Adding a clitoral hood reduction to your labiaplasty procedure

If you're already getting a labiaplasty, you might consider an add-on procedure to increase symmetry and pleasure while you're getting surgery.

A labiaplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that reduces the size and proportions of the labia minora, or inner vaginal lips. During a labiaplasty, your plastic surgeon may also recommend a clitoral hood reduction, which reduces excess skin around the clitoris.

Both labiaplasty and clitoral hood reduction can be performed together or separately, depending on your patient's specific needs and goals.

The clitoral hood is a delicate fold of tissue surrounding and protecting the clitoris. It is located close to the pubic bone. This skin flap plays a crucial role in the female genitals. Functionally, it shields the clitoris from friction, prevents dryness and retracts to expose the highly sensitive area during intimacy. Cosmetically, it shapes the upper vulva.

Benefits of clitoral hood reduction

Patients considering a clitoral hood reduction should discuss the procedure with a board-certified plastic surgeon who is a member of ASPS to find out what benefits – both cosmetic and functional – can be reasonably expected.

Cosmetically, the procedure can enhance the appearance of the genitals, promoting greater self-confidence. The skin can be tailored to meet the specific aesthetic goals of the patient, creating a more balanced, symmetrical and proportional look to the entire external vaginal anatomy.

Functionally, the procedure can improve comfort and sensation during intimacy. A clitoral hood with too much skin can cause difficulty in reaching climax during intimacy. Removing excess tissue increases exposure and stimulation to the clitoral, thus heightening physical arousal for some women.

Anesthesia options for clitoral hood reduction

Clitoral hood reduction can be performed under either local or general anesthesia. The choice depends on factors such as the surgeon's preference, the patient's medical history, the severity of the issue and the complexity of the repair.

Local anesthesia, which numbs the targeted area, may be preferred for less complex cases, while general anesthesia, which puts the patients to sleep, may be chosen for intricate repairs.

The surgeon's preference plays a role in the decision-making process, as their familiarity and expertise with a particular anesthesia method contributes to the overall safety and success of the procedure.

Risks associated with clitoral hood reduction

The are risks involved with a clitoral hood reduction procedure, as with any surgery. Risks include a chance of infection, poor wound healing, permanent scarring, asymmetry and decreased sensation or loss of arousal.

Some women may not have enough skin removed. Conversely, removing too much skin may result in excessive dryness of the clitoris and hypersensitivity during intimacy as well as during daily activities. Preoperative counseling and evaluation can minimize the chances of undesirable results.

Optimizing results for clitoral hood reduction

A clitoral hood reduction is a transformative surgical procedure that can improve both the cosmetic appearance and functional aspects of the genitals. To achieve the best results, choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon who is an ASPS Member Surgeon is essential. Thoroughly discuss this procedure with your surgeon to make an informed decision about adding it to a labiaplasty.

*Emmanuel Emovon contributed to this blog