Also known as clitoral hoodectomy or prepuce reduction surgery, clitoral hood reduction surgery is a cosmetic surgical procedure which is designed to reduce the amount of tissue that covers the clitoral head. During the procedure, the cosmetic or plastic surgeon will trim the excess prepuce tissue using very fine incisions. Many women who seek clitoral hood reduction surgery do so to correct an overly thick or large prepuce which is interfering in the normal sexual function of their clitoris.
As a benefit of correcting these issues, clitoral hood reduction surgery can improve the overall aesthetic appearance of the vagina, while also significantly improving the pleasure derived from sexual stimulation.
Clitoral hood reduction surgery may be combined with labiaplasty, hymenoplasty, vaginoplasty, labial puffing, and/or perineoplasty in order to provide a more complete rejuvenation of the vagina.
The extent and number of procedures completed will be dependent on the particulars of your case, as well as your individual goals and expectations. Whether you want to improve the sexual appeal and appearance of your vagina or are experiencing functional problems achieving orgasm, clitoral hood reduction surgery can rejuvenate and improve the sexual function of your clitoris.
Clitoral Hood Reduction Surgery
Clitoral hood reduction surgery is a relatively straightforward, outpatient procedure that is performed while the patient is under local or general anesthesia. Surgery can be completed in as little as 1 hour, however, the actual length of the surgery may vary based on the number and type of additional procedures being performed (i.e. labiaplasty, vaginoplasty, etc.).
There are variations to the number and placement of the incisions and sutures used for clitoral hood reduction surgery. The exact technique used by the surgeon will vary based on a patient’s existing tissue, the amount of excess skin to be removed, and the desired aesthetic outcome for the patient. Your cosmetic or plastic surgeon will recommend the type of prepuce reduction surgery, as well as any secondary procedures, that will together achieve the results you are looking for.
Next, your surgeon will make a number of delicate incisions made in concealed areas, remove excess skin and stitch the remaining tissue back together with absorbable sutures that gradually dissolve as you heal.
Conversely, your surgeon may employ specific laser techniques to modify and sculpt the appearance of the labia. One of the benefits of laser surgery is that it is shown to reduce the frequency of bleeding, while also reducing the amount of time required for recovery.
Note: only the hood or prepuce is affected, the head of the clitoris is not altered in any way.
Surgery Recovery
Today’s techniques allow for a relatively comfortable and brief recuperation after clitoral hood reduction surgery. Most patients take 1 to 3 days off from work to rest and heal at home, although they are still able to move about the house and participate in light activities.
Recovery prior to resuming sexual activity is a bit longer at 4-6 weeks following surgery. It is very important to carefully follow your plastic or cosmetic surgeons’ directions for self-care after surgery. At your follow-up appointments, your surgeon will gradually clear you to resume specific activities as your progress in healing permits.
While you wait to be cleared for more demanding activities, try to limit physical exertion, and apply cold compresses to sooth pain and reduce swelling.
If pain and swelling persists, contact your surgeon to find out if your pain, redness and swelling is normal, or a sign of a problem requiring additional attention.
Considerations
Clitoral hood reduction surgery will permanently reduce the length and thickness of your prepuce covering or interfering with the stimulation and sexual gratification of your clitoris. Additionally, many women find that aside from improving sexual function, clitoral hood reduction surgery can contribute to improving the shape and appearance of their vagina and help them to reclaim the sexual confidence of their youth.
As an increasingly popular procedure, clitoral hood reduction surgery is both quite popular and quite safe. However, no surgery is completely free of risk. In general, potential risks following from prepuce reduction surgery include reaction to the anesthesia, hematoma or seroma, infection, bleeding, loss of sensation, damage to local tissue and organs, irregular contours or asymmetries, and the need for revision surgery.
Be sure to speak with your cosmetic or plastic surgeon about the benefits and limitations associated with clitoral hood reduction surgery, and ensure that you fully understand the procedures and their related complications prior to moving forward.
