Are breast implants safe?

The FDA’s longstanding position is that implants are safe as long as women understand they can have complications, including scarring, pain, swelling and implant rupture. However, the FDA has been grappling with how to manage a recently confirmed link to a rare cancer. FDA regulators said it is “impossible” for them to determine how frequently the cancer — a form of lymphoma — occurs because the U.S. does not track the total number of implants on the market. Estimates of the frequency of the disease range from 1 in 3,000 women to 1 in 50,000+. As of July 2019, the FDA requested that Allergan voluntarily recall certain breast implants and tissue expanders from the market. Get more information about breast implant removal here. Most confirmed cases of the disease, known as breast implant-associated anaplastic large cell lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), have involved a particular brand of textured implant that we do not use. The disease is not breast cancer, but a form of cancer that attacks the immune system and usually forms in the scar tissue surrounding implants. It grows slowly. Doctors can successfully treat this disease by removing the implants.

What are the risks associated with breast augmentation?

Smoking, vaping and nicotine use increase the risk of complications after any surgery, including breast augmentation. As such, we strongly urge discontinuing the use of tobacco products one to two months prior to surgery, and one month after surgery, to ensure optimal healing and results. Some of the possible complications associated with breast augmentation include: Anesthesia risks Bleeding Blood clots Asymmetry Infection Changes in nipple or breast sensation Unfavorable scarring Wrong or faulty position of the implant Implant leakage or rupture The formation of tight scar tissue around the implant (capsular contracture) Fluid accumulation (seroma) Wrinkling of the skin over the implant Pain, which may persist Possibility of revision

Do you offer financing or special pricing?

At Fox Valley Plastic Surgery, we offer multiple discounts for cosmetic procedures: 15% off the surgeon’s fee for your second cosmetic procedure, and 30% off the surgeon’s fee for the third procedure. We also discount the operating room fee 50% for your second procedure and any that come after, while anesthesia charges by time. We also partner with reputable companies like CareCredit® and Alphaeon® Credit, which offer low or zero-interest financing to make your transformation more manageable. If you have any questions about payment or financing, don’t hesitate to contact our office. Our team will be happy to guide you through the available options to help you get the look you want with convenient monthly payments that fit your budget.

When can I return to work after my breast augmentation?

The ability to return to work depends on whether the implant was placed under or over the pectoral muscle, and the patient’s pain tolerance and motivation. If your implants are placed over the muscle (subglandular), you can expect to take two to three days off before returning to desk work. If your implants are placed under the muscle (submuscular), you should plan to take off five to seven days, by which time you can comfortably discontinue the use of pain killers. Lifting is absolutely forbidden for the first seven to 10 days, so an early return to work is not advised for patients with active jobs. Avoid strenuous activity for the first two weeks, and do not lift anything heavier than 10 pounds before for the first six weeks (this includes small children and pets). While it is important to rest frequently during the first week, we recommend walking 15-20 minutes four times a day to help prevent blood clots from forming.

Are breast implants right for me?

Breast implants can help you achieve a fuller, more proportional figure, but there are several things to consider before undergoing breast augmentation, such as: Breast implants are not guaranteed to last a lifetime, and future surgery may be required to replace one or both implants Pregnancy, weight loss, and menopause may influence the appearance of augmented breasts over the course of your lifetime Breast augmentation patients require regular examinations to ensure the health of their breasts and the condition of their implants Patients who are considering implants should carefully weigh the risks and benefits of breast augmentation and make the decision that is right for them. Download booklets from the Patient Forms page to learn more. Specifically, please read at least one of these booklets: Mentor® Breast Implants Patient Education or Sientra® Breast Implants Patient Education.

Labiaplasty Recovery FAQ

Date August 6, 2026

Categories Lifestyle Therapies

If you’re considering labiaplasty, it’s natural to have questions about recovery, healing, and what to expect after your procedure. Understanding the recovery process can help you feel more confident and prepared as you heal.

Labiaplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reduce or reshape the labia minora or labia majora for functional concerns, cosmetic preferences, or both. While every patient’s experience is unique, following your surgeon’s postoperative instructions is the best way to promote healing and achieve optimal results.

Below are answers to some of the most common questions patients ask before and after labiaplasty surgery.

How soon after labiaplasty can I have sex or use a tampon?

Patients may resume sexual intercourse and tampon use approximately four weeks after surgery, provided healing is progressing normally. During the first month, the surgical site is still healing, and avoiding vaginal penetration helps protect the incisions and reduce the risk of complications.

Always attend your follow-up appointments and receive clearance from your surgeon before resuming these activities, as healing times can vary from person to person.

