Understanding FUPA: Causes, Management, and Treatment Options

Excess fat in the upper pubic area, commonly referred to as FUPA (fat upper pubic area), is a concern for many individuals. It can affect body confidence and comfort, prompting questions about its causes and the best ways to manage or remove it. Here, we explore what FUPA is, its possible causes, and both non-surgical and surgical options for those seeking to address it.

What is a FUPA?

FUPA refers to a concentration of excess fat above the pubic bone, often noticeable in tighter clothing such as jeans or leggings. Although it’s colloquially known as FUPA, medically, it may be referred to as an excess of suprapubic fat. The visibility of this area can vary widely depending on body type and weight distribution. Sometimes it can be referred to as the mummy pouch or mons fullness.

What are the causes of a FUPA?

Several factors can contribute to the development of FUPA, including:

• Genetics: Just as body shape and fat distribution are often inherited, so too is the tendency to accumulate fat in the upper pubic area.
• Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as those during puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, can cause fat to deposit in different areas, including the upper pubic region.
• Weight Gain and Loss: Rapid or significant weight changes can lead to uneven fat distribution. FUPA might become more noticeable after gaining weight or might remain stubborn fat after weight loss.
• Ageing: As we age, the metabolism slows down, and changes in body composition can lead to fat accumulation in areas like the pubic zone.
• Posture: Poor posture can also exacerbate the appearance of FUPA, as slouching or leaning forward can make the stomach area appear more pronounced.

Managing FUPA Non-Surgically

Before considering surgical options, there are non-invasive methods that might help manage and reduce the appearance of FUPA:

• Diet: Adopting a healthy, balanced diet can help reduce overall body fat. Focus on whole foods rich in fibers, proteins, and healthy fats to support fat loss and overall health.
• Exercise: While spot reduction of fat is not possible, overall body fat reduction through cardio and strength training can decrease fat accumulation everywhere, including the FUPA area. Incorporating exercises that strengthen the core can also help improve posture and the appearance of the midsection.
• Posture Improvement: Improving posture can significantly improve the appearance of FUPA. Engaging core muscles and ensuring proper alignment when sitting and standing can help flatten the stomach area.
• Compression Garments: Wearing compression garments can temporarily reduce the appearance of FUPA by smoothing out the area.
• Emsculpt Neo: Emsculpt Neo offers fat reduction and muscle strength building at the same time. This can help reduce some fullness in the pubic area and tone the muscles that weaken after having children.
• EvolveX: This is a hands-free, non-invasive total body treatment to remodel skin, treat cellulite, and tone muscles with RF energy and EMS.
• Cryolipolysis: This is fat freezing or Coolsculpting that uses heat to shrink and destroy fat cells.

Surgical Options for FUPA

For those looking for more permanent solutions, there are several surgical procedures:

• Liposuction: This is a popular surgical procedure for removing stubborn fat from specific areas, including the upper pubic area. Liposuction involves breaking up and sucking out fat through a small, thin tube called a cannula.
• Vaser Liposuction: Vaser is a technique that uses ultrasound to break down fat cells, making them easier to remove with liposuction. It is often used to give the tummy more definition.
• Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck): A tummy tuck might be appropriate for individuals with loose skin and excess fat. This surgery involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tightening the muscles of the abdominal wall.
• Monoplasty or Pubic Lift: This specific procedure targets the pubic area, reducing excess skin and fat to lift and tighten the region. It can be particularly beneficial following significant weight loss or bariatric surgery.
• BodyTite: This is a skin tightening and fat reduction procedure that can help reduce fat in the pubic area and can be combined with liposuction.

Considerations and Risks

Like all surgeries, procedures to reduce FUPA carry risks such as infection, scarring, and variations in aesthetic outcomes. The risks will vary depending on the procedure performed. It’s crucial to have realistic expectations and to discuss potential results and risks with our plastic surgeon. The choice of procedure will depend on individual factors like skin quality, amount of excess fat, overall health, and personal goals.

Conclusion

FUPA is a common concern and can be addressed through a combination of lifestyle adjustments and medical interventions. Whether you choose to manage it non-surgically or consider more permanent surgical options, it’s important to approach the issue with a realistic outlook and under the guidance of our team of experts. As always, a healthy lifestyle should be the cornerstone of any fat reduction strategy. If you are considering surgical options, then book a consultation with our surgeons to discuss your concerns and expectations and see what options may help you.

Ask the Expert

Mr Reza Nassab

Dr. Reza Nassab MBChB, MSc, MBA, FRCS (Plast) is a renowned consultant plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic surgery. He performs a wide range of procedures for the face, breast, body, and skin. His expertise has made him one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgeons in the North West, Cheshire, and the UK, with a vast clientele from around the world, including Dubai, Ireland, Finland, France, and Spain.

Dr. Nassab takes a holistic approach in his bespoke consultation, where he identifies his patients’ expectations and desires. He discusses unique options specific to each patient’s needs to help achieve realistic goals. He believes that every patient has unique goals and anatomy, and therefore, each treatment plan has to be tailored to that individual.

Dr. Nassab is the go-to plastic surgeon for celebrities and influencers. He has been featured on the TV show The Real Housewives of Cheshire, where he performed procedures such as the Mummy Makeover and Eyelid Lift. Additionally, he has been featured on the ITV show Olivia Attwood’s Price of Perfection. He is well-known for his breast augmentation surgery, and many of his celebrity patients have shared their stories in the press and media.