Labiaplasty is a popular procedure for improving the appearance of the genital area or relieving discomfort caused by enlarged or asymmetrical labia. However, potential side effects include pain, swelling, bruising, tenderness, bleeding, and infection. It's essential to choose a qualified surgeon to minimize the risk of complications and follow post-operative instructions carefully.
Common Side Effects Of Labiaplasty
After labiaplasty, it is common to experience physical discomfort in the treated area. You may experience pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness in the labia. This discomfort can last for several days or even weeks after the procedure. Your doctor may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage the physical discomfort. You may also be advised to apply ice packs to the treated area to reduce swelling.
Other side effects include the following:
Scarring
Labiaplasty involves making incisions in the labia to remove excess tissue. As with any surgery, scarring is a common side effect. While the scars may fade over time, they may still be visible. Your doctor may use dissolvable stitches or recommend scar creams or ointments to minimize scarring. Following her aftercare instructions ensures proper healing and reduces scarring.
Changes in Sensation
Labiaplasty can also cause changes in sensation in the treated area. You may experience numbness, tingling, or hypersensitivity in the labia. These changes in sensation are usually temporary and should resolve on their own over time. To manage changes in sensation, your doctor may recommend gentle massage or desensitization exercises. It's important to avoid sexual activity and other activities that may irritate the treated area until you have fully healed.
Serious Side Effects Of Labiaplasty
While labiaplasty is generally considered a safe procedure, there are some severe side effects you should be aware of before deciding to undergo the surgery.
INFECTION
Infection is a potential risk associated with any surgical procedure, including labiaplasty. After the surgery, you may experience redness, swelling, and tenderness in the surgical area, which are normal side effects of the healing process. However, it may be a sign of infection if you experience fever, chills, or discharge from the surgical site. Infections can be serious and require additional medical treatment, including antibiotics or hospitalization.
BLEEDING
Bleeding is another potential side effect of labiaplasty. While some bleeding is normal in the days immediately following the surgery, excessive bleeding can be a sign of a more serious issue. If you experience heavy bleeding, you should contact your doctor immediately. In some cases, additional surgery may be required to stop the bleeding.
ADVERSE REACTION TO ANESTHESIA
Labiaplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia, carrying its own risks. While rare, some people may experience an adverse reaction to the anesthesia, which can be life-threatening. Symptoms of an adverse reaction to anesthesia may include difficulty breathing, low blood pressure, and an irregular heartbeat. You should seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these symptoms.
Preventing Side Effects of Labiaplasty
If you are considering labiaplasty, it is important to understand the potential side effects and take steps to prevent them. Here are some tips to help you minimize the risk of complications:
Choosing a Qualified Surgeon
Choosing a qualified surgeon is crucial in preventing side effects of labiaplasty. Make sure it is, a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in genital surgery, is a great option to consider.
Following Post-Operative Care Instructions
Following your doctors post-operative care instructions is crucial for preventing side effects of labiaplasty. These instructions may include the following:
Taking prescribed medication to manage pain and prevent infection
Keeping the surgical area clean and dryAvoiding sexual activity, tampon use, and strenuous
exercise for several weeks
Wearing loose, comfortable clothing and avoiding tight underwear
Using ice packs to reduce swelling and discomfort
It is also essential to attend all of your follow-up appointments with your doctor to ensure that you are healing correctly and to address any concerns or complications that may arise. By taking these steps, you can help prevent side effects of labiaplasty and achieve the best possible results from your surgery.
Adapted from: Modern Women's Health
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