CLITORAL HOOD (PREPUCE) LIFT

• Why do women get a Clitoral Hood (Prepuce) Lift ?

There are two primary reasons why women may desire a clitoral hood (prepuce) lift:

• Aesthetics – some women find the clitoral hood to be excessively long and out of proportion to the labia minora. This is not a functional issue and it strictly aesthetic and a personal preference.  Patients often describe the clitoral hood as being “too long” as it commonly protrudes beyond the labia majora.  It has been my experience that women will often complain they do not feel feminine due to this hood protrusion.

• Function – other women want to reduce the length of the clitoral hood so they can heighten the sensitivity of their clitoris and improve sexual function. Having an elongated clitoral hood can make it difficult to stimulate the clitoris.  The procedure can also be performed to decrease irritation and discomfort.

• Is there a difference between a Clitoral Hood Lift and a Clitoral Hood Reduction?

A clitoral hood reduction or a hoodectomy is a generic term to describe the surgical reduction or partial removal of the clitoral hood. This procedure is most performed to enhance aesthetics or improve clitoral sensitivity.   Clitoral hood reduction can best be described by the outcome one hopes to achieve, some patients want to shorten the length of the clitoral hood and others want to narrow the width.:

1) Clitoral Hood (prepuce) lift – shortening the “length” of the clitoral hood

2) Lateral prepuce (hood) reduction – narrowing the “width” of the clitoral hood.

Many websites inappropriately equate a clitoropexy to a clitoral hood lift.  This comparison is simply not correct, as a clitoropexy is the surgical elevation of the clitoris and a clitoral hood lift is the shortening of the length of the clitoral hood (prepuce). Patients who get a clitoropexy will often have their hood lifted to keep the clitoral hood in proportion to the clitoris.

Both procedures are designed to improve the function and/or appearance of the clitoral hood but involve different surgical techniques and are performed for different reasons. It is important to understand the different surgical techniques as well as the goals and concerns with your surgeon to best determine which procedure is appropriate for you.

 

• What is the recovery period like after Clitoral Hood Lift surgery?

The recovery period for any vulvar cosmetic procedure including the clitoral hood lift surgery can vary depending on the patient and the extent of the procedure. In general, patients can expect the same experience as they would for a labiaplasty including discomfort, swelling, and bruising but it will be more specific to the area specifically the prepuce/clitoral hood.  The symptoms associated with a clitoral hood reduction is best managed with pain medication and ice packs.

Patients are typically advised to avoid excessive rubbing in this area including cycling, spin classes, motorcycle, scooter or horseback riding, as well as sexual activity, strenuous exercise, and heavy lifting for at least 4-6 weeks after surgery to allow for proper healing. It is also important to keep the surgical area clean and dry to minimize the risk of infection. Loose clothing is encouraged so this will limit further irritation to the incision site.

Most patients are able to return to work and daily activity within 48 hours after surgery, but it is important to follow the specific post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon to ensure a smooth recovery.

 

• Will a Clitoral Hood lift procedure enhance my sex life / increase orgasms?

A clitoral hood lift, shortening the length of the clitoral hood, is a surgical procedure that is designed to improve the appearance and function of the clitoral hood. While the procedure is primarily performed for aesthetic reasons, some women may experience increased sexual sensation and pleasure after the surgery.

By lifting the clitoral hood, the clitoris may be more exposed and accessible, which can potentially enhance sexual stimulation and lead to more efficient and intense orgasm.  However, it is important to note that the results of the procedure can vary from person to person, and not all women may experience a significant improvement in sexual function or sensation.

 

• Does a large Clitoral Hood increase or decrease sensation?

A large clitoral hood, whether in length or width, can potentially decrease sensation in the clitoral area, as it may cover or obscure the clitoris and make it less accessible to sexual stimulation. Thus, making it more difficult for women to achieve orgasm.

If a patient is concerned about the size or appearance of their clitoral hood, or if she is experiencing difficulty with sexual function or sensation, it is important to discuss your concerns with a qualified cosmetic genital surgeon.  They should be able to provide you with an explanation for your condition and symptoms as well they can make surgical and non surgical recommendations. They can provide you with information on the potential causes of your symptoms, as well as treatment options that may be available to improve your sexual function and quality of life.