Labiaplasty Aftercare Guidance
Recovering from labiaplasty is a gradual process. Every patient heals at a different pace, but the advice below reflects evidence-based aftercare practices designed to support comfort, minimise complications and optimise healing following your procedure with Merchant City Medical Group.
This guidance should help you understand what to expect, how to care for yourself after surgery, and when to seek support from your care team.
Before you leave the hospital
- Pain management medications will be provided before discharge. Take as prescribed.
- You’ll receive initial wound dressings and instructions on how to change these at home.
- We’ll schedule your first follow-up appointment with our nurse or surgeon before you go home.
- It’s important to arrange transport after your procedure
- Do not drive yourself home.
At Home: Week 1 & Early Recovery
First Week at Home
- Rest & gentle movement: Rest as much as needed, but take short, gentle walks to support circulation.
- Swelling & appearance: Your labia will be swollen initially. This is normal and usually peaks in the first few days before gradually reducing.
- Dressings: Change dressings as instructed. Slight blood staining is common early on.
- Pain & discomfort: Use pain relief as advised. Discomfort is typical in the first 48–72 hours.
- Bathing & hygiene: You may shower daily. Use a mild, fragrance-free cleanser and pat dry gently. A warm salty soak (no longer than 10–12 minutes) may be soothing.
- Cold compresses: If helpful, apply cold compresses wrapped in a thin cloth — only while awake and never directly on the skin.
- Bowel care: Hydrate well and eat high-fibre foods to reduce risk of constipation. Straining increases bleeding risk.
Toileting & Local Care
- It is normal for toilet trips to feel sensitive at first. Use warm water to cleanse after urinating.
- Avoid harsh soaps; choose gentle cleansers only.
- Pat gently — do not rub the area.
Weeks 2–4: Progression & Activity
Weeks 2–4
- Swelling should continue to settle.
- Most people can return to desk-based work within 1–2 weeks.
- Avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting during this period.
- Loose, breathable underwear is recommended; avoid tight clothing.
- Avoid tampons until cleared by your surgeon (typically ~4–6 weeks).
Activities after labiaplasty
Avoid for at least two weeks — smoking delays healing and increases complication risk.
Avoid while taking pain medications; consider avoiding alcohol for up to three weeks post-op.
Plan travel at least 3–4 weeks after surgery to allow for healing and minimise risk.
Follow-Up Appointments
- 1 week: Wound check with our nursing team.
- 4–6 months: Review with your surgeon to assess healing and discuss outcomes.
Contact Us Immediately If…
- Increased swelling or new redness that feels hard or painful.
- Persistent bleeding that doesn’t settle with pressure.
- Fever over 38°C (100.4°F).
- Pain that isn’t relieved by prescribed medication.
- Any discharge that looks unusual or foul-smelling.
Everyone heals differently. Mild sensitivity, temporary asymmetry and changes in colour are normal and improve over time. We’re here to support you every step of the way — just reach out if you have questions or concerns.
Call: 0141 221 9699
or Request an online consultation via our contact form below.
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