Intimacy & Plastic Surgery FAQ
Posted March 30, 2022
What can happen if I am intimate with my partner after surgery?
An increase in your heart rate and blood pressure can increase the risk of postoperative bleeding and can increase swelling. Your incision site may be at risk of being disrupted with aggressive handling. Implants can be displaced, and the chance of infection may arise with the licking and fondling of the breasts. There can also be abrasions to the surgical area with aggressive activity.
How soon can I have sex after surgery?
In general, sexual activity with any procedure can resume once the patient is comfortable and there is no pain during intimacy. Pain can affect sexual desire, as can dressings, bruising, drainage or drains, swelling, and tenderness. Pain medication may also decrease your sexual desire.
Can breast implants pop with aggressive sexual activity?
No. Aggressive handling or biting will not affect the implant.
How long do I need to stop sexual activity with a Labiaplasty?
A Labiaplasty is performed to address excessive mucosa of the labia, which can cause pain with clothing and physical or sexual activity. A patient’s desire for intimacy may be decreased as their comfort level is affected. Many women with excessive mucosa are self-conscious of their vaginal appearance, which can cause a decrease in their level of intimacy or desire. Sexual activity can resume typically within three weeks postoperatively but may be longer based on the patient’s discretion. Sexual activity may increase and improve as the patient heals and feels more confident and comfortable.
Will I see or feel my sutures? Can anyone else feel them?
Suture lines can often feel rough and slightly raised for several weeks. Patients may feel suture knots buried under the skin at the surface for several months. These may feel strange to a partner during intimacy. It can also make a patient feel self-conscious, impacting their desire for intimacy. The healing process with any surgery may affect the patient’s confidence when sexually active.
Can I be intimate after liposuction?
The patient can return to sexual activity when they feel comfortable. The decision is left up to the patient. Liposuction may have mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and tenderness which may not be conducive to sexual activity until after things resolve, typically 1-2 weeks.
When can I start to wear lingerie?
Patients may wear lingerie as long as they are comfortable. Underwire bras may be uncomfortable with incision sites for the first 4-6 weeks.
Can I sit in a hot tub or jacuzzi after surgery?
Patients should avoid jacuzzi and hot tubs for six weeks as they can cause swelling and may disrupt the suture line.
More questions? Schedule a complimentary cosmetic consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Antimarino.
