In recent years clitoral hood surgery has become very popular as women seek vaginal rejuvenation to restore both function and appearance. At Moorgate Andrology, we perform a range of restorative vaginal procedures, both surgical and non-surgical. In this article, we will explore clitoral hood surgery. We will discuss what benefits can be obtained from this surgery and also the potential risks and complications.
This is a surgical procedure typically performed by Plastic Surgeons, Gynaecologists and Urologists. It can be performed under local or general anaesthetic, and the procedure takes around one hour. The goal of this procedure is to expose more of the clitoris by unhooding it through a reduction in the covering tissue.
The clitoral hood in women is similar to the foreskin in men. The clitoris, just like the penis glans in men, contains many nerve endings and, as such, is very sensitive. Again, just as men suffer from complications with the foreskin, so do women with the clitoral hood. These can include
The clitoral hood in women is similar to the foreskin in men. The clitoris, just like the penis glans in men, contains many nerve endings and, as such, is very sensitive. Again, just as men suffer from complications with the foreskin, so do women with the clitoral hood. These can include
Pain during sexual intercourse is a major problem for many women. Problems with the clitoral hood are a known factor for pain during sexual activity. This can lead to frustration and a reluctance to develop sexual relationships. This can have an impact on mental health.
Excess clitoral hood tissue can cause discomfort during leisure or sporting activities such as horse riding or cycling. Again, not being able to take part in exercise or sports can lead to a breakdown in mental health
It should be mentioned that the clitoral hood does vary in size and appearance. Embarrassment about the way the clitoral hood looks, can result in a reluctance to form sexual relationships
Firstly, everything starts with a consultation and assessment with a Specialist. At this consultation, the Specialist will explain how the surgery works. There will be an examination and an explanation of the potential outcome and risks of the surgery. This consultation typically lasts between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on how many questions you have.
Leading up to the surgery there may be some pre-operative tests to have as part of the preparation.
It is vital that you attend for these and follow the pre-operative instructions.
The Specialist will discuss the anaesthesia with you. It is possible to perform the surgery under local anaesthetic, sedation or full general anaesthetic. At Moorgate most patients choose general anaesthetic for maximum comfort.
The surgical procedure is not complicated for an experienced surgeon. Excess tissue is removed from the clitoral hood to improve both function and appearance. The incisions and placed in such a way that scars are neatly hidden
Following a short recovery period, you will be able to go home. If you have had the surgery under sedation or general anaesthetic, you will need someone to collect you from the hospital. If you have had the procedure under local anaesthetic, then you should be able to go home alone.
If you are interested to know more about clitoral hood procedures, take a look at our blog on understanding Clitoral Hood Reduction Surgery: Benefits and Risks. This blog is perfect for anyone considering clitoral hood surgery.
You will need to take some time off work after this procedure. Most patients tend to take around one week off work. If you job involves heaving lifting, then you may need a little longer.
In the first weeks after surgery, you should expect some discomfort. You will be given pain relief medication upon discharge from the hospital, together with antibiotics to take for one week.
You may notice some bruising and swelling of the area, this is perfectly normal at this stage. Therefore you should know that the final result may take several weeks to appear.
During the first six weeks, you should avoid gym, sport and sexual activity.
When everything has completely healed, the clitoral hood should have an improved appearance. Moreover, if you have suffered from pain and discomfort, these issues should be resolved. Both functionality and appearance issues should not be a concern anymore. Because the clitoris is now more exposed, you may notice heightened sensitivity in the area leading to increased sexual stimulation. Of course, if you have been avoiding sexual intercourse of sporting and leisure activities because of the problems associated with the clitoral hood, it should now be possible to move forward with these activities with confidence.
All surgical procedures carry risks of complications and side effects. Most patients who undergo clitoral hood surgery do so without experiencing any complications and go on to make an uneventful recovery. However, you should be aware of the potential complications of this surgery and these should be explained to you at your consultation and through documentation that you will receive prior to the surgery. Here are the potential complications of this procedure.
All surgical procedures carry a risk of infection. You can minimise the risk of infection by following the post-operative instructions to the letter. You will be prescribed a course of antibiotics to take after surgery. You should take the complete course after the surgery, even if you feel better. If an infection occurs further treatment will be needed. In worst cases, further surgery may be required. Symptoms of infection are increasing pain, redness of the area, temperature. If you feel that you have an infection you should contact the hospital without delay.
All surgical procedures result in scars. However, the surgeon will place the incisions discreetly so that the scars are hidden. If you have concerns about the location or nature of the scar, you should discuss this with the surgeon. Sometimes scars can heal abnormally and may require further treatment to improve them,
Changes in sensitivity can occur. In worst cases, nerve damage can lead to lasting changes in sensitivity. Thankfully, this is not common. Because more of the clitoris is visible, many women report increased sensitivity in the area.
All surgical procedures carry a risk of post-operative bleeding. This is not common, and is you have a bleeding episode, then you should contact the hospital.
It is very important that you understand the possible outcomes of the procedure. You should have realistic expectations as to what can be achieved. Some complications can lead to a poor aesthetic outcome, and further treatment may be required to improve it.