Special labiaplasty stitches are almost always used during labiaplasty surgery. In this article, we’ll outline what you can expect from these labiaplasty stitches, in addition to more information on the healing process following labiaplasty Las Vegas.
What Is Labiaplasty?
Labiaplasty aims to reduce the size of the labia minora, or inner labia. For some women, labial reduction is necessary as the inner folds of the labia can be excessively long and large. This may be a hereditary issue, or it may occur after massive weight loss or pregnancy.
In any case, large labia can be attributed to causing discomfort during intimacy with a partner. Many women also find it embarrassing to wear tight-fitting clothing or bathing suits in front of others.
Labiaplasty Recovery Stitches
Most plastic surgeons will use resorbable labiaplasty stitches (dissolving stitches) after removing the excess skin from your labia minora. These stitches will slowly by absorbed by the body over time.
This means you won’t need to return to your surgeon to have the stitches removed at a later date, which can be time-consuming and uncomfortable. You may still need to return for a followup appointment, but there will be no occasion for “stitch removal”.
In some cases, a surgeon may need to use permanent stitches (those that are not resorbable). Your surgeon will make this call based on their knowledge, your anatomy and the surgical area, and the precise details of your surgery.
When Do Labiaplasty Stitches Fall Out?
Typically, it takes around three to four weeks for labiaplasty stitches to be totally gone.
Cosmetic Surgery Procedure Steps: Labiaplasty
Let’s take a closer look at the surgical technique and procedure steps used for most labiaplasty procedures.
The labiaplasty procedure first involves a consultation appointment to assess what your goals are and determine the best course of surgery to achieve them.
At the time of operation, the patient will first be administered anesthesia. Either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation can be used.
Your surgeon will then make the necessary incisions. There are two main incision pattern options when performing this surgical procedure.
First, there is the trim procedure, which involves simply trimming the outer portions of the labia minora so that they are flush with the labia majora. The incision sites are sutured closed.
Next, there is the wedge method of performing labiaplasty. This procedure cuts a v-shaped wedge into each labium to remove the excess labial tissue. The edges are then sutured together.
Will I Have a Labiaplasty Scar?
Any time there is an incision during plastic surgery, a scar results. However, it is extremely rare for a patient to be self-conscious about labiaplasty scars. This is because any type of labiaplasty scar will naturally blend into the vaginal folds and wrinkles of the labia, making it almost totally invisible.
Furthermore, all scars naturally improve in appearance and texture over time. Your labiaplasty scar tissue may feel slightly firm and be somewhat raised in the weeks following your surgery. But overall, the labia minora tissue should flatten out, soften, and fade in the weeks to come.
While these changes can be difficult to picture because labiaplasty before and after after photos are not frequently found online, your surgeon will be able to tell you more about the healing process, avoiding delayed wound healing, and scarring at your initial consultation appointment.
How Do I Keep the Area Clean After Labiaplasty?
Following your labiaplasty surgery, your surgeon will give you a detailed list of recovery instructions. Be sure to follow all of these instructions closely as they are not only meant to optimize your labiaplasty results, but they are also for your safety. Although rare, labiaplasty complications such as excessive bleeding, wound separation, infection, and other issues can occur.
In order to keep your private area clean following surgery, be sure that you are cleared to bathe before doing so. Once cleared, use lukewarm water, and do not use soap for at least the first week or so (see your recovery instructions).
Be gentle when cleaning the area of healing tissue as you do not want to stretch, strain, or otherwise agitate your incisions and stitches. This could cause wound separation, which would require an additional visit to your surgeon and possibly another procedure to fix the issue. It may also lead to infection.
Finally, when using the restroom, be sure you are being gentle when wiping as well. Instead of actually wiping the area, simply pat or dab your labia with a clean piece of toilet paper. You do not want to rub or press hard.
Constipation Following Labiaplasty
If constipation is an issue after your labiaplasty, be sure to speak with your surgeon as soon as possible. You do not want constipation to worsen as this is a condition that becomes increasingly difficult to fix over time. Often, medications can be prescribed to aid with this.
FAQ: Labiaplasty Stitches
What if I accidentally make my labiaplasty stitches undone?
Labiaplasty stitches opening up is a rare occurrence. Naturally, if a wound separation does occur, it’s important to contact the practice where you had your labiaplasty performed as soon as possible.
Will I have swelling after my labiaplasty procedure?
Post-labiaplasty swelling is common initially but usually diminishes within days. By one week, most swelling from the procedure should have diminished.
When can you have sex after labiaplasty?
Patients frequently want to know when they can have sex after labiaplasty as many patients are seeking this surgery because sex has been painful in the past.
For the majority of patients, sexual intercourse may be resumed after the four-week mark. Having intercourse before this time may put you at risk for infection and/or agitating or separating your incision sites.
What techniques do surgeons use to manage excess skin during labiaplasty?
Plastic surgeons typically use precise trimming or wedge techniques to remove excess tissue. They promote healing by suturing meticulously and recommending post-operative care
How long do stitches take to dissolve after labiaplasty surgery?
Stitches used in labiaplasty surgery typically dissolve within 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of sutures used and individual healing factors.
Request a Consultation With Dr. Rachel Mason
Female board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Rachel Mason performs labiaplasty surgery and other vaginal rejuvenation procedures for patients at her Las Vegas practice.
If you are interested in a labiaplasty procedure and would like to find out more about the surgical procedure and see if you’re a candidate for surgery, please contact our office today. We look forward to your call!