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Clitoral Hood Reduction
The clitoral hood is the fold of skin around the clitoris. It is comparable to the foreskin for men.
It serves to protect the clitoris from being constantly rubbed. Constant friction could lead to overstimulation, desensitization and even pain. It also helps to keep the area moist and completes the appearance. It is an aesthetic procedure, and is usually performed in combination with other genital cosmetic procedures such as Labiaplasty.
The clitoral hood serves an important function. However, sometimes it can be too large or lengthy, or not retract during intimacy. This may be caused by trauma or childbirth or may be genetic. A clitoral hood reduction, also known as hoodectomy, is a procedure that reduces the length and size of the clitoral hood. We only reduce the clitoral hood to the point where it appears less prominent. It should also be more proportionate with the rest of the labia and vulva contours. It results in no nerve damage and thus the sensation of the clitoris will not be altered at all.
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When is clitoral hood reduction performed?
This procedure is done mainly in combination with Labiaplasty when there is excess skin over clitoris to improve its appearance. It is unlikely to have any functional effect. Occasionally patients may have improved clitoral sensation, but this is not a common outcome and should not be aimed for. Rarely women request the procedure because of frequent infections and unpleasant smell because of excess skin in this area, which will be corrected with this procedure.
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How is clitoral hood reduction performed?
It is usually performed in combination with Labiaplasty depending on patient’s anatomy and wish. It will be removed surgically under a local anaesthetic in most of cases but it can be performed under general anaesthesia as well.
How long does the procedure take?
The procedure may take about 30 minutes, if performed alone, but it is usually part of Labiaplasty.
Patients can go home once they recover from the anaesthetic
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What are the potential complications?
As any surgical procedure, this operation carries anaesthetic risks, if done under general anaesthetic, as well as surgical risks. The chance of complication is small and it includes infection, bleeding, scarring and decreased sensation. For this reason, as with all gynaecological procedures, it is recommended that it should be carried out by a fully qualified experienced Gynaecologist.
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What is postoperative care?
Postoperative care is similar to Labiaplasty. Avoid sexual intercourse for 4-6 weeks. Keep the area of surgery clean by washing with water in a shower. You will be prescribed antibiotics and antibacterial cream to prevent infection and will be advised to avoid heavy physical exercises, bathing, public pools and saunas for 4 weeks.