Skip to content Noticing a bulge sitting just above your pubic bone?
FUPA refers to the Fat Upper Pubic Area. It’s a common concern for both men and women, and while it isn’t dangerous, it can affect how clothes fit and how confident you feel.
If you want to know the ins and outs of FUPA, this blog is for you.
Let’s explore what it actually means, its causes, how to get rid of it and prevent it for a seamless contour.
FUPA stands for “Fat Upper Pubic Area.” It’s the extra fat that sits just above the pubic bone, at the lower part of your tummy. Doctors sometimes call this fat the panniculus. It’s not the same as general belly fat. Belly fat can spread across the whole stomach, while a FUPA sits lower, in a smaller pocket just above the pubic bone.
Many people also confuse a FUPA with a hernia or with simple bloating. Here’s the difference:
A FUPA doesn’t appear overnight. It can develop for different reasons, some natural and some linked to lifestyle.
Your genes play a big part in how your body stores fat. If relatives also carry more weight around the pubic area, you may notice the same. Even people with a healthy weight can still have a small FUPA just because of genetics.
Rapid weight gain can add fat to the lower belly and pubic area. On the other hand, losing weight too quickly may leave extra skin behind. That loose skin can fold or sag, making the FUPA more visible even if fat is gone.
During pregnancy, the skin and muscles of the lower abdomen stretch significantly to accommodate the growing baby. After birth, some of that stretched skin and fat can remain. For many women, this is one of the main reasons a FUPA or apron belly appears.
As we age, metabolism slows down, so the body burns fewer calories at rest. Hormones also change, especially around menopause, which can push fat to store more in the tummy and pubic region.
Operations like C-sections or other abdominal surgeries can change how fat and skin sit in that area. Scar tissue, weaker muscles, or stretched skin may all add to the look of a FUPA.
Remember: Each person’s reason is different. For some, it’s mostly fat, for others it’s skin or both. That’s why the right solution often depends on the cause.
Yes. A FUPA can affect anyone, men and women alike. But the reasons can look a little different.
Pregnancy and childbirth are big factors. The belly stretches to make room for the baby, and after birth, some skin and fat can stay around the lower tummy and pubic area. Hormone changes over time, like during menopause, can also cause fat storage in this spot.
Men may notice a FUPA if they gain weight, lose muscle tone with age, or if their testosterone levels drop. These changes can shift fat storage towards the lower belly and pubic area.
Bottom line: FUPA isn’t only a “women’s issue”; it’s a body change that can show up in anyone.
‘How to get rid of pubic fat?’ If you’ve got this question, let’s break down all the options, from non-surgical to surgical, and at-home tips.
These treatments focus on melting fat, tightening skin, or toning muscles, and usually come with shorter recovery times compared to surgery.
Fat dissolving injections use a special solution (often deoxycholic acid) to break down fat cells, which the body then clears away naturally. They are placed directly into the fatty tissue of the pubic area.
You can notice gradual fat loss over several weeks, with repeat sessions often needed.
They also help in reducing knee fat.
BodyTite is a minimally invasive procedure that uses radiofrequency energy inside the tissue to melt fat and tighten skin at the same time. A small probe is inserted under the skin, so it’s not fully “non-surgical,” but recovery is much easier than traditional surgery.
It is best for FUPA with loose skin, resulting in a tighter and longer-lasting contour.
BodyJet Liposuction uses a gentle stream of water to loosen and remove fat cells. Because it’s less traumatic than traditional liposuction, there is less bruising and a quicker recovery. It can be done under local anaesthetic.
You can see immediate fat reduction, and the final contour is visible in a few weeks.
CoolSculpting treatment focuses on controlled cooling to freeze fat cells in the pubic area. Over the following weeks, the body naturally clears out the frozen cells. Results appear gradually and are permanent as long as you maintain your weight.
It can be best for people with stubborn fat that doesn’t go away with diet and exercise.
EMSculpt uses electromagnetic energy to trigger thousands of strong muscle contractions in a short time. These contractions burn fat and build muscle, giving the pubic and lower tummy area more tone.
