Publicado por Dr. Miguel Fernández Calderón: 27/01/2022
Recovery: how long do labiaplasty stitches last?
Blog of Aesthetic News, Tips and Care
Labiaplasty in Madrid is one of the surgical procedures most in demand among women in recent years. It usually means a big change in quality of life, since it solves constant problems of discomfort and irritation, which in turn translate into low self-esteem and confidence. One of the keys to a proper recovery is the healing of the stitches. That is why most patients ask themselves: how long do labiaplasty stitches last? Below we answer that question.
But first, what does a labiaplasty solve?
With a labiaplasty we change the size and shape of the labia majora and minora in the female intimate area. It is quick, straightforward surgery usually performed under local anaesthetic and therefore as day surgery.
However, it is especially important to attend to the necessary aftercare, since getting the best result depends on it.
Before explaining the suturing and healing process of a labiaplasty in Madrid, it is important to understand the benefits of this procedure. With a labiaplasty we get a double benefit, since we solve aesthetic and health problems in a single procedure.
In the first place, one of the most common complaints among patients who have a labiaplasty is pain during sexual intercourse. This can be caused by various factors within the shape and size of the intimate area, which is why it is essential to carry out a good study before performing the operation.
Besides this pain during sex, there is also constant discomfort when the patient wears very tight clothing, such as sports leggings or bikinis. This causes problems with self-esteem and confidence, as well as a reluctance to do certain activities as natural as sport or going to the beach or the pool.
Physically, it is also common to feel discomfort during everyday actions such as crossing your legs while sitting. To this must be added the psychological problems stemming from embarrassment about the appearance of the genital area.
Finally, if the labia majora or minora are excessively large and swollen, we may suffer redness, irritation and swelling in this area, which can cause great discomfort and not only that, but also the appearance of infections that put our health at risk.
How long do labiaplasty stitches last?
Recovery is essential in a labiaplasty (and in any surgery) for getting the result we want and making sure no complications arise at any point.
The suturing and subsequent healing of a labiaplasty is a delicate process that we have to respect at all times. Fortunately, most labiaplasty sutures are dissolvable and the stitches end up falling out on their own, without needing to be removed. This process can take between 3 and 4 weeks, which answers the question of how long labiaplasty stitches last.
Types of suture
The types of suture used for this surgery are absorbable and non-absorbable.
Absorbable sutures are used more often and have the advantage of dissolving naturally over time. Which means the surgeon does not have to remove them at an appointment.
Non-absorbable ones, by contrast, do not dissolve and need to be removed by a medical professional.
Typical duration according to studies and clinics
Non-absorbable sutures are removed around two weeks after the procedure, while absorbable ones take between two and four weeks to dissolve completely.
About two weeks after the operation, you need to go for a check-up at the clinic so the doctor can examine the state of the scars. With this we rule out the risk of infection and see which stitches have fallen out and which have not.
After the first check-up, it is advisable to wait another two weeks until the healing process is complete. In this period, most of the sutures will already have dissolved, and it will be time to remove any that have not fallen out naturally.
Throughout this time, we must keep the area clean, also avoiding excess moisture that encourages bacteria to grow. If an infection occurred, we could suffer a clear delay in the healing process, with the risk of even having to remove the stitches and start the healing process again.
Factors that influence how long the stitches last
How long the stitches last depends on several factors. Among the most important are the technique used during surgery, the type of suture and the patient’s capacity to heal.
Surgical technique and type of suture
These factors play a crucial role. Generally, absorbable sutures are used that dissolve on their own, removing the need to have them taken out at an appointment.
The time they take to dissolve varies according to the material, but it is usually between one and three weeks.
Individual capacity to heal
Every person’s capacity to heal is different. It can vary according to age, general state of health and other factors.
Aftercare and how it affects the stitches falling out
It is important to follow medical instructions to ensure proper healing after a labiaplasty. The following care is essential.
Hygiene, rest and recommended clothing
To keep the area clean it is recommended to wash it with water and a neutral soap. Then make sure you dry the whole area carefully.
During recovery wear loose, comfortable clothing. Avoid tight garments that could cause friction.
Get the right amount of rest, according to what your doctor says, to allow the body to recover completely and without complications. Ignoring medical instructions can lengthen the recovery process or even cause setbacks or additional complications.
Specific care: cold compresses, avoiding friction, antibiotics/anti-inflammatories
Other things to bear in mind are:
- Apply cold to the area to reduce swelling and pain.
- Avoid friction in the operated area.
- Follow the surgeon’s instructions regarding the use of antibiotics to prevent infection.
- Anti-inflammatories also help control pain and swelling.
- Avoid intense physical activity and sexual intercourse for six weeks.
When will I be able to have sex again?
Once we know how long labiaplasty stitches last, another big question our patients ask is when they will be able to have sex again safely and painlessly.
This is the main hope of many of our patients, since, after years of discomfort and insecurity, exploring their sexuality safely and confidently is without doubt a great privilege for them.
Well, the time we have to wait before having sex can vary between 4 and 6 weeks after the operation. That way the healing process comes to a definitive end.
In any case, it is essential that before making the decision to have sex again, we have a thorough check-up at the clinic. Delays in the healing process and the presence of infection will be ruled out.
To sum up
If we have any doubt about the recovery process after any female genital surgery, the best thing is to go to the clinic we trust, where they will give us all the information we need and the aftercare to follow.
Would you like to know more about procedures such as labiaplasty or abdominoplasty at Sculpture Clinic? Get in touch and clear up all your questions.
At Sculpture Clinic we specialise in genital surgery and labiaplasty, thanks to our great team of professionals. We will listen to your doubts and questions, aiming to give you the best care so that your experience with us is a great one.
The Sculpture Clinic Team
Together we are stronger
Dr. Miguel Fernández Calderón
Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon
Dr. Irene Otero
Anaesthetist
Dr. Juan Godoy
Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon
Dr. Estefanía Alonso
Plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon
