Nymphoplasty, or labia minora reduction surgery, is a surgical procedure performed on the labia minora. cosmetic surgery increasingly common in Paris. It is intended for women who wish to correct functional discomfort or modify the appearance of their private parts. While the operation is relatively simple and quick, the recovery period plays an important role in the final result and the patient's long-term comfort.
What post-operative care is required? How long does recovery take? What advice do I need to follow for optimal recovery? This article guides you through all the stages of recovery after nymphoplasty.
Nymphoplasty, or labioplasty, is a perfectly controlled surgical procedure whose aim is to reduce the size of the labia minora or correct drooping labia minora. It's a kind of labia minora facelift.
Nymphoplasty may be performed for aesthetic reasons, but some women have recourse to it for functional reasons: discomfort, irritation, pain, sport...
The operation is performed under general anesthesia, usually on an outpatient basis. It lasts between 30 and 40 minutes, with very little risk of surgical complications.
The first few days after the operation are marked by a swelling (edema), pain, slight bleeding and sometimes bruising. Bleeding may last a few days, swelling around 15 days and bruising between 2 and 3 weeks. A feeling of tightness may also be experienced. These symptoms are normal and experienced by the vast majority of patients.
The swelling may be asymmetrical, but this is nothing to worry about. The vulva will become symmetrical once the swelling has disappeared.
Pain can be relieved with simple analgesics (paracetamol).
The sutures used are absorbable. They are eliminated naturally after about 15 days.
The final result is visible 2 months after the edema has subsided.. Mucous membranes heal very well and scars are usually invisible after 6 months.
Follow-up consultations are offered at 4 weeks, 3 months and 12 months after the procedure.
Full recovery takes around 4 to 6 weeks.
Here are the average times for resuming certain activities:
If you feel pain during physical activity or sexual intercourse, stop the activity immediately. If pain persists for several months, it will be necessary to make an appointment with your surgeon for a follow-up consultation.
Intimate hygiene should be carried out without rubbing after each visit to the toilet, using water and a fragrance-free intimate soap. The vulva should then be dried thoroughly, using a clean, soft towel. It's advisable to dry the vulva with light tapping or pressure, without wiping, to avoid pulling on the stitches.
There are no bandages to apply.
In the event of minor bleeding in the first few days, you can use intimate protection. Otherwise, you don't need any protection as long as you're wearing clean cotton underwear, changed daily.
After a labioplasty, it is common to experience mild to moderate pain. They can be treated with conventional analgesics such as paracetamol.
A temporary swelling (edema) is observed for 15 days.
From light bleeding may occur in the first few days and bruises may persist for 2 to 3 weeks.
Many patients experience discomfort when walking for the first few days, This is particularly true of sutures.
It is also possible to feel sensitivity disorders in the labia minora.
Complications following nymphoplasty are rare. Potential risks include :
If you experience significant pain around the scar that is resistant to painkillers, contact your surgeon as soon as possible.
Before the operation, you can prepare for your post-nymphoplasty convalescence by going shopping:
Patients are generally very satisfied with their nymphoplasty. According to one study, 95 % were satisfied at 6 months, and 84 % were «extremely» satisfied. Functional discomfort improved in 94 % at 6 months, and 90 % felt an improvement in aesthetic discomfort.
However, psychological support can be useful in case of dissatisfaction or post-operative concerns.
To preserve stitches and recent scars, it is necessary to restrict certain activities:
The recovery period after nymphoplasty varies from patient to patient, but it is generally advisable to wait 6 to 8 weeks before engaging in sexual activity again.
This time is necessary to allow the operated area to heal completely, which is essential to reduce the risk of complications, in particular the following infections or irritations.
During these few weeks, the labia minora will regain their finesse and suppleness, characteristics that are essential for a pleasurable sexual experience.
Normal sensitivity of the vulva gradually returns, returning to its initial state after around 6 months.
Aesthetically, labiaplasty improves the appearance of the vulva. As a result, patients often feel more confident and attractive to their partner(s).
It is recommended not to become pregnant during the first post-operative year in order to achieve satisfactory stabilization of the shape and volume of the labia minora.
Scars fade over the weeks and are virtually invisible after 6 months.
Yes, during the first few weeks, it is normal to feel a tugging sensation. If the sensation persists after 3 weeks, you should consult your surgeon.
As a general rule, your surgeon will suggest follow-up consultations 4 weeks, 3 months and 12 months after the operation.
Yes, you can travel after 2 to 3 weeks if there are no complications.
If you experience severe itching for several weeks, it is advisable to make an appointment with your surgeon. However, it's normal to feel a little itchy for the first few weeks, mainly due to the scarring process.
Dr Jérémy Djian is a plastic surgeon based at 5 square Thiers, near the Victor Hugo roundabout, in the 16th arrondissement of Paris.
He trained in Paris and remains attached to the hospital in the prestigious department of Pr Laurent Lantieri.
