Is Clitoral Hood Reduction Surgery the Right Step For You? (Cost and Benefits)

Are you thinking about getting a clitoral hood reduction surgery done? If so, you likely have certain reservations about the procedure. We're here to put your mind at ease!

In this article, we explore the cost and benefits of a clitoral hoodoplasty and how a trusted Cosmetic gynecologist in Buffalo NY can alleviate any post-surgical risks.

Let's Begin With the Basics: Of What Good is a Clitoral Hood?

Did you know that the clitoris is a highly intricate portion of the female anatomy with over 14,000 nerve fibers (or endings)? The clitoris is often likened to a penis, seeing as they both play a vital role in sexual arousal. The nerve fibers in the former not only make it extremely sensitive but also easily stimulated owing to its erogenous nature.

Think about all of those nerve fibers chafing against your clothing - it would be painful, to say the least! Cue the clitoral hood. This protects the delicate tissue from being excessively stimulated by external stimuli.

Your clitoral hood is responsible for another important function in that it produces sebum - a lubricant that allows for the smooth movement of the hood over the clitoral shaft.

So how does the size of the hood factor into the equation? Let's talk about it!

It's important to note that the proportions of the clitoral hood vary depending on the woman - and has nothing to do with height or weight.

A regular-sized hood should easily move aside when you get sexually stimulated, thus exposing your engorged glans clitoris. This glans is where there exists a high concentration of nerve endings that, with a regular-sized hood, improves the quality of the orgasm.

However, when the hood is larger than normal, this movement is impeded, meaning that it might not retract easily and this, in turn, affects sexual arousal and consequently, sexual satisfaction. A large hood could be the product of hormonal changes or genetics.

Benefits of a Clitoral Hood Reduction

Clitoral hoodoplasty, clitoral hoodectomy or clitoral hood reduction surgery as it's commonly referred to, is a cosmetic gynecological procedure to reduce the amount of skin that covers the clitoris. When this excess tissue is removed, it's easier for women to get sexually aroused and eventually reach fulfillment. However, a clitoral hood reduction doesn't simply serve as a vaginal rejuvenation procedure to improve the quality of the orgasm.

There is a second major benefit that prompts women to opt for surgery! Women with a large clitoral hood will often feel uncomfortable in snug fabrics. Apart from the discomfort, there also might be some measure of pain as the clitoral hood is inclined to rub against the thighs.

A third benefit exists! Clitoral hoodoplasty also undertakes to enhance the visual appeal of the clitoral hood. A larger hood might be visible through one's clothing and, as a result, could cause its owner to be embarrassed.

So aside from improving sexual arousal, clitoral hood reduction improves the visual appeal of the hood and prevents it from rubbing against an external stimulant, thereby causing pain.

Cost of a Clitoral Hood Reduction

Getting down to brass tacks, let's talk numbers! How much does clitoral hood reduction surgery cost? The cost of surgery varies based on the complexity, the expertise of the doctor and whether it is performed under local or general anesthesia. Normally, it ranges between $3,000 to $5,000.

How About Anesthesia?

This is a short outpatient procedure, which means you won't have to stay the night at the hospital and can go home after the surgery. It's commonly performed under IV sedation, but you can opt for general anesthesia if the need arises.

Can You Rely on Insurance to Pay For the Surgery?

Most patients inquire; Does insurance cover clitoral hood reduction surgery? Just as with other cosmetic gynecology procedures that are done to enhance the appearance of the anatomy and are not necessarily medically mandated, clitoral hoodoplasty isn't covered by insurance. Bear in mind that clitoral hood reduction is an elective surgery much like breast augmentation or liposuction, which is why it is usually not considered under most insurance coverages.

Insurance usually covers conditions that need a medical diagnosis such as pelvic prolapses or urinary and fecal incontinence. If your surgery is performed partly for medical reasons and partly to improve the appearance of the anatomy, your insurance will only cover the medically-mandated portion of the surgery.

The Importance of Approaching a Trusted Surgeon

The clitoris is such a delicate part of your anatomy and needs to be handled by trained and qualified surgeons. To avoid exposing yourself to unnecessary risks, the surgery should be performed in a safe and sterile environment under the highest levels of surgical excellence.

Nerve damage is one of the risks of this surgery if you go to a surgeon who doesn't have sufficient experience under their belt. For this purpose, it's recommended to entrust your body to the hands of a professional. Your doctor will perform the surgery in an operating room or in-office surgical suite.

The surgeon will also detail the total cost of the surgery including facility fees, anesthesia expenses, surgeon's fees, and schedule pre- and post-surgical appointments.

Interested in Going Forward With the Procedure? Our Professionals Are Happy to Answer Your Questions!

Aesthetic Gynecology Specialists of WNY is a trusted cosmetic gynecology practice in Buffalo, with a commitment to delivering surgical excellence, under the most stringent medical safety codes.

Our trained and cordial surgeons have several decades of experience in genital reconstruction and repair. We understand that you may be nervous, considering the nature of these surgeries. Our team is here to address any fears you may have.

Surgery is still a long way off. The first step is to ask as many questions as possible! Contact us today and we will be happy to assist you in any way we can.