It results in firmer lower abs that are visible in 4-6 weeks.
HIFU sends powerful ultrasound waves deep into the tissue, destroying fat cells and stimulating collagen production. It not only reduces fat but also lifts and firms the skin. It is best for individuals with small to medium pockets of fat plus sagging skin.
When a FUPA is larger, hangs down, or does not respond to other strategies, surgery may be a solution. The surgical options include:
Monsplasty is the surgery designed specifically for a FUPA. It removes both fat and loose skin from the pubic area, lifting and tightening it. It is ideal for people with extra fat and sagging skin.
You may need 1-2 weeks off work after the surgery; however, the results last long.
This procedure uses a thin tube to suction out fat from the pubic mound. It does not remove skin, so it works best when skin elasticity is still good.
People with firm skin and mainly fat bulges are the ideal candidates. Mild swelling and bruising may occur in the treatment area for 1-2 weeks. It results in immediate fat reduction.
A tummy tuck removes extra fat and skin from the whole lower abdomen. It also tightens weak or stretched abdominal muscles. Many surgeons include the pubic area in the procedure to achieve natural-looking results.
People with FUPA plus belly overhang or muscle separation are the ideal candidates. The procedure results in a stronger core, flatter tummy, and improved pubic contour.
Exercise alone cannot spot-reduce fat from the pubic area, but a combination of core training and cardio can help lower overall body fat and tone the lower abdomen. With time and consistency, this makes a FUPA less noticeable.
These exercises tighten the lower abs and muscles that support the pubic area.
When you do cardio, your body burns more calories and help reduce overall body fat, including stubborn fat around the pubic area.
When you get a healthy diet, good sleep, and control stress , exercise do wonders. Together, these habits support long-term fat loss and help shrink a FUPA naturally.
You cannot spot-reduce fat, but you can reduce overall body fat. This often helps shrink the pubic area too.
Natural steps include:
You are what you eat. Choose whole foods like fruit, veg, lean protein, and whole grains. Avoid too much sugar, fried food, and processed snacks. Eating in a calorie deficit helps the body burn fat everywhere, including the pubic area.
Cardio, such as walking, running, cycling, or swimming, helps burn fat. Try 30 minutes a day, most days of the week. Do not miss core workouts like planks, leg raises, and pelvic tilts. They tone the lower tummy and makes the area look flatter.
Good sleep (7–9 hours) and lower stress levels support fat loss. High stress raises the hormone cortisol, which makes fat collect around the belly.
Staying hydrated helps reduce bloating and supports fat burning. Aim for 6–8 glasses daily.
Natural steps work best for small to medium FUPAs. Larger ones may need extra medical help.
While you can’t always control things like genetics or ageing, there are steps you can take to lower the risk of developing a FUPA.
Avoid big weight swings. Slow, steady weight management helps stop extra fat from collecting in the lower tummy.
Regular exercise keeps fat levels lower and muscles stronger. A mix of cardio (walking, running, cycling) and core workouts (planks, leg raises, pelvic tilts) helps keep the area toned.
Strong core muscles and good skin elasticity reduce the chance of sagging in the pubic area. Pilates, yoga, and strength training all help.
After pregnancy or abdominal surgery, gentle exercise, healthy eating, and scar care can reduce the chance of a FUPA forming.
Prevention isn’t always perfect, but these habits lower the risk and also make it easier to reduce a FUPA if it develops later.
The best treatment depends on your body, your goals, and how much FUPA you have.
The safest way: See a qualified specialist. They can check your body, skin, and goals, then guide you to the right option.
You should book an appointment if your FUPA:
A specialist can examine you and explain whether diet, non-surgical, or surgical treatments will give you the best results.
A FUPA is more common than most people think, and it can happen to anyone, no matter your body type. While healthy habits and exercise can help in many cases, sometimes the extra fat or skin doesn’t fully go away on its own. That’s when non-surgical treatments or surgery may be the better choice.
