Ask Dr. Poucher
Top Los Angeles Labiaplasty Surgeon
Differences Between Clitorial Hood Reduction & Clitoropexy
The Question
“I have a mild case of clitoromegaly. It is masked in the non-aroused state, however when I am aroused, my clitoris protrudes more than usual and causes me a lot of psychological distress, as it looks like a small penis. Also, if I am aroused, there is a sense of physical discomfort with the protrusion when I cross my legs or am walking or sitting down, as it rubs against the labia majora. Would a clitoropexy fix this?”
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The Answer
By Dr. Courtenay Poucher, MD, FACOG, certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the National Society of Cosmetic Physicians
Thank you so much for sharing something so personal. I want you to know that what you are experiencing is more common than you may realize and that your concerns are valid, both physically and emotionally.
On the psychological distress:
First and foremost: You deserve to feel comfortable and confident in your own body. The distress you are describing, particularly around how your anatomy appears during arousal, is something I hear from patients more often than most people would expect. There is absolutely no shame in seeking answers and exploring solutions. Advocating for your own comfort and confidence is always the right thing to do.
On whether clitoropexy is the right solution:
Clitoropexy is a procedure designed to reposition and stabilize the clitoris – and it can be an appropriate option for certain patients. However, I want to be honest with you: The answer to whether it is the right procedure for you specifically depends entirely on a careful, in-person evaluation of your anatomy. Clitoromegaly can vary significantly from patient to patient in terms of degree, underlying cause and how the tissue behaves and the treatment approach needs to reflect that individuality.
In some cases, a clitoral hood reduction alone can create the appearance of better proportion and containment, which may address both the aesthetic and the physical discomfort concerns you are describing. In other cases, a more involved approach is appropriate. Sometimes a combination of procedures is the most effective path. I would never make a specific recommendation without examining your anatomy.
On the physical discomfort:
The rubbing and pressure you experience during movement and when crossing your legs is a legitimate functional concern, not just an aesthetic one. Procedures that address functional discomfort are an important part of what we do at Labiaplasty Center of Los Angeles, and your comfort in everyday life is every bit as important as how you feel about your appearance.
The most important next step:
I would strongly encourage you to schedule an in-person consultation with an experienced surgeon. This is not a situation where a general answer will serve you well; you deserve individualized attention and answers that are in alignment with your unique anatomy.
Do you have a question about non-surgical vaginal rejuvenation, labiaplasty or other intimate surgeries you’d like answered by Los Angeles labiaplasty specialist Dr. Courtenay Poucher? Use our contact form to connect with us. We will answer as many questions via our blog as time allows.