What it is

Clitoral hood reduction, also known as hoodectomy, is a cosmetic gynecological surgery designed to reduce excess skin folds around the clitoris. The clitoral hood naturally protects the clitoris, but in some women, it may be too prominent or asymmetrical, causing both aesthetic concerns and functional discomfort.

This procedure involves removing or reshaping the excess prepuce tissue while ensuring the sensitive clitoral nerves remain unharmed. The ultimate goal is to create a balanced, symmetrical, and comfortable intimate area.

➤ Highlights

• Purpose: Enhance comfort and appearance
• Area treated: Clitoral prepuce (hood)
• Result: Better aesthetics, reduced irritation, improved sexual satisfaction

Why it’s done

Many women seek clitoral hood reduction for both functional and cosmetic reasons.

➤ Functional reasons

• Irritation during exercise, cycling, or wearing tight clothing
• Discomfort during sexual intercourse due to excess skin folding
• Difficulty with hygiene, leading to potential infections

➤ Cosmetic reasons

• Desire for a more youthful, symmetrical appearance of the genital area
• Boost in self-confidence and body image
• Often combined with labiaplasty for a complete aesthetic result

Alternatives

Clitoral hood reduction may not always be necessary. Depending on the patient’s needs, there are several alternatives:

➤ Non-surgical options

• Wearing looser clothing to reduce irritation
• Using lubricants during intimacy to minimize friction
• Pelvic floor therapy to improve comfort and sexual function

➤ Other surgical options

• Labiaplasty: Reshaping the labia minora or majora to address protrusion or discomfort
• Combined procedures: Clitoral hood reduction with labiaplasty for complete refinement
• Vaginoplasty: For those seeking vaginal tightening rather than hood reduction

Preparation

Preparing for clitoral hood reduction involves both medical and personal steps to ensure safety and comfort.

➤ Medical preparation

• Consultation with a qualified gynecologist or plastic surgeon
• Medical history review to rule out risks
• Avoiding blood-thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen) before surgery
• Pre-surgery blood tests and sometimes STD screening

➤ Personal preparation

• Shaving or trimming the genital area as instructed
• Arranging for a friend or family member to assist after surgery
• Taking 5–7 days off work for recovery

How it’s done

Clitoral hood reduction is a minor surgical procedure performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on patient comfort.

Step-by-step overview:
➤ The surgeon marks the excess hood skin for precise removal
➤ Small incisions are made, and the redundant folds of skin are carefully trimmed
➤ The underlying clitoral nerves are protected at all times
➤ Dissolvable sutures are used to close the area
➤ The procedure usually takes 30–60 minutes

Important: The surgery does not reduce clitoral sensitivity because only the excess skin is removed while the nerves remain intact.

Recovery

The recovery period for clitoral hood reduction is generally short and manageable.

➤ Immediate recovery

• Mild swelling, bruising, or discomfort for a few days
• Cold compresses help reduce swelling
• Pain medication prescribed for comfort

➤ Short-term care

• Avoiding tight clothing and strenuous activities for at least 2 weeks
• Keeping the area clean and dry
• No sexual intercourse, tampon use, or heavy exercise for 4–6 weeks

➤ Long-term outcome

• Final results visible within 6–8 weeks
• Permanent reduction in excess skin
• Most women report greater comfort and higher self-confidence

Treatment options in Korea

Korea is widely known for its advanced plastic and cosmetic surgery industry, and clitoral hood reduction is offered by many specialized clinics with strong safety standards.

➤ Why choose Korea

• Experienced surgeons in cosmetic gynecology
• Cutting-edge techniques that minimize scarring
• Confidential and patient-centered care
• Affordable costs compared to Western countries

➤ Treatment settings

• Procedures performed in modern private clinics or women’s hospitals
• Frequently combined with labiaplasty for complete results
• English-speaking staff available in major Seoul clinics for international patients

➤ Cost range

• The price varies by clinic and whether combined procedures are chosen.
• In Korea, clitoral hood reduction typically costs 1,500–3,000 USD, making it cost-effective compared to Western countries.

✅ Final Note: Clitoral hood reduction in Korea is a safe, effective, and confidence-boosting procedure for women seeking both functional comfort and aesthetic refinement. With skilled surgeons, advanced medical techniques, and supportive recovery care, Korea is one of the leading destinations for this delicate treatment.