If you want a minimally invasive treatment with quick results, book a consultation at Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds.
You don’t have to live with being underconfident, because safe, effective solutions are available to help you look and feel your best.
It looks like a soft bulge of fat just above the pubic bone, at the lower part of the tummy.
Yes, it can get smaller with weight loss, exercise, or treatments. Sometimes, surgery is needed if the skin is loose.
A FUPA sits low, just above the pubic bone. Belly fat spreads across the whole stomach area.
Eat whole foods like fruit, veg, lean meat, and whole grains. Exercise often with cardio (walking, running, cycling) and core moves (planks, leg raises, pelvic tilts). Moreover, sleep well, stay hydrated, and destress yourself.
Please provide your details, and we will get back to you shortly.
Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We're still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
A swollen eyelid can appear suddenly and make your eye feel heavy, uncomfortable, or sore. While it often looks alarming, most cases are harmless and temporary. A common question many people ask is how long a swollen eyelid lasts, especially when the swelling doesn’t go down straight away. The answer depends on the cause, which […]
Waking up with a swollen eyelid can be uncomfortable, worrying, and sometimes confusing. For many people, it comes on suddenly, overnight, or within the first minutes of waking up, with no apparent cause. As with other symptoms, eyelid swelling may have a slow onset and become difficult to overlook. As well, while a swollen eyelid […]
Disclaimer: This is educational content. It is not medical advice and should not replace guidance from your doctor or healthcare professional. Always speak to your healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication. Ozempic is a medicine used to manage type 2 diabetes. It may cause side effects, just like medicines do. Some are mild, […]
Ozempic injections can be given in three main areas: the stomach (abdomen), the thighs, and the upper arms. These are the safest and most effective spots because the medication goes under the skin into fatty tissue, where it works best. Knowing the right site and how to rotate your injections is important to avoid skin […]
When most people hear the word fat, they immediately connect it with weight gain, poor health, or an unhealthy lifestyle. But in reality, fat is one of the most important components of the human body. Without fat, we simply cannot survive. It plays an important role in protecting our organs, storing energy, maintaining body temperature, […]
Explore Personalised Beauty Solutions
Please provide your details, and we will get back to you shortly.
Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We’re still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
We’ll use your details to contact you about your enquiry.
Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We’re still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Mark Gorman is a consultant plastic surgeon and department lead at Salford Royal, specialising in facial plastics and complex reconstructive procedures. His expertise spans a wide range of areas, including oculoplastic, nasal, ear, abdominal, and microsurgical reconstruction, with particular focus on breast, head and neck, and lower limb reconstruction.
With a non-surgical and surgical skillet, Dr. Gorman is known for using advanced techniques to achieve natural, harmonious results. His approach often integrates dermal fillers and fat transfer to enhance facial features in combination with a range of deep plane facelifts.
Beyond facial aesthetics, his specialties include high-definition liposuction, allowing for precise body contouring.
Dr. Gorman’s approach to plastic surgery is rooted in skill, combining technical precision with a deep understanding of aesthetics to achieve refined and personalised outcomes for each patient.Dr.Gorman is a key opinion leader (KOL) for major UK aesthetic companies, also has taught at BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons), bringing his expertise to the next generation of surgeons.
Additionally, he runs his own aesthetic training company, further extending his influence in the field.Dedicated to total well-being, Dr. Gorman created the Look Body Mind philosophy, which blends aesthetics and wellness for a holistic approach to beauty.Whether you’re looking for subtle enhancements or comprehensive reconstructive work, Dr. Gorman’s patient-centered care, grounded in precision, skill and an exceptional aesthetic eye, ensures that you will feel confident throughout your journey.
Administrator
Sophie brings over a decade of customer service expertise to her role as Receptionist at Yorkshire Skin Centre. With a strong foundation in retail management and the travel industry, she is recognised for her warm, approachable manner and professional attitude—ensuring every client feels welcomed and valued from the moment they arrive.
Highly organised and calm under pressure, Sophie thrives in fast-paced environments and seamlessly manages a wide range of front-of-house responsibilities.
