At the time of your surgery there will be an Anaesthetist to ensure that you are both comfortable and will feel no pain. You will be asleep throughout the operation and the operation site is numbed with local anesthetic at the time of surgery. This will be explained to you during your initial appointment with your surgeon. The anaesthetic means that there is very little discomfort felt in the first 2-3 hours but following that time there will be a period of pain and discomfort which can last for up to ten days. This can be controlled through the use of pain relief medication. The surgeon and nursing staff will instruct you on pain relief when you leave the hospital.
Will there be swelling and bruising?
There will be temporary swelling and bruising following the surgery. This varies with the extent of the operation being performed. It also depends on the individual. Some people bruise easily whilst others do not. You can generally expect some swelling and bruising after surgery. Both should last for no more than ten days. Your will be given instructions on how to take care of your wounds at the time of your consultation when your doctor. The nursing staff will also instruct you on how to take care of your wounds when you leave the hospital.
Will there be scars?
Yes, all surgery produces scars. However a skilled surgeon makes sure that incisions and stitches are carefully placed in the natural folds and creases of the genital area so that any scars are well hidden. During the first 2-3 weeks the stitches will gradually dissolve. This means no stitches need to be removed which allows the tissues to heal the most natural way possible. If you follow the post-operative instructions you will notice that over time the scars will fade and become barely noticeable.
How soon can I go home after the Procedure?You will be discharged 1-3 hours after surgery. Your doctor and nurse will discuss any specific discharge information at that time, as well as information on pain relief, care of your wound etc.
How should I look after my wound at home?
Post operative care is important and care needs to be taken to ensure that your wound heals without infection and to promote healthy skin. This is done by keeping your incisions and the skin area around them clean, dry and to also avoid any rubbing or friction. Your doctor will talk to you about what to expect from your surgery and give you information on what you should do when you go home. Sometimes women may feel quite depressed or anxious before surgery. Sometimes during the rest and partial isolation following surgery, they may start to think about
aspects of their life that normally wouldn’t bother them. This can be temporarily depressing. We recommend that to help you cope during this stage of your healing and recovery from surgery that you have someone in the home with you.What can I do to help recovery?
At the time of your initial consultation and discharge from your surgery your doctor will advise you on care regarding your wound, daily routine and activities. It is important to follow these instructions as well as any specific discharge information given when you go home following your procedure and take plenty of rest!
When will I be able to start exercising?As with any surgery, activities will be restricted for a while. Restrictions include no heavy lifting, sport or exercising for about 4 weeks. It can take 6-8 weeks to fully recover from your surgery.
How long will it take to completely heal?
All women respond to surgery differently but usually complete healing can take up to three months.
