The acronym FUPA stands for Fat Upper Pubic Area, a common term referring to the accumulation of excess fatty tissue and sometimes loose skin located directly above the genitals. This tissue forms a mound over the pubic bone, which is anatomically known as the mons pubis. When surgery is performed to address this specific area, the procedure is formally called a Monsplasty. This surgical intervention is designed to reduce the volume and reshape the contour of the mons pubis, providing a smoother, flatter appearance to the upper pubic region.
The Definitive Procedure: Monsplasty
A Monsplasty is a body contouring procedure focused on lifting and reducing the volume of the mons pubis. The primary purpose of this surgery is to address excess fat and sagging skin that creates a noticeable bulge above the groin. While diet and exercise can reduce fat, they often fail to remove stubborn deposits or tighten skin that has lost elasticity.
The procedure is commonly sought by individuals who have experienced significant weight fluctuations, especially following massive weight loss, or women post-pregnancy. Hormonal shifts and genetic predisposition can also contribute to an enlarged mons pubis. Beyond aesthetic concerns, a prominent mons can sometimes cause functional issues, such as difficulty with hygiene or discomfort during sexual activity.
Surgical Techniques and Incisions
A standalone Monsplasty involves a combination of tissue removal techniques to achieve the desired contour. The surgeon typically places a low horizontal incision, often concealed within or just above the pubic hairline. This placement is similar to a C-section scar but is positioned to remain discreetly covered by undergarments or swimwear.
The primary method for reduction is direct surgical excision, which removes both excess skin and the underlying fatty tissue. Once excised, the remaining skin and underlying structures are lifted and tightened, providing a flatter profile. This skin removal is the definitive difference between a Monsplasty and simple liposuction.
In many cases, the procedure is combined with liposuction to achieve optimal contouring of the surrounding fat. Liposuction uses a small cannula to suction out specific fat deposits, refining the edges of the treated area and ensuring a smoother transition to the abdomen. For patients with primarily excess fat and minimal skin laxity, liposuction alone may be performed, but a Monsplasty is required if skin removal is necessary.
Recovery and Post-Operative Care
Following a Monsplasty, patients should expect a period of rest and careful post-operative management. A compression garment is typically worn constantly for several weeks to minimize swelling, support the newly contoured area, and aid in skin redraping. Mild to moderate discomfort, bruising, and swelling are common, with symptoms often peaking within the first two to three days after surgery.
Patients are encouraged to take short, slow walks starting the day after surgery to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. Most people can return to light, desk-based work within one to two weeks, but strenuous activities, including heavy lifting, intense exercise, and sexual activity, are restricted for four to six weeks to ensure proper internal healing.
FUPA Reduction as Part of a Tummy Tuck
FUPA reduction is frequently addressed as an integrated component of a broader body contouring procedure, most commonly an Abdominoplasty, also known as a Tummy Tuck. An Abdominoplasty removes excess skin and fat from the entire abdomen and often includes tightening the underlying abdominal muscles.
When performed together, the low horizontal incision used for the Tummy Tuck is extended to simultaneously address the mons pubis. This combined approach is effective because the tightening of the abdominal skin naturally pulls upward on the suprapubic area, contributing to the lift and flattening of the mons pubis. The decision between a standalone Monsplasty or a combined procedure depends on whether the patient has excess skin and fat in the abdomen that also needs correction.