Mons pubis liposuction

Mons pubis liposuction targets the layer of fatty tissue above the pubic bone. It is a minimally invasive procedure requiring only a small incision to remove excess fat from the area.

What the mons pubis is

The mons pubis is the soft tissue that sits over the pubic bone, above the vulva. It is normally a fatty pad, and it is the main hair-bearing area of the pubic region.

Fullness in this area can be caused by fatty tissue, by loose skin, or by both. It can become more prominent after pregnancy, after weight change, or with age.

What the procedure addresses

Mons pubis liposuction reduces the volume of fatty tissue over the pubic bone, which can reduce bulging in the pubic region and improve how clothing sits.

Results may vary depending on individual circumstances. Outcomes depend on individual anatomy, skin quality and the volume of fat removed.

Fat versus skin: liposuction and monsplasty

As with liposuction elsewhere on the body, this procedure removes fat. It does not remove excess skin.

Where loose or overhanging skin is part of the concern, a pubic lift (monsplasty) may be required. Monsplasty removes skin as well as fat and lifts the area, and leaves a longer scar than liposuction.

Both procedures are sometimes combined with an abdominoplasty, since the lower abdomen and the mons pubis sit adjacent to each other and the two areas often change together after pregnancy or weight loss. Where an abdominoplasty is already planned, addressing the mons at the same time can avoid a second procedure.

Which combination applies to you is determined at consultation with your surgeon.

What the procedure involves

A small incision is made and a cannula attached to a suction device removes fat from the treated area. The treatment area is numbed with a local anaesthetic where the procedure is performed alone; where it forms part of a larger procedure such as abdominoplasty, a general anaesthetic is used.

See local or general anaesthesia.

Suitability

A good candidate is in good general health with realistic expectations, has localised fatty tissue rather than predominantly loose skin, and is at a stable weight.

Liposuction is a contouring procedure rather than a weight loss method. Smokers have an increased risk of complications from any surgery.

Costs

Mons pubis liposuction falls within the general per-area surgeon's fee range of $4,000 to $8,000 for one area. Where it is performed as part of an abdominoplasty, it is quoted within that procedure - abdominoplasty ranges from $17,000 to $28,000.

Hospital, theatre and anaesthetist fees are additional where a general anaesthetic is used; anaesthetist fees range from $800 to $1,200 per hour. As at September 2024 and including GST, a consultation with a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is $350.

See liposuction costs.

Recovery

Where a general anaesthetic is used, you need someone to drive you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours.
Compression garments are worn to reduce swelling and assist recovery.
Expect swelling and bruising in the treated area, settling over the following weeks. Swelling in this area can take longer to resolve than in some others.
Avoid exercise for the first two weeks; gentle walking is encouraged.
Most people return to work after two to three weeks and to their usual exercise routine by around six weeks.
Wait six to eight weeks before swimming.

Most patients are seen at seven to ten days, then at six to eight weeks, three months, six months and twelve months. The final contour becomes clearer over several months.

Risks and complications

All surgical procedures carry risks and potential complications, including infection, bruising, swelling, pain, scarring, bleeding and haematoma, seroma, contour irregularity, changes in sensation from nerve damage, anaesthesia complications and blood clots.

Risks are discussed with you in detail during the consultation process, and you are given written information to take home. Please read our information on the risks and complications of cosmetic surgery before proceeding.

Individual results may vary. Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

Referral and cooling-off period

Since 1 July 2023, all patients are required to have a GP referral before seeing a plastic surgeon or doctor about cosmetic surgery. For any cosmetic surgery there is a compulsory one-week cooling-off period after your second consultation before surgery can be booked.

See tummy tuck surgery, vaginal surgery, liposuction, or liposuction costs.