Monsplasty, sometimes referred to as a pubic lift, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that targets excess fat and skin in the mons pubis—the area above the pubic bone, also known as the “FUPA” (Fat Upper Pubic Area). This procedure is ideal for individuals who feel self-conscious or uncomfortable due to fullness, sagging, or bulging in this region, often following weight fluctuations, pregnancy, or natural aging.

How is Monsplasty Performed?

A monsplasty is typically performed as an outpatient or daycase procedure and involves the following steps:

1. Anaesthesia: The procedure can be performed under local anaesthetic for minor adjustments or under general anaesthetic if combined with other procedures (such as a tummy tuck). Under local anaesthesia, the area is numbed, which may be suitable for patients with less excess tissue.

2. Incision: There is an incision in the natural crease of the groin area and above the pubic hair area. This placement minimises visible scarring after healing. This is similar to a C section scar or mini tummy tuck. It may be longer if more skin removal is required. It can be incorporated into a tummy tuck scar if this being done at the same time.

3. Removal of Fat and Skin: Depending on the patient’s needs, we may perform liposuction to remove excess fat. In cases where loose skin is also present, they will remove the redundant skin and tighten the area for a smoother contour.

4. Closing the Incision: Once the adjustments are made, we will close the incision using sutures. The goal is to achieve a tighter, lifted appearance in the pubic area. The sutures are usually dissolvable under the under skin so you will not need to have any stitches removed.

The procedure typically takes one to two hours, but the duration can vary depending on the extent of correction and whether it’s combined with other treatments.

Can You Have Monsplasty Under Local Anaesthetic?

Yes, monsplasty can be performed under local anaesthetic for patients requiring minor corrections or minimal skin removal. Local anaesthesia is often preferred for those who wish to avoid general anaesthetic, as it offers a quicker recovery time and may reduce certain risks associated with anaesthesia. However, the suitability for local anaesthetic will be discussed during your consultation with Mr Nassab and based on the patient’s comfort level, pain tolerance, and specific treatment goals.

Who is a Good Candidate for Monsplasty?

Good candidates for monsplasty generally include individuals who:

• Have excess fat or sagging skin in the mons pubis region, often due to weight loss, pregnancy, or aging.

• Experience discomfort or self-consciousness due to the appearance of their mons area in clothing, swimwear, or intimate situations.

• Have realistic expectations about the results, understanding that monsplasty targets the mons pubis area specifically.

• Are in good overall health, ideally non-smokers, as smoking can impede healing and increase complications.

• Are at or near their target weight, as significant weight fluctuations post-surgery could impact results.

It’s essential to book a consultation with Mr Nassab, plastic surgeon in Manchester and Cheshire, who can evaluate their anatomy, discuss goals, and determine if monsplasty or a combination approach (such as monsplasty with liposuction) is the best option.

What is the Recovery After Monsplasty?

Recovery from monsplasty is typically straightforward, especially when performed as a standalone procedure. Here’s what patients can expect:

• Immediate Post-Operative Period: After the procedure, patients may experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the treated area. Pain is usually manageable with prescribed pain relief and cold compresses.

• First Few Days: Most patients are advised to rest for at least 24–48 hours post-surgery. While light activities may be resumed within a few days, strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and high-impact exercises should be avoided for several weeks.

• Wearing Compression Garments: In many cases, wearing a compression garment helps reduce swelling, supports the healing tissues, and assists in achieving optimal contours. Patients may need to wear this garment for a few weeks, depending on their surgeon’s recommendations.

• Return to Daily Activities: Many patients can return to work within one to two weeks, depending on the nature of their job and the extent of the surgery. Light exercise can typically be resumed after about four to six weeks.

• Full Recovery: Swelling gradually decreases over the first few months, with final results often visible around three to six months post-surgery.

Following the aftercare instructions is crucial for a smooth recovery and optimal results. You will have a follow up appointment at 1 week to review the incisions and then another appointment at 6-8 weeks.

What Are the Risks of Monsplasty?

While monsplasty is generally considered safe, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications to be aware of:

• Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection, but following post-operative care instructions significantly reduces this risk. Signs of infection include fever, redness, and discharge from the incision site.

• Bleeding or Haematoma: Although uncommon, excessive bleeding or the formation of a haematoma (a collection of blood outside the blood vessels) may occur and could require additional intervention.

• Poor Wound Healing or Scarring: While incisions are placed to be as inconspicuous as possible, some patients may develop visible scars or experience delayed wound healing. This is more common among smokers or those with certain medical conditions affecting circulation. Sometimes scars can become raised or lumpy also known as hypertrophic or keloid scars. This will be based on each individual’s healing and how much tension there is in the wound.

• Seroma: This involves the build-up of fluid under the skin in the treated area. Seromas can be managed by drainage and usually resolve with time.

• Changes in Sensation: Numbness or changes in sensation in the pubic area can occur post-surgery. This may improve with time but there may always be some areas of numbness.

• Asymmetry or Unsatisfactory Results: In some cases, results may not align with patient expectations or may appear asymmetrical. There may be changes with time and weight as well which can affect the results.

Conclusion

Monsplasty can be a transformative procedure for those struggling with excess fat or sagging skin in the mons pubis area. With options to perform it under local or general anaesthetic and the ability to combine it with other body contouring treatments, monsplasty offers a tailored approach for those looking to achieve a more refined and comfortable body contour.

If you’re considering monsplasty, book a consultation with Mr Reza Nassab, consultant plastic surgeon in Manchester, Cheshire and Dubai. We can assess your anatomy, review your aesthetic goals, and discuss the best surgical plan for optimal outcomes.