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Glossary C
Clitoral Hood
A fibrous covering to the clitoris which is the exact equivalent to the male foreskin, having developed from the same initial tissue structure. Like the male foreskin it can sometimes be too thick or long to retract during sexual excitement and thus can prevent the stimulus to the clitoris needed for orgasm. It can be trimmed or removed by true female circumcision to enable proper stimulation of the clitoris.
Clitoris
A small organ in the female genitals which is the exact equivalent to the male penis, having developed from the same initial tissue structure. Like the penis it is the primary organ of sexual pleasure.
Collagen/fat injectable fillers
(Also soft-tissue augmentation.) - a plastic surgery technique used to correct wrinkles, depressions in the skin, and/or scarring.
computed tomography scan (Also called a CT or CAT scan.) - a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of x-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays.
Congenital
Present at birth.
Congenital anomaly
A health problem present at birth (not necessarily genetic).
Cannula
A hollow tube attached to a high-vacuum device used to remove fat through liposuction. The plastic surgeon manipulates the cannula within the fat layers under the skin, dislodging the fat and "vacuuming" it out.
Capsular contracture
The most common complication of breast reconstruction surgery; occurs if the scar or capsule around the implant begins to tighten.
Cellulite
Cellulite is the dimpled-looking fat that often appears on the buttocks, thighs and hips. While there is no treatment that will eradicate this problem, aesthetic plastic surgeons are exploring new techniques which may improve the condition. One method is to cut the fibrous tissue that binds the fat down in these areas and creates the lumpy appearance, and then to inject fact withdrawn from elsewhere in the body to smooth out the unevenness. Another technique, called the cellulite lift, surgically removes excess skin and fat, leaving a thin scar that may extend around the full circumference of the abdomen but is placed discreetly within bikini lines.
Contractures
An abnormal condition of a joint caused by a loss of muscle fibers or a loss of the normal flexibility of the skin.
Contracture scar
A type of scar in which a permanent tightening of skin occurs, often in response to a burn. This type of scar may affect the underlying muscles and tendons, limiting mobility and possibly damaging the nerves.
Corrections of the labia
See Labiaplasty
Corrections of the vagina
See vaginoplasty
Cosmetic plastic surgery
(Also aesthetic plastic surgery.) - one type of plastic surgery performed to repair or reshape otherwise normal structures of the body, primarily to improve the patient's appearance and self-esteem.
