Hoodectomy

Procedure Overview

The clitoris is a female sex organ. The visible button-sized organ is near the front junction of the labia minora (inner lips) and the sole function of the clitoris is for sexual pleasure. When the tissue, referred to as the 'clitoral hood', becomes enlarged, this may prevent women from achieving arousal or sexual stimulation as the extra skin can decrease sensitivity. Women who suffer from clitoral hypertrophy may also experience symptoms such as discomfort, chaffing or being unable to wear tight clothing or swimwear. An clitoral hood is often referred to as the female equivalent to a male foreskin. An enlarged hood can be the source of embarrassment for many women with their sexual partners and can cause a strain on relationships. Mentally it can affect a woman’s self-confidence and intimacy issues as a direct result of their vagina’s appearance.  A hoodectomy aims to improve the sexual function of the woman and the aesthetic appearance of the vagina.

The procedure itself is relatively simple and generally takes 30-40 minutes. It is carried out as a day case procedure (you will be in and out of hospital the same day) and under a general anaesthetic. Your surgeon will discuss which technique will be most suitable for you as it is decided on a case by case basis.

As the clitoral and labial tissue is well supplied by blood as well as collagen being produced faster in these areas, the surgical wounds will heal very quickly. It is of course still important to follow all pre and post-op advice given by your surgeon and clinic nurse to ensure the best possible recovery. Initial mild discomfort and swelling is normal but should subside within the few days post-surgery. Exercise, including all physical and sexual activity, should be avoided for 6 weeks according to your surgeon's instructions.

Patient satisfaction rate for this procedure is extremely high as it is giving a better quality of life; it removes the possibility of chaffing, discomfort and embarrassment whilst enhancing a patient’s sexual experience.

*There is no guarantee of specific outcomes so individual results and experiences can vary from person to person.