Do I need a clitoral hood reduction? (Photo)

Question

I’m 19 and wondering if this is normal.

Mark N. Scheinberg, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questionLabia come in all different forms and they are all normal. The question of whether or not to have a reduction is you personally feel about your labia. I have many patients who have labia similar to yours who are perfectly comfortable and fine with the appearance. . I have others who may have discomfort due to the size or are self conscious of their appearance for whom reduction would improve their self image and make them feel better. That is a decision only you can make. If you choose surgery do your homework and be careful on your choice of surgeon. The video below may be of help

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office specializes in clitoral hood reduction and we have an article on the official American Society of Plastic Surgeons website. If you are functionally or cosmetically bothered by the excess skin around your clitoris, our reduction option is an excellent method to reshape the area and remove excess skin.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Oscar A. Aguirre, MD, FPMRS · Answer

Hello Mollymay2,
Thanks for your post and photo but it doesn't give a clear view of your full anatomy.
Your labia are normal, but you may not like how long they are. Whether you need your hood reduced at the time of a labiaplasty would be determined at the time of an exam.
Go to the link below to see hundreds of before and after photos where you will find many examples that may be similar to you. From that link you can schedule a virtual consultation via phone or zoom, at which time we can discuss in depth your anatomy, expectations and concerns. Women from all over the world travel to my Center for their Intimate Makeover.
Best of luck,

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Women’s genitalia vary greatly in appearance. If you aren’t experiencing any discomfort, then your clitoral hood is within the range of “normal”. You can confirm this with your gynaecologist.

Oliver Pope Simmons, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, As a surgeon who does genital cosmetic surgery, first there is no need to do any surgery on you. The labia minora are a little fuller than most, but there isn't anything abnormal about your genitalia. The fullness you see in the middle of the labia minora can be easily reduced if you are self conscience about it or if you have problems wearing tight bathing suits or things show in tight jeans. Also, some of my patients complain that sitting in certain positions can be uncomfortable with the lips getting caught from one side or another. WIth all that being said, there are very few if any true medical necessities to labial reduction surgery. If you were to come to me with this shaped labia, I would offer you surgery if and only if it were something you truly desired for your own self. Thanks
OPS

Jennifer Adams, MD · Answer

Hello there,
Whether or not the clitoral hood should be addressed is a common question my patients have. It typically depends on the individual's surgical goals and anatomy.In this picture, I cannot clearly see the clitoral hood. That being said, I also do not see any obvious redundancy of the hood. Perhaps submit another photo with the clitoral hood more visible.
Hope that helps!
Sincerely,Jennifer Adams.MD, FRCSC

Joe Gryskiewicz, MD, FACS · Answer

From looking at this picture, you more than likely would be a good candidate for a hood reduction . Of course you would want you to consult with the doctor of your choice.  We wish you the best.

Sue Kafali, MD · Answer

The photo provided does not show the clitoral hood. For a more accurate response you would need to submit a better photo to show the clitoral hood and the separation of the labia minora. All the best, Dr. Kafali

Courtenay Poucher, MD · Answer

Hello. 
There is a wide range of what is normal with labia. From you photo I can see that you have inner labia that protrude past the outer labia which is normal but if it bothers you (causes rubbing chaffing pain or discomfort) then it can be addressed. I also notice the skin appears chaffed and with a rough appearance. Again if this doesn’t cause discomfort then no worries. Should it be desired to reduce the size of the inner lips, the hood would also need reduction. Best wishes. Dr. Poucher

Marco A. Pelosi III, MD, FACOG, FACS · Answer

Your photo doesn't show your clitoral hood. What is does show is your labia minora and they appear normal. They protrude slightly and that is normal too.  This is not a sign of a medical problem or of a disease. If you don't like the appearance of the protruding labia minora, then you might be interested in a labiaplasty. If not, you can leave your labia alone.