As the first point of contact for many clients, she plays a vital role in maintaining the clinic’s high standards of service and creating a smooth, reassuring experience for all visitors.
Beyond her professional skills, Sophie brings a vibrant energy to the team. She has a passion for travel, fashion, and music, and is currently learning both Spanish and Arabic. Her dedication to personal growth, combined with her friendly and proactive approach, makes her an indispensable part of our team.
Senior Surgical Sister(RN)
Herezel McCourt is a highly experienced Registered Nurse at Yorkshire Skin Centre, bringing over two decades of clinical expertise across diverse surgical and medical specialties. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Perioperative Practice from Huddersfield University, UK, and a BSc in Nursing from Cebu Doctors’ University in the Philippines.
Herezel has spent the majority of her career within the NHS, most recently as a Clinical Specialist in Ophthalmic Surgery at The MidYorkshire Teaching NHS Trust.
Her extensive background includes roles in operating theatres, anaesthetic care, ENT, urology, plastics, maxillofacial, orthopaedic, and podiatric nursing, among others.
Renowned for her professionalism, dedication, and compassionate care, Herezel is also a trained mentor, assessor, and ANTT trainer. She has led initiatives in recruitment, risk assessment, SOP development, and patient care pathway planning. Her leadership credentials are strengthened by a Level 3 Award in First Line Management and a strong commitment to staff development and peer support.
Herezel is a calm and supportive presence to both patients and colleagues, and her attention to clinical excellence makes her an invaluable member of the Yorkshire Skin Centre team.
Clinical Assistant
Rhea Levitt is a highly experienced Clinical Assistant at Yorkshire Skin Centre, known for her hands-on approach, warm personality, and commitment to delivering high-quality patient care. With a solid background in healthcare settings, Rhea brings valuable clinical expertise and administrative support to the team.
Her wide-ranging experience includes phlebotomy, wound care, ECGs, diabetic foot checks, B12 injections, and assisting in minor surgical procedures. She is also skilled in patient health monitoring, spirometry, and providing support during clinics such as coil fittings and cancer care.
Rhea’s well-rounded clinical knowledge is matched by her excellent organisational skills and a calm, compassionate approach to patient wellbeing.
In addition to her clinical duties, Rhea supports the practice by carrying out internal audits and ensuring best practices are upheld throughout the clinic. She plays a key role in maintaining smooth day-to-day operations and upholding the high standards that Yorkshire Skin Centre is known for.
Dedicated, professional, and always ready to help, Rhea is an invaluable member of the team who helps ensure that every patient receives attentive, safe, and seamless care.
Administrator
Raman holds a Bachelor of Science with Bachelor of Education (BSc, BEd) from India, a qualification that integrates scientific studies and teaching education, equipping her with a strong foundation in both fields. She is currently building her career in the UK healthcare industry, bringing her hardworking, compassionate, and friendly nature to the team.
With valuable experience in customer service and patient care, Raman plays a key role in managing day-to-day operations, handling bookings, and ensuring a smooth and welcoming experience for all patients.
Her dedication to excellence and passion for healthcare and client well-being make her an integral part of our team.
Practitioner
Nichola is a highly skilled practitioner with a strong background in beauty and holistic therapies. She earned her Level 3 Beauty Therapy qualification with distinction from the Yorkshire College of Beauty and further enhanced her expertise with Level 4 Specialist training. She is also CIDESCO-certified, an internationally recognized gold standard in beauty and spa therapy, ensuring clients receive the highest level of care and treatments.
With 18 years of customer service experience, primarily in the hospitality industry, Nichola deeply understands the importance of building strong client relationships. She is known for her hardworking nature, punctuality, and dedication to continuous learning.
Passionate about skincare and wellness, Nichola is committed to expanding her expertise in a leading skin clinic. She believes that the knowledge and experience she gains will be invaluable in delivering the highest standard of care to her clients.
“ Your journey to skin perfection starts here. Leave your details, and our expert team will be in touch shortly.”
