The day of the procedure, most patient have a combination of throbbing discomfort from swelling and stinging or burning at the incision. Most of the incisions are inside the vagina, but there is also an incision on the perineum (the skin between the vagina and rectum) in order to remove loose or stretched skin there. Many patients tolerate the discomfort with help from Tylenol, Ibuprofen, and ice. However, some patients use narcotics or other prescription pain medications for 2-3 days. Some bleeding is expected in the first few days, but it’s usually no heavier than a normal period. A perineal squirt bottle can be used for cleaning (basically just body temperature water being squirted over the area during and after going to the bathroom) to help reduce stinging from urination and to help clean the area. After 4-5 days, most patients find they can return to a light duty job, although many patients find it helpful to use a small pillow when sitting to help take pressure off the area. By 2 weeks after the procedure, patients are able to do some light cardiovascular activities like speedwalking. All the dissolvable stitches on the outside of the body are usually gone by this time. Patients return for a follow up visit at 6 weeks, where an exam is done to make sure the inside has healed appropriately. This is done by gently inserting a finger along the suture line since most patients aren’t comfortable enough for a full speculum exam. As long as there are no openings, patients are cleared to have intercourse. The first couple times are usually a little sore no matter how long patients wait after surgery, and spotting can happen. Most patients are 100% back to normal between 8 and 12 weeks after the surgery.
