In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of women opting to undergo a Labiaplasty.
One of the more popular choices in female genital cosmetic surgery is labiaplasty, an outpatient procedure that reshapes and reduces the size of the labia minora.
The rise of labiaplasty establishes a shift in the mindset around plastic surgery. A procedure that would have been quietly and awkwardly discussed five years ago is now a right that many women believe they are entitled to. Data released by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) reported an increase of 39% in 2016, with over 12,000 procedures performed last year alone.
And while many women undergo the procedure to great success, the question remains: how long do you have to wait before having sex?
Recovery & Intimacy
Generally, it can take a period of six to eight weeks before the vagina recovers from labiaplasty. And while most women can return to work and resume other activities after the first ten days, any form of sexual activity must be avoided. This includes oral sex, digital penetration, and masturbation.
While some surgeons allow patients to stimulate the clitoris after the fourth week gently, it is advised to take caution. Friction and arousal will increase blood flow to the vagina and leave the area vulnerable to complications such as bleeding, swelling, and discoloration.
Sexual activity can resume past the sixth week when the changes to the vaginal area have begun to settle. Because the area is still sensitive, there is a good chance that many women will experience some discomfort. So, it is essential to take things slowly at the beginning.
Once women have made it through the recovery period and begin to enjoy regular sex, they experience a renewed sense of sexual confidence along with heightened clitoral sensations. The reduction of tissue exposes the clitoral hood and increases stimulation during sexual activity, making orgasms a lot easier to attain. This can be incredibly beneficial to women who experience difficulty when reaching an orgasm.
Self-Empowerment
Like many men in regards to the length and size of their penises, women can be particularly sensitive about the appearance of their vaginas. At this time, there are not enough resources on female genital health that shed light on the various shapes a vagina can take. This leads many young women to wrongfully believe that the typical form of the vagina is what’s seen in most pornographic films.
This can have an incredibly detrimental effect on a woman’s self-esteem and sexual confidence, making intimacy difficult to initiate.
While many women opt for the procedure to cosmetically enhance the look of their vaginas, there are also a significant number of women who undergo the procedure to address chafing and discomfort. Regardless of the reason, a simple change in the appearance of the vagina can have a lasting impact on a woman’s self-esteem, personal comfort, and sexual satisfaction.
Interested in Labiaplasty?
Our Top plastic surgeons here in Memorial Plastic Surgery perform labiaplasty to patients in Houston & Clear Lake, Texas.
Read more about
Labiaplasty in Houston >
Labiaplasty & You
While many arguments are surrounding the procedure, it is hard to deny the number of women who have benefited from a successful labiaplasty within the past year.
This procedure is not for everyone. Every woman holds her body to her standard, and it is beautiful and unique for what it is. If anything, accepting the body’s natural form and finding comfort within it is perhaps the single most empowering at anyone can do for themselves.
Vaginal Rejuvenation is not a means to an end, but it is a procedure for any woman seeking to complete her body to her design. With realistic expectations, a healthy attitude, and a board-certified plastic surgeon’s guidance, labiaplasty can be the most satisfying thing a woman can do for herself.
