large clots, or bleeding from your stitches that will not stop are not normal and should be checked immediately.
How Long Does Bruising after Labiaplasty Last?
Bruising will normally show up in the first few days and can last anywhere from a week to about two weeks. This will vary by person since everyone heals at their own speed. Eating a diet of healthy foods, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of sleep will help speed up your recovery and help your bruising fade more quickly.
