Labiaplasty Stitches – What to Expect

Labiaplasty is a type of cosmetic surgery that focuses on reshaping or reducing the size of the inner folds of skin around the vagina, known as the labia minora. This procedure is often chosen by women after they’ve had children, because giving birth can stretch the skin in this area.

In a typical labiaplasty operation, the surgeon will remove or reshape any extra skin. After that, the surgical cuts are sewn shut using special stitches. This article aims to give you a better understanding of the stitches used in labiaplasty and how they contribute to the healing process after the surgery.

RELATED: Recovery after Labiaplasty – Top Tips after Labia Reduction Surgery

For expert advice and care, consider consulting with Centre for Surgery, a specialist clinic for plastic surgery located in London.

Understanding Side Effects and Symptoms Related to Stitches After Labiaplasty Surgery

After undergoing labiaplasty, a surgery that reshapes or reduces the size of the inner vaginal folds, you can expect a certain period of recovery. During this time, you may notice a range of symptoms around the area where the surgery was performed. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and a feeling of soreness. These are normal reactions as your body heals from the surgery, and they are generally related to the surgical incisions rather than the stitches themselves.

RELATED: How to Reduce Labiaplasty Swelling

That said, you might experience a particular sensation of itchiness, which is commonly associated with the stitches used to close the incisions. As your body heals, these stitches are often absorbed, leading to this itchiness. While it can be a bit uncomfortable, it’s usually a sign that the healing process is underway.

So, while stitches play an essential role in closing surgical incisions and facilitating a smooth recovery, they can also contribute to some temporary discomfort, including itchiness.

Choosing Between Permanent and Dissolvable Stitches in Labiaplasty Surgery

When it comes to labiaplasty, the type of stitches used can vary and often depends on the surgeon’s preference and the specific needs of the patient. There are generally two categories of stitches: resorbable (also known as dissolving) stitches and non-resorbable (or permanent) stitches.

Dissolving stitches are generally favoured by medical professionals for several reasons. The primary advantage is the convenience and comfort they offer to the patient. Since these stitches are designed to be absorbed by the body over time, they eliminate the need for a follow-up appointment to have them manually removed. This not only saves time but also spares the patient the discomfort and potential anxiety associated with stitch removal.

On the other hand, permanent stitches are not absorbed by the body and must be removed manually by a nurse or doctor. While they can be very effective, they do require an additional step in the recovery process, which may not be preferable for every patient.

At Centre for Surgery in London, our skilled surgeons typically use Vicryl Rapid stitches. These are a specific type of very fine, absorbable braided sutures that are designed to dissolve on their own as the healing process takes place. This choice reflects our commitment to providing a comfortable and streamlined recovery experience for our patients.

How Long Does It Take For Labiaplasty Stitches to Dissolve?

The duration required for labiaplasty stitches to dissolve can vary based on the type of suture material used in the surgery. At Centre for Surgery, we predominantly use Vicryl Rapid stitches, which are absorbable sutures designed to dissolve naturally over time. Generally, you can expect these stitches to be fully absorbed by your body within 2 to 3 weeks following your labiaplasty procedure.

In addition to the natural dissolving process, your healthcare team will also schedule a follow-up appointment for you. Typically, this check-up occurs 1 to 2 weeks after the surgery. During this visit, your surgeon will closely examine the sutures and the incision sites to ensure that the healing process is going as expected. This is an excellent opportunity to discuss any symptoms or concerns you may have and to confirm that the stitches are dissolving properly.

It’s essential to be attentive to your body’s signals during the recovery period and consult your surgeon if you experience unusual symptoms. This timeline and check-up are part of our comprehensive care approach at Centre for Surgery, designed to provide you with the most comfortable and effective recovery experience possible.

Do Stitches from Labiaplasty Result in Scars?

The concern about scarring is understandable when considering any form of surgery, including labiaplasty. The good news is that scarring from labiaplasty is generally minimal. The incision sites usually blend well with the natural folds and wrinkles of the labia minora tissue. After the dissolving stitches are absorbed by your body, the scar tissue initially becomes firm but will gradually soften over the course of several months.

Activity Restrictions Following Labiaplasty Surgery

The complete healing of incision sites after a labiaplasty usually takes about 6 to 8 weeks. During this period, it’s crucial to avoid activities that may exert pressure on the surgical area. This includes intense physical exercise and sexual activities, as these could risk tearing the stitches and consequently delay the healing process or even distort the final results of your cosmetic surgery.

Aftercare for Labiaplasty Stitches: Tips and Guidelines

After your labiaplasty surgery, your plastic surgeon will supply you with detailed aftercare guidelines to ensure a smooth recovery. As a general rule, you should be able to gently clean the surgical area starting the day following your operation. Mild soap and water are typically sufficient for this, but make sure to pat the area dry instead of rubbing, to avoid any damage to the healing tissue. Patients may also opt to apply liquid paraffin jelly to the stitches, which serves to lubricate the area and minimise discomfort during the healing process.

At Centre for Surgery, we are committed to providing you with expert advice and care for your labiaplasty procedure, including guidelines for aftercare and managing the stitches. If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to reach out to us.

Is Labiaplasty a Worthwhile Procedure?

The question of whether labiaplasty is worth it varies from person to person, depending on their unique circumstances and goals. However, many women who undergo this surgery report significant benefits, both functional and aesthetic.

Physically, excess labial tissue can create discomfort, as it may twist or rub together, leading to irritation or pain. This discomfort can be a constant issue for some women, affecting their daily activities and even their choice of clothing or physical exercise.

From an aesthetic perspective, some women may feel self-conscious or uncomfortable about the appearance of their labia, which can impact their confidence and quality of life. Labiaplasty can address these concerns by reshaping or reducing the size of the labia minora, resulting in a more balanced and symmetrical look.

Many patients find that the surgery has lasting positive effects. They report not only improved comfort levels but also a boost in self-esteem due to the enhanced appearance of their labia.