Labiaplasty Recovery: What to Expect Week by Week

Labiaplasty — most commonly a reduction of the labia minora — is one of the most requested aesthetic gynaecology procedures. Recovery is generally straightforward, but knowing what to expect week by week helps patients feel calmer and better prepared.

This guide is educational. Your own recovery plan will be personalised after your consultation with Dr Berra.

The first 48 hours

Expect some swelling, mild bruising and tenderness. Ice packs (over clothing), loose cotton underwear and prescribed pain relief make this phase comfortable for most patients. Walking gently is encouraged; prolonged sitting is not.

Week 1

• Swelling peaks around day 3–5 and then begins to settle.
• Most patients manage day-to-day activities at home.
• Showers are usually allowed; baths, swimming and saunas are not.
• Loose clothing is essential.

Weeks 2–3

• Many patients return to desk-based work.
• Light walking is encouraged; gym, running and cycling are not yet resumed.
• Stitches (if not dissolvable) are typically reviewed.

Weeks 4–6

• Gradual return to exercise, guided by comfort.
• Sexual intercourse is usually reintroduced from around 6 weeks, only after clinical review.
• Residual swelling continues to settle.

Months 2–6

Final shape and sensation settle over several months. Scars mature and fade progressively.

When to contact your clinical team

Any significant bleeding, increasing pain, fever, or unusual discharge should be reported promptly. Video follow-up with Dr Berra makes this easy for international patients.

Considering labiaplasty?

If you would like a private conversation, book a video consultation or start with our personal assessment. Both are confidential, and suitability is only decided together with you.