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What is Clitoral hood reduction surgery ?
Clitoral hood reduction surgery is a minor surgical procedure that removes or reshapes excess skin around the clitoral hood (prepuce). The aim is to create a more balanced appearance of the external genital area and, in some cases, reduce irritation caused by excess tissue.
The procedure is typically performed under local or general anaesthetic as a day case
Clitoral hood reduction surgery: The Procedure
This surgery will take approximately one hour. Because it is performed under general anaesthetic you will feel no pain during the procedure itself.
During the procedure the Surgeon will remove excess skin from the folds that cover your clitoris.
You can also choose to have a labiaplasty at the same time as clitoral hood reduction can be performed at the same time.
Dissolvable sutures are used to close the wound, and after a short recovery of two to three hours, you will able to go home. Make sure you have someone to collect you from the hospital.
Why do women choose Clitoral hood reduction surgery ?
Patients may consider this procedure for several reasons:
- Excess skin causing discomfort in clothing or during exercise
- Aesthetic concerns about the appearance of the vulval area
- Irritation or hygiene difficulties due to redundant tissue
- Desire to improve self-confidence and body image
- In some cases, enhancement of sexual sensatio
Clitoral hood reduction surgery: After the procedure
You should arrange to take time off work depending on the type of work that you do. Most patients arrange around one week off work. If your job is particularly physical, then you may need to take slightly longer.
Expect the area to feel quite sore in the first week or two. This is perfectly normal. You will be given a course of antibiotics to take and some pain relief medication. Be sure to complete the course of antibiotics, these help to minimize the risk of infection.
You may notice some swelling in the first few weeks after surgery. This will gradually settle down over time. Most of the swelling should have settled within six weeks. You can help reduce swelling by applying a cold pack to the area for ten to twenty minutes, leaving twenty minutes between each application. This may also help reduce any pain or discomfort.
You must avoid baths at first. It is important to keep the area very clean, but shower rather than taking baths in the first few weeks. Wear comfortable underwear, nothing too tight fitting as this may increase discomfort.
It is important to avoid sexual intercourse for six weeks. Use sanitary towels rather than tampons for six weeks.
Our patient care team will arrange follow up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your recovery
Clitoral hood reduction surgery: Risks and complications
Most patents who undergo clitoral hood reduction surgery do so without any complications, Of course, all surgical procedures carry some element of risk and you should be aware of them. These include,
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Pain and discomfort
- Bruising and swelling
- Poor wound healing
- Nerve damage
- Need for revision surgery
Your Patient Journey
If this is your first experience of having a surgical procedure such as this , we understand it can be a bit daunting. In this short guide we outline the steps from start to finish of your procedure, so you can see the treatment pathway
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Step One
Everything starts with a simple phone call or website form enquiry. Our patient co-ordinators are on hand to give you all the information you need and then arrange a free zoom video consultation for you with one of the Urologists or Gynaecologists. These are Doctors with specialist training in genital procedures. This initial inquiry stage enables you to find out the facts such as likely costs, what the surgery fees include, available dates for surgery, what aftercare is included etc.
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Step Two
This is your consultation with the Specialist. This is where you find out exactly what can be achieved for you with this procedure. Here you will discuss the results you want to achieve and get all the facts directly from the Specialist who will perform the procedure for you. At this stage you may also book your surgery, or confirm a pre booked date. Any pre operative checks that need to be done, or any pre op tests needed, will be arranged for you.
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Step Three
This will be the day of your procedure. You will go to the hospital at the admission time and meet your Specialist once again , together with his medical team. The Anaesthetist will come to see you before the procedure and discuss the anaesthetic with you. Then the nursing will take care of your right through the day to ensure a pleasant and smooth experience.
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Step Four
This is the period of your aftercare. Your Specialist will see you for follow up in the hospital and on video to ensure a smooth recovery. You will also have access to our patient care support team whenever you have any general questions. We want you to be totally supported after your surgery and pride ourselves in the aftercare and support we provide our patients.
Recovery after Clitoral hood reduction surgery
Recovery varies between patients, but general guidance includes:
First 48–72 hours:
- Mild swelling and tenderness is expected
- Rest and limited movement recommended
First 1–2 weeks:
- Swelling gradually reduces
- Return to light daily activities possible
- Avoid tight clothing and strenuous exercise
3–6 weeks:
- Tissue continues to heal
- Sexual activity should be avoided during this period
Full healing is typically achieved within 6–8 weeks.
Clitoral reduction surgery cost in the UK
The cost of clitoral hood reduction surgery in the UK typically ranges depending on:
- Complexity of the procedure
- Anaesthetic type
- Whether it is combined with other procedures
- Surgeon experience and clinic setting
A personalised quotation is provided after consultation.
Female Genital Surgery