When can I swim or take a bath after labiaplasty?

You may return to swimming, soaking in a bathtub, or using a hot tub once your dissolvable sutures have dissolved and your incisions have completely healed and remain closed.

Until then, showers are typically the safest option. Avoiding prolonged water exposure during the early stages of healing helps minimize the risk of infection and allows the incisions to heal properly.

Will I be able to sit after surgery?

Yes. You can sit after your procedure, although you may experience temporary discomfort during the first several days of recovery. Mild swelling and tenderness are expected and gradually improve as healing progresses.

Many patients find that sitting on a soft cushion or changing positions frequently helps improve comfort while the tissues recover.

Will I have stitches? Do they need to be removed?

Yes. Dissolvable sutures are used during labiaplasty to close the incisions. Because these sutures dissolve naturally, they do not need to be removed.

Most sutures dissolve within approximately 10 to 14 days, although complete healing continues beyond this timeframe. It’s important not to pull at or trim dissolvable sutures unless instructed by your surgeon.

When can I exercise after labiaplasty?

Light exercise may be resumed approximately one week after surgery. More strenuous activities—including running, cycling, weightlifting, high-impact workouts, and vigorous exercise—may typically resume after 14 days, depending on your healing progress and your surgeon’s recommendations.

Listen to your body during recovery. If an activity causes discomfort or increased swelling, it may be a sign that additional healing time is needed.

Will I lose sensation after labiaplasty?

No. Patients generally do not experience loss of sensation following labiaplasty.

During the healing process, temporary swelling or sensitivity changes may occur, but these typically improve as recovery progresses. If you have concerns about sensation during your recovery, discuss them with your surgeon during your follow-up visits.

Will I have scars after labiaplasty?

Like any surgical procedure, labiaplasty results in scars where the incisions are made. However, these scars are generally located within the natural contours of the labia and often become less noticeable over time.

Every patient heals differently, and scar appearance depends on individual healing, surgical technique, and following postoperative care instructions.

Is bruising normal after surgery?

Yes. Some bruising or light bleeding is normal after labiaplasty and is considered part of the healing process.

Bruising, swelling, and mild discomfort are common during the first few days after surgery and typically improve steadily over the following weeks. Contact your surgeon if you experience excessive bleeding, severe pain, or symptoms that concern you.

Can fat transfer be performed during my labiaplasty?

Yes. Fat transfer can be performed during the same surgical procedure for patients who desire additional volume or rejuvenation of the labia.

Your surgeon will discuss whether combining these procedures is appropriate based on your goals, anatomy, and overall treatment plan.

When can I resume laser hair removal after surgery?

Patients should wait approximately six to eight weeks after surgery before resuming laser hair removal treatments. Allowing adequate healing helps reduce irritation and supports optimal recovery.

If you’re unsure whether you’re ready to restart treatment, consult your surgeon before scheduling your next laser session.

Can I have labiaplasty if I have HPV?

Patients with HPV may still be candidates for labiaplasty. However, surgery may trigger an outbreak in some individuals. Your surgeon may recommend preventive antiviral medication, such as acyclovir or Valtrex, before your procedure.

Discuss your complete medical history with your provider so the safest treatment plan can be developed for you.

How long does it take to recover from labiaplasty?

Recovery occurs in stages. Most patients are able to return to many normal daily activities within the first one to two weeks, while complete healing continues over the following weeks and months.

Swelling gradually decreases over time, and your final results become more apparent as healing progresses. Following your surgeon’s postoperative instructions and attending all follow-up appointments are essential for achieving the best possible outcome.

What should I expect during the first week after surgery?

During the first week, it’s normal to experience swelling, tenderness, mild bruising, and some discomfort around the surgical area. Resting, limiting strenuous activity, and carefully following your postoperative care instructions can help support the healing process.

While many patients feel significantly better after the first several days, everyone’s recovery is different. Giving your body adequate time to heal is one of the most important parts of achieving excellent long-term results.

When should I contact my surgeon?

Although mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort are expected after labiaplasty, you should contact your surgeon if you experience symptoms that seem unusual or concerning. Your surgical team can determine whether your recovery is progressing normally and answer any questions that arise during healing.

Never hesitate to reach out if you are unsure about your recovery or postoperative care.

Schedule a Labiaplasty Consultation

If you’re considering labiaplasty or have questions about recovery, scheduling a consultation is the best way to learn whether the procedure is right for you. During your visit, your surgeon can discuss your goals, explain what to expect before and after surgery, and develop a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs.

Every patient heals differently, and following your surgeon’s recommendations is the best way to ensure a safe recovery and beautiful, natural-looking results.