Please note: Yorkshire Skin Centre now operates as Abela Medical Ltd. You may hear this name when we contact you, send emails, or process payments. We’re still the same clinic, in the same location, with the same team looking after you.
Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Dr Raj Thethi is a Northern Territory Regional Expert for an international dermal filler company called Teoxane. He also sits on their National UK Faculty. He is nationally recognised leader in the field of Aesthetics and a skilled trainer up..Yorkshire Skin Centre in Leeds is a CQC registered medical clinic. Led by Dr Raj Thethi who completed his core surgical training in hospitals around West Yorkshire before branching into aesthetic medicine.
Clinic Director
Founder and Medical Director
Dr Raj is the Founder and Clinical Director of the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. With a successful career in aesthetics and a passion for patient care, Dr. Raj found that his expertise in facial aesthetics was a natural progression where he could showcase his warm and friendly demeanour alongside his exceptional skills.
Dr Raj specialises in advanced facial aesthetics, offering a wide range of treatments and skin procedures. With his extensive training and experience in both medical and aesthetic fields, he brings a unique perspective to delivering exceptional results.
Driven by his passion for patient satisfaction, Dr Raj established the Yorkshire Aesthetic Clinic. Located in a comfortable and welcoming environment, the clinic provides a luxurious and refined setting for patients seeking aesthetic treatments…. Read More
Fill in the details below and download free eBook
Patient Representative
Hi, I’m Sarah Coates. I’m a Senior Change Manager, Hogan accredited coach, proud mum of 2 beautiful boys and am blessed with incredible friends to get into mischief with!
As I headed towards my 40th birthday, my life changed in a way that I could never have imagined and I came off that roller coaster with a new lease of life, with an understanding of the importance of self care and a huge amount of gratitude.
I love to travel, have a passion for interior design and enjoy sharing all that life has to offer with my beautiful family and fabulous friends.
If I’m not at work, you’ll find me playing at the park with my boys, enjoying the sun in Ibiza, listening to music or at the bar with a glass of fizz!
Patient Representative
Patient Representative
I am Senior Manager currently working for a small charity based in Leeds. My role is both professionally stimulating and challenging. No two days are ever the same. It includes aspects of advocacy, client rights, individual representation and inclusivity.
One milestone that resonates deeply is the creation of support groups, safe spaces where clients can openly share their stories. Witnessing the impact of these connections has fuelled my determination to improve the journey of others.
Through my own aesthetic endeavours , I’ve developed an unparalleled understanding of the emotional nuances tied to cosmetic treatments. This empathy allows me to offer sincere reassurance and guidance, especially during moments of vulnerability, in an era of aesthetic care that marries technical expertise with genuine human understanding and a person centred approach.
In my spare time I love the outdoors, enjoying hillwalking, taking part in sport, managing my bountiful allotment, and enhancing my cookery skills trying different cuisines (..no Masterchef yet).. and travel.
Consultant and General Surgeon
Dr. Khan earned her MD from Copenhagen University in 2003 and boasts over 20 years of medical expertise. Her early career was dedicated to dermatology and gynaecology across Yorkshire, and in 2011, she became a qualified GP from The Royal College of General Practitioners in London.
Dr. Khan’s commitment to women’s health is evident through her achievements. In 2012, she earned a Diploma in Sexual and Reproductive Health.
Sales Administrator
Aesthetic Doctor
Expert Practitioner
Excellent 470+ Reviews
on 
Independent Nurse Prescriber
Alana embarked on a career in nursing in 2008, following her comprehensive training and graduation. Since then, she has accrued a wealth of experience working in a variety of roles within both the NHS and private healthcare sectors. Known for her dedication and exceptional skills, Alana rapidly ascended into management, and for the past seven years, has been serving as a matron.
Throughout her career, she has consistently maintained her clinical competencies and academic studies. She initially earned a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, later advancing her studies to become an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Independent Prescriber. Her commitment to continuous professional development led to the completion of her full Master’s degree.
