Which is:
Ninfoplasty or labioplasty is a plastic surgery that consists of the reduction of the small vaginal lips in women who have hypertrophy of that area.
This surgery is relatively fast, lasting about 1 hour and usually the woman only spends 1 night hospitalized, being discharged the next day. The recovery is a bit uncomfortable, so it is recommended to stay home, and not go to work the first 10 to 15 days after surgery.
For whom it is indicated
Ninfoplasty, which is the reduction of the labia minora, can be performed in the following situations:
- When the small vaginal lips are very large;
- They cause discomfort during sexual intercourse;
- They cause discomfort, shame or low self-esteem.
Either way, before deciding to do the surgery, you should talk to the doctor and clarify any doubts.
How is the surgery done
The surgery is done in an outpatient setting with local anesthesia, spinal anesthesia, with or without sedation, and lasts about 40 minutes to one hour. During the procedure, the doctor cuts off the labia minora and sews its edges so that no scar is visible.
The suture is made with absorbable wires, which end up being absorbed by the body, so it is not necessary to return to the hospital to remove the stitches. However, in certain cases the doctor may opt for common points, which should be withdrawn after 8 days.
Generally, the woman is discharged the day after the procedure and can return to work and her daily activities about 10 to 15 days later. However, one should wait about 3 weeks to a month to return to having sex and exercising.
In the first week after surgery it is not recommended to sit, and it is best to remain lying down, with legs slightly higher than the rest of the trunk to facilitate venous return, and decrease pain and swelling of the genital area.
Benefits of Reducing Small Vaginal Lips
Ninfoplasty improves self-esteem for women who are ashamed of their bodies and who feel bad for having larger-than-normal lips, prevents infections because small, bulging lips can lead to accumulation of urine secretions that can lead to infections and because there is greater friction and wound formation.
In addition, it also improves sexual performance, since too large lips can cause pain during intimate contact or embarrassment of the woman before the partner. After the surgery, the woman feels more comfortable with all kinds of clothes, even if they are fair, because the vaginal lips will not be so prominent as to disturb the underwear or jeans, for example.
How is recovery from surgery?
How it is soon after the surgery
After the surgery it is normal for the intimate region to become quite swollen, reddish and with purple marks, being normal and expected changes. The woman should rest for about 8 days, lying on the bed or couch with pillow support, and wear light, loose clothing.
It is also recommended to repeatedly do lymphatic drainage during the day to decrease swelling, and consequently pain, and facilitate healing and complete recovery.
When can I see the final result
Although recovery is not the same for all women, usually complete healing is about 6 months later, which is the time when healing has fully ended and the end result can be observed, but small changes can be observed day after day.
How to do local hygiene
During recovery, the vaginal region should be kept clean and dry and ice packs may be placed in place, especially in the first few days, to relieve inflammation and fight swelling. Cold packs should be put on for 15 minutes, 3 times daily.
After urinating and defecating the woman should always wash the region with cold water or saline solution, and apply an antiseptic solution with a clean gauze. Your doctor may also recommend that you put on a layer of healing or bactericidal ointment to prevent the itching that occurs during healing and prevent infection. This care should be taken after every trip to the bathroom for at least 12 to 15 days.
A soft, intimate absorbent should be used, which can absorb the blood as much as possible, but without pressing the region. The panties should be cotton and wide enough to feel comfortable the first few days. It is not recommended to wear tight clothing such as leggings, pantyhose or jeans in the first 20 days.
How to reduce pain and swelling
The woman can take 1g of acetaminophen every 8 hours for pain relief and discomfort in the first 10 days. Or you can intercalate 1g of paracetamol + 600mg of Ibuprofen, every 6 hours.
Restrictions
It is not recommended to drive the first few days after surgery because the driver's position is unfavorable and can cause pain and bleeding. You should also not smoke or drink alcohol until 10 days after surgery.
See what to eat to speed healing recovery
Who should not do
Ninfoplasty is contraindicated in people who have uncontrolled diabetes, hypertension and heart failure. It is not recommended to undergo surgery during menstruation, because the menstrual blood can make the region more humid, and favor infection.