The clitoris is frequently compared to the penis because of the concentration of nerve endings that exists there. Specifically located in the glans, more commonly referred to as the head, it is intensely sensitive to touch, much like the glans penis. For this reason, the clitoral head is the primary source of sexual pleasure for most women, becoming erect when aroused and producing an orgasm when stimulated. Its sexual role is often considered to be its sole function.

The clitoral head lies underneath a covering of skin, known as the prepuce (the equivalent of foreskin on the penis). The size of the hood varies greatly, totally independent of the size or height of the woman.

For some women, the prepuce or hood is so large that it prevents the head from becoming aroused. This may be caused by such factors as genetics or hormonal changes. An enlarged prepuce can hide the clitoral head, causing an inability to stimulate the area and achieve sexual gratification.

DLV® Clitoral hood reduction is a cosmetic surgical procedure that allows women to reduce the amount of tissue that covers the clitoral head so that sexual function can be more easily achieved. Also known as clitoral hoodectomy, it is part of female genital refinement and is increasing in popularity in North America.

Clitoral Hood Reduction surgery is not preformed solely for women who want to expose the clitoral head for enhanced sexual pleasure. It can also be performed on individuals who have an excess amount of clitoral hood tissue which, when certain clothing is worn, causes discomfort or irritation. It may also be seen as aesthetically undesirable.

Clitoral Hood Reduction and Prepuce Reduction is a relatively short outpatient procedure. Local or general anesthesia may be administered. During surgery, a designated amount of excess hood tissue is removed with the help of a specialized laser to allow accessibility to the clitoris so that it can be stimulated more easily. Only the hood is affected - the clitoral head is not altered in anyway. The procedure can be performed simultaneously with other female genital enhancement procedures, such as hymenoplasty and vaginal tightening.

Often, an enlarged prepuce exists when there is also enlarged labial lips. As a result, clitoral hoodectomy is commonly performed in conjunction with labioplasty.

Clitoral hoodectomy can create an overall aesthetically pleasing genital area for women aged 18 years or over who wish to have normal sexual appearance or function. Whatever may be the cause of the enlarged prepuce, there is no generally accepted nonsurgical solution to the condition.