Vaginoplasty Surgery Recovery Tips - Time, Diet, Lifestyle Changes

What to eat and avoid after vaginoplasty surgery?

After vaginoplasty, it is important to follow a proper diet to promote healing and prevent any complications. Here are some general guidelines for foods to eat and avoid:

Foods to Eat After Vaginoplasty:

• High-fiber foods – Eating high-fiber foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can help prevent constipation, which is a common issue after surgery.
• Lean proteins – Incorporating lean proteins such as fish, chicken, turkey, tofu, and legumes into your diet can help promote healing and provide your body with the necessary nutrients.
• Probiotic-rich foods – Eating foods such as yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables can help promote gut health and prevent infections.
• Hydrating foods – Drinking plenty of water and eating foods with high water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and celery, can help prevent dehydration and promote healing.

Foods to Avoid After Vaginoplasty:

• Spicy and acidic foods – Avoiding spicy and acidic foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, and spicy peppers can help prevent irritation to the surgical site.
• Alcohol and caffeine – Both alcohol and caffeine can interfere with healing and cause dehydration, so it is best to avoid these drinks.
• Processed foods – Processed foods such as chips, candy, and fast food can be high in sodium, sugar, and unhealthy fats, which can hinder healing and cause inflammation.
• Dairy products – While it is important to consume probiotics after surgery, dairy products can cause constipation and inflammation, so it is best to avoid them or limit them in your diet.

It is important to consult with your healthcare provider for specific dietary recommendations based on your individual needs and recovery progress.

How to Maintain Hygiene After Vaginoplasty?

After vaginoplasty surgery, you need to maintain proper hygiene in and around your vaginal area to promote healing and prevent infections. Here are some general guidelines for hygiene practices after vaginoplasty:

Cleaning – Clean the surgical site gently with mild soap and water during your daily shower or bath. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser and avoid any harsh chemicals or perfumed products. It is essential to avoid douching or using any feminine hygiene products such as sprays, powders, or perfumed products.

Wiping – After using the toilet, always wipe from front to back to avoid introducing bacteria from the anus to the surgical site. Use soft toilet paper or wipes to avoid irritation.

Dressings – Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for any dressings or bandages that need to be changed. Keep the surgical site clean and dry.

Clothing – Wear loose, comfortable clothing that does not put pressure on the surgical site. Avoid tight clothing, including underwear or pants, that can cause irritation or rubbing on the surgical site.

Showers – It is important to avoid taking baths or submerging in water, such as swimming pools, hot tubs, and baths, for at least six weeks after surgery. A shower with mild soap and lukewarm water is recommended.

Sexual activity – Sexual activity can cause strain on the surgical site and lead to complications such as bleeding and infection. Hence, it is recommended to avoid sexual activity for at least six weeks after surgery, and it may be longer based on your healthcare provider’s recommendations. 

If you notice any signs of infection or complications such as fever, redness, swelling, or discharge from the vaginal area, contact your gynecologist immediately.

Lifestyle Management After Vaginoplasty

Like any other surgery, it is important to follow a certain lifestyle to promote healing and prevent any complications after vaginoplasty surgery. Here are some general guidelines for lifestyle habits and restrictions:

• Physical activity – It is important to avoid strenuous physical activity, such as heavy lifting, running, and rigorous exercise, for at least six weeks after surgery to allow your body to heal. Light activities such as walking and stretching can be beneficial but consult with your healthcare provider for specific guidelines based on your recovery progress.
• Sexual activity – It is recommended to avoid sexual activity for at least six weeks after surgery, and it may be longer based on your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Sexual activity can cause strain on the surgical site and lead to complications such as bleeding and infection.
• Bathing – It is important to avoid taking baths or submerging in water, such as swimming pools, hot tubs, and baths, for at least six weeks after surgery to prevent infection. A shower with mild soap and lukewarm water is recommended.
• Clothing – Wear loose, comfortable clothing to avoid any irritation or pressure on the surgical site.
• Medications and supplements – Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for any medications or supplements you may need to take during your recovery period. Avoid taking blood-thinning medications or supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Smoking – Smoking can slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications such as infection and delayed wound healing. It is highly recommended to quit smoking at least six weeks before surgery and avoid smoking during the recovery period.

It is essential to follow your healthcare provider’s specific guidelines for your recovery period to ensure a successful outcome.

When to contact a Gynecologist After Vaginoplasty Surgery?

Consult with gynecologist if you have any of the following symptoms during the recovery process.

• bleeding from the incision site 
• the incision site is reopening
• there is redness, swelling, itching, increased tenderness
• severe pain and swelling
• numbness, tingling, and discoloration of the skin near the surgical site
• nausea and vomiting
• difficulty breathing or swelling in knee, thigh, or groin.