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Clitoral Hood Reduction

Labiaplasty surgery in NYC performed with or without clitoral hood reduction is a safe procedure that can help patients achieve a better level of comfort and an improved aesthetic appearance. Clitoral hood reduction, also known as clitoropexy or hoodectomy, reduces the size of the clitoral hood, thereby enhancing sensation in the clitoris and refining the appearance of the vulva. While different than labiaplasty, which reduces the size of the outer vaginal lips, clitoral hood reduction may be performed at the same time, if desired by the patient. Women who are considering vaginal surgery may be seeking relief from pain, while others have cosmetic concerns or wish to improve their sexual satisfaction.

Having labiaplasty or clitoral hood reduction is an intimate decision for any woman. Dr. Loeb offers confidential consultations to discuss patient concerns to help determine which procedure would most benefit their individual needs and aesthetic goals.

Why have clitoral hood reduction New York?

The sole function of the clitoris is for sexual pleasure. When the tissue or covering of the clitoris becomes enlarged or redundant (called clitoral hypertrophy), this may prevent a woman from achieving arousal or sexual stimulation, as the extra skin decreases sensitivity. Besides this physical component, a large clitoral hood may prove uncomfortable when wearing tight clothing or swimwear. Many women find that they have difficulty reaching orgasm with clitoral hypertrophy, and a successful hoodectomy can resolve this problem. An enlarged clitoral hood – which is the female equivalent to male foreskin – may be the source of embarrassment among some women, especially with their sexual partners. Many women say their sex lives have improved along with their self-confidence after having clitoral hood reduction.

Procedure overview

Clitoropexy repositions the protruding clitoris and reduces the length of the clitoral hood. The surgery is relatively simple and is usually performed as an office procedure under local anesthesia with light sedation, and may be combined with labiaplasty. During clitoral hood reduction, the hood is surgically incised and the redundant tissue removed to unveil the clitoris. Since the nerves to the clitoris are not disrupted, patients will not experience any decrease in sensation or ability to achieve arousal. After your surgeon removes the protruding skin, the hood is shortened. The procedure lasts roughly thirty minutes and is done on an out-patient basis.

Potential risks and critiques

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists does not advocate any type of “cosmetic surgery” of the vagina, including clitoral hood reduction or labiaplasty. The organization asserts that the risks of either type of aesthetic surgery outweigh any benefits.

While serious complications associated with clitoral hood reduction are rare, these will be thoroughly discussed during your consultation with Dr. Loeb, as any surgical procedure carries some degree of risk. Possible complications may include scarring, infection, temporary numbness, and pigmentation changes. However, a hoodectomy carries little danger of nerve injury or sensation change since the clitoral nerves are not touched during the surgery. By “unhooding” the clitoris, most women enjoy increased sexual sensation and less discomfort while wearing tight-fitting clothing.

What is the recovery time for clitoral hood reduction?

Recovery time for clitoral hood reduction varies according to the individual and the extent of the procedure. Here’s a general outline:

  • After the procedure, you can expect some swelling and mild discomfort.
  • Within 3-5 days, most patients are able to return to work.
  • After 3-4 days, you can resume normal activities, but you should avoid strenuous exercise for two weeks.
  • A patient who also underwent labiaplasty alongside hood reduction surgery may need up to six weeks to heal fully.
  • Avoid sexual relations and strenuous exercise for one month.
  • Until fully healed, do not soak in tubs, use hot tubs, take saunas, wax, or shave.

Prior to the procedure, Dr. Loeb will discuss specific post-operative instructions and indicate when patients can resume sexual activity. Postoperative appointments will be scheduled to monitor your recovery and healing.

Related procedures

Patients who are candidates for clitoral hood reduction or labiaplasty may also be interested in other related procedures such as vaginal rejuvenation, where the vaginal and perineum areas are tightened. This procedure is becoming increasingly common among women who have had children and want to enhance the level of sexual pleasure for both partners.

Clitoral hood reduction New York

New York labiaplasty and clitoral hood reduction are two of the specialized procedures offered by Dr. Thomas Loeb. There are many plastic surgeons in Manhattan, but none with the experience, technical skill and compassion of Dr. Loeb. With his expertise, a hoodectomy offers patients very natural-looking results, with a slimmer and more comfortable size and shape. If you would like to learn more about labiaplasty procedures, we invite you to call 212-327-3700 to schedule a private consultation.

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