PRE-OPERATIVE
- Provide us with your medical history and lab exams
- Discontinue using Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naprosyn, and Vitamin E for one week before and a few days after your procedure as these act as blood thinners
- It is advisable not to smoke for at least two weeks prior and one after the surgery as nicotine can impair circulation and healing
SURGERY
The procedure utilized traditionally is the direct excision and reduction method. With this method a long strip of the Labia Minora is excised, leaving a surgical incision at the edge of the Labia. Alternatively, a wedge excision technique is used, which removes a V-shaped area of Labia Minora, eliminating the excess and avoiding the incision along the labial edge. Reduction of the Labia Majora involves liposculpture and liposuction to reduce the unsightly protuberance of the Labia Majora. At times it is combined with the reduction and tightening of the Mons Pubis, otherwise called Monsplasty. Vaginal Lip Reduction or Reconstruction is performed under local anaesthesia with sedation. This procedure is rather short, and can take about 30 minutes to an hour. Labiaplasty does not hinder natural childbirth.
POST SURGERY
Most patients experience moderate discomfort, swelling, and bruising for two to seven days following the procedure. It is possible to return to work the next day. Patients with little to no bruising may shower on the same day; there are no stitches to remove, and sexual intercourse may be resumed after 4 to 6 weeks. In most cases, the reduction or reconstruction of the labia is virtually undetectable after full recovery.
SUMARY
- Surgery length: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Anaesthesia: local with sedation
- Clinic or hospital internment: day clinic
- Post surgery: no removal of stitches and intercourse can be resumed in 4 to 6 weeks
- Physical activities: resume after 2 to 4 weeks
