A mons lift, formally known as a monsplasty, is a cosmetic or reconstructive procedure designed to reshape and tighten the tissue located directly above the pubic bone. This surgical intervention targets the excess skin and fatty tissue that can accumulate in this region. The procedure aims to restore a smoother, more contoured transition between the lower abdomen and the genital area by addressing the drooping or bulging of this tissue, a condition called mons pubis ptosis.
Defining the Mons Pubis and the Goal of the Lift
The mons pubis is an anatomical structure made of fatty tissue that sits directly over the pubic symphysis, the joint where the pubic bones meet. This natural mound of tissue serves as a protective cushion and is typically covered by skin and pubic hair after puberty.
The primary goal of a mons lift is to reduce the bulk and excess skin of this mound, achieving a flatter and more elevated contour. This cosmetic refinement creates a more streamlined appearance in the lower pelvic area. The lift also serves a functional purpose, as a prominent or sagging mons can cause discomfort, hygiene issues, and chafing.
It is helpful to differentiate this procedure from a standard tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, which focuses on tightening the abdominal wall muscles and removing excess skin below the navel. While often performed together, the mons lift specifically targets the tissue above the pubic bone. By reducing and elevating the mons pubis, the procedure aims to create a harmonious blend between the abdomen and the upper genital region.
Primary Causes of Mons Pubis Sagging
Several significant life events and biological processes can lead to the need for a mons lift by compromising the skin’s elasticity and causing disproportionate fat accumulation. A major indicator for the procedure is massive weight fluctuation, such as post-bariatric surgery weight loss. When a large volume of fat is lost rapidly, the stretched skin is unable to retract, resulting in redundant, sagging folds of tissue.
Natural aging also plays a role as the body’s production of collagen and elastin—proteins that provide skin structure and resilience—diminishes over time. This loss of elasticity, combined with hormonal shifts like decreased estrogen during menopause, can lead to a general descent and flattening of the mons pubis.
Pregnancy and childbirth, particularly a C-section, can contribute to the issue. The stretching of the abdominal wall and underlying tissues during pregnancy, along with the surgical scar from a cesarean delivery, can cause fat or skin to settle and bulge above the pubic incision. The mons lift is frequently performed alongside a tummy tuck to correct these changes in the lower body contour.
The Surgical Procedure and Techniques
The mons lift is typically performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, depending on whether it is a standalone procedure or combined with other surgeries. The surgeon begins by marking the area to be treated, ensuring the planned excision line will be concealed within the natural bikini line or a pre-existing scar, such as a C-section incision.
The procedure often employs a dual approach to achieve optimal contour. First, liposuction is frequently used to remove the bulk of the deep fatty tissue, or “debulk” the area, which reduces the overall volume of the mound. This step is crucial for sculpting the remaining tissue.
Following fat removal, the surgeon makes a horizontal, transverse elliptical incision to excise the excess skin and fat that causes the sagging. A defining feature of the mons lift is the dermal-fascial suspension, where strong internal sutures anchor the underlying mons tissue to the rigid layer of the abdominal fascia. This suspension technique physically lifts the tissue, preventing future drooping and maintaining the newly tightened, elevated contour. The outer incision is then meticulously closed in layers to minimize tension and promote a fine-line scar.
Recovery Timeline and Expected Results
Immediately following the mons lift, patients must wear a specialized compression garment continuously for several weeks (three to six weeks). This garment minimizes post-operative swelling, controls fluid accumulation, and supports the newly contoured area as it heals. Small drainage tubes may be temporarily placed under the skin for a few days to remove excess fluid and blood, reducing the risk of a seroma.
The initial recovery phase involves managing moderate discomfort, bruising, and swelling, which typically peak within the first few days and gradually subside over the first week. Most patients are able to return to light, non-strenuous activities, such as desk work, within one to two weeks after the surgery.
Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or any activity that puts tension on the incision site must be avoided for four to six weeks to prevent complications like wound separation. Patients are also advised to refrain from sexual activity for a similar period (typically three to six weeks) to allow tissues to heal completely. While the final contour is immediately visible, the scar will go through a maturation process, initially appearing red and raised. It can take anywhere from nine to eighteen months for the scar to soften, flatten, and fade to its final, less noticeable appearance.