Alana’s passion for skin spurred her to further specialise in this field. In 2017, she pursued training in facial aesthetics, a decision that marked the beginning of a significant new chapter in her career. Since then, she has been affiliated with several leading skin clinics across the UK, where she has honed her expertise and built a reputation for excellence. Her extensive knowledge and experience in skin led her to become an expert medical trainer and since 2021, Alana has been imparting her knowledge at an award-winning training academy. Previously, she held the prestigious position of National Trainer for SKN Clinics, where she educated a variety of medical professionals, including plastic surgeons.
While Alana enjoys all aspects of skin, she has a particular fondness for medical-grade skin care, which she believes offers unparalleled benefits to patients. Her dedication to patient care and her professional knowledge and skills, make her a standout figure in this field. Through her work, Alana has positively impacted numerous lives, helping patients achieve their best skin health and aesthetic goals. In her trainer role, Alana is known for her meticulous approach and her ability to convey complex information in an accessible manner, ensuring that her trainees are well-equipped to deliver high-quality care. Her leadership and mentorship have been crucial in elevating the standards of practice within the industry.
Alana’s career is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in nursing and aesthetics. Her professional journey reflects a blend of clinical expertise, academic achievement, and a genuine passion for improving patient care. As she continues to advance her career, Alana remains dedicated to staying at the forefront of the field, continually enhancing her skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to her patients and to train the next generation of skin care professionals.
Consultant Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon
With over 15 years of experience in the NHS, Mr Nikos Lymperopoulos specialises in reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgery. He graduated from the University of Athens Medical in 2009 and completed his basic surgical training in Liverpool. After earning a PhD with honours in DIEP clinical anatomy research in 2013, he completed advanced surgical training in plastic surgery across Yorkshire and Liverpool, including a cosmetic fellowship in the North West.
Mr Lymperopoulos further honed his expertise with two prestigious breast reconstruction microsurgical fellowships at The Royal Marsden Hospital in Chelsea and Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospitals in London. His extensive experience in breast reconstruction after mastectomy provides a profound understanding of surgical anatomy and aesthetics, benefiting procedures such as breast augmentation, reduction, and uplift. Additionally, he is highly skilled in abdominoplasty, often enhanced with liposuction or muscle repair, especially post-pregnancy.
Specialising in skin cancer treatment, he adeptly handles Basal Cell Carcinoma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. He offers a comprehensive range of breast and body cosmetic surgeries, including breast augmentation with implants or fat transfer, breast reduction, uplift, tummy tucks, and liposuction. Combined procedures, such as “mommy makeovers,” are also available to restore post-pregnancy body contours.
Trained in both surgical and non-surgical facial rejuvenation, Mr Lymperopoulos performs eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), as well as toxin and filler injections. Currently, he serves as a Consultant at Mid Yorkshire Teaching Hospitals, specialising in breast reconstruction and skin cancer surgery, and holds an Honorary Senior Lecturer position at the University of Leeds.
An advocate for education and research, Mr Lymperopoulos has over 20 publications in peer-reviewed journals and a PhD in microsurgical breast reconstruction. As an Education Lead, he developed “The Yorkshire FRCS (Plast) Course” to aid UK trainees in their exit exams. His innovative training simulator was awarded first place in Innovation at the BAPRAS meeting in 2021.
Blepharoplasty, also known as an eye lift, is a surgical procedure performed on the eyelids to improve their appearance. It can address concerns like:
Excess skin on the upper eyelids: This can obstruct vision and create a hooded appearance.
Bags under the lower eyelids: These can make you look tired or aged.
Drooping lower eyelids: This can also obstruct vision and contribute to a tired appearance.
Types of Blepharoplasty:
Upper blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the upper eyelids, removing excess skin and sometimes fat or muscle tissue.
Lower blepharoplasty: This addresses concerns with the lower eyelids, removing excess fat or skin and sometimes repositioning tissues.
Asian blepharoplasty: This addresses specific concerns related to the anatomy of Asian eyelids, creating a more defined crease.
BannerText_Seraphinite Accelerator
