Proper care after a vaginoplasty is crucial for a good recovery and optimal results. In this article, we provide an overview of the basic post-operative care you should keep in mind after your gender-affirming surgery. However, this is not an exact guide, as your medical team will provide personalized advice throughout your recovery.
What Is a trans vaginoplasty?
A trans vaginoplasty is a gender-affirming surgery in which a neovagina is created from scratch using penile tissue or a colon graft. This genital feminization surgery allows transgender women who request it as part of their transition to have a functional and aesthetically pleasing vagina, significantly improving their quality of life and emotional well-being.
There are three main vaginoplasty techniques: penile inversion, graft-based vaginoplasty, and colovaginoplasty.
First 24 hours after Genital feminization surgery
Hospital stay
It is common to stay in the hospital for seven to ten days to monitor your progress. During the first four days, you may not be allowed to get out of bed. After the fourth day, medical staff will assist you in going to the bathroom. Follow the advice of the nurses and medical team, who will guide you based on your individual recovery.
Throughout your hospital stay, you will also have a urinary catheter.
Post-operative care at home
Once at home, follow the advice of the IM GENDER team and get plenty of rest, as rest is essential for proper healing. Avoid lifting heavy objects or engaging in strenuous activities. However, this does not mean you should remain in bed all day. On the contrary, it is recommended to take 15-minute walks three to four times a day.
Before your surgery, it is important to plan for assistance at home upon your return. Having help with household tasks, showering, grocery shopping, and other daily activities will make your recovery easier.
Quitting smoking
Smoking negatively affects the healing process. It is strongly recommended to quit smoking several weeks before the surgery and to avoid smoking for at least four weeks after the procedure.
What type of clothing should you wear?
Avoid thong or Brazilian-style underwear in the first few days. Wait for your surgeon’s approval before wearing them. During your hospital stay, it is recommended to wear high-waisted, soft, cotton compression underwear in dark colors.
Additionally, in the first few days after surgery, opt for comfortable, loose-fitting, breathable clothing that opens at the front for easy dressing and removal. Underwear should always be made of cotton.
Avoid physical exercise
It is important to avoid any intense physical activity or strenuous effort during the first six weeks after surgery. Activities such as lifting heavy objects, running, or doing abdominal exercises can negatively affect the healing process and cause complications. Follow the recommendations of the IM GENDER medical team regarding physical activity.
Swelling of the vulva
Swelling and some asymmetry in the vulva are normal after surgery. Additionally, the scars may appear swollen and red. This is part of the healing process and typically lasts for about four to six months. It is important to wait for the swelling to subside before evaluating the final results.
Vaginal douching
The first vaginal cleanings will be performed by the medical or nursing team, who will explain step by step how to continue them on your own. It is essential to follow their instructions for the entire duration recommended by your surgeon, as the duration may vary depending on individual circumstances.
Vaginal dilations
Vaginal dilation is a crucial part of post-operative care. This process involves using dilators of different sizes to maintain the depth and width of the neovagina. But how and when should vaginal dilations be performed?
Daily dilations and vaginal cleanings will begin about a week after surgery, once the dressings are removed.
Before dilation, clean the area using a syringe with a cannula, saline solution, and Betadine. During the first month after surgery, a small dilator should be used three times a day for 15 minutes. This will help accommodate the pelvic muscles. The process should always be performed with a water-based lubricant and a small amount of Betadine gel.
Starting in the second month, as the patient gains confidence and pelvic flexibility, a larger dilator will be introduced, always with the assistance of a water-based lubricant.
It is essential to maintain a consistent and methodical dilation routine for at least the first three months post-surgery. After this period, patients can begin having sexual intercourse, with natural penetration being preferable to mechanical dilation.
Post-vaginoplasty medical follow-ups
Regular medical check-ups are essential to assess recovery progress and address any potential complications. During these visits, the doctor will evaluate wound healing, functionality, and the aesthetic appearance of the neovagina, adjusting the post-operative care plan as needed.
Results after vaginoplasty recovery
After a recovery period that may last several months, many individuals experience a significant improvement in their quality of life, as well as greater alignment between their bodies and gender identity.
If you have further questions about post-vaginoplasty care, schedule an appointment with the IM GENDER team, and we will provide you with all the necessary information.
