FUPA, which stands for Fat Upper Pubic Area, is a common concern for many people trying to lose weight. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about whether FUPA will go away with weight loss:
What is FUPA?
FUPA refers to excess fat that accumulates around the pubic area. It is sometimes also called a pannus. FUPA typically occurs due to weight gain and excess abdominal fat. The FUPA area consists of stubborn fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. Both men and women can develop FUPA.
What causes FUPA?
There are several potential causes of FUPA:
- Weight gain – Gaining excess weight, especially abdominal/visceral fat, can cause FUPA to develop.
- Pregnancy – Pregnancy can contribute to FUPA due to weight gain and stretched skin in the pubic region.
- Genetics – Some individuals are predisposed to store fat deposits in the pubic area.
- Lifestyle habits – Lack of exercise and a poor diet high in processed/sugary foods increase FUPA risk.
- Aging and hormonal changes – Declining estrogen and testosterone levels contribute to fat accumulation.
Can you lose FUPA without surgery?
It is possible to lose FUPA without surgery through diet and exercise. However, results vary significantly between individuals based on factors like:
- Severity of the FUPA
- Overall weight loss achieved
- Genetics and body type
- Age
- Skin elasticity
For mild-moderate FUPA, substantial weight loss of 15-20% of body weight can help reduce the pubic fat pad. Losing weight gradually through healthy eating and active lifestyle is key. Extreme dieting rarely works long-term. Building muscle tone in the area through targeted exercises can also help.
However, if FUPA is severe, diet and exercise alone may not completely resolve it. Plastic surgery is sometimes required to fully eliminate excess, sagging skin and tissue in the pubic region.
What exercises help reduce FUPA?
Certain targeted exercises can strengthen and tone the muscles underlying the FUPA region. Here are some of the most effective FUPA exercises:
Pelvic Tilts
Lie down with knees bent and feet flat. Tighten abdominal muscles and tilt pelvis up and back down. Repeat 10-15 times.
Lower Ab Leg Raises
Lie down and raise legs up to a 45 degree angle. Slowly lower legs back down, keeping abs contracted. Repeat 10-12 times.
Classic Crunches
With knees bent and feet flat, lift shoulder blades off the floor using abdominal muscles. Repeat 10-12 times.
Bicycle Crunches
Lying down with hands behind head, bring knees in toward chest alternating sides in a pedaling motion. Repeat 10-15 times per side.
Planks
Hold an extended push-up position, resting on forearms. Keep back straight and hold for 30-60 seconds.
Be patient and consistent with these exercises for best results. Any activity that engages the core and strengthens the abdominals can help tone the pubic area.
What lifestyle habits reduce FUPA?
Certain lifestyle changes can also help minimize and manage FUPA:
- Healthy diet – Eat a balanced diet low in processed foods.
- Portion control – Reduce overall caloric intake to promote fat loss.
- Regular exercise – Along with specific FUPA exercises, cardio and strength training 4-5 times per week.
- Reduce stress – High cortisol contributes to abdominal fat.
- Minimize alcohol – Decreases bloating and abdominal fat.
- Quit smoking – Smoking causes fat accumulation in the abdomen.
- Improve posture – Straight posture lessens FUPA appearance.
Developing healthy, sustainable habits around diet and exercise is key for long-term FUPA improvement.
How much weight loss is needed to lose FUPA?
There is no definitive amount of weight loss that will eliminate FUPA. However, as a general guide:
- Losing 5-10% of body weight may reduce FUPA appearance slightly.
- 10-15% weight loss may noticeably improve FUPA sagging and size.
- Over 15-20% weight loss gives the best chance of significant FUPA reduction.
Keep in mind, FUPA is a very stubborn, resistant fat area. Weight loss for some may not make it disappear completely. Patience and consistency is key.
Does FUPA go away after pregnancy?
FUPA caused by pregnancy may reduce with time after giving birth. However, results vary widely. Here are general expectations:
- If FUPA is mild, it may resolve within 3-12 months postpartum through diet, exercise, and allowing time for skin to retract.
- Moderate FUPA often reduces partially but persists to some degree without intervention.
- Severe pregnancy FUPA is unlikely to fully resolve without procedures like a tummy tuck.
Age, genetics, number of pregnancies, overall postpartum weight loss, and abdominal muscle tone all affect post-pregnancy FUPA.
Should I get FUPA surgery?
For severe, persistent FUPA that does not respond sufficiently to diet and exercise, surgical options may be appropriate. Common FUPA surgeries include:
Pubic Lift
Excises excess skin and fat, tightens muscles and soft tissue. Minimal scarring.
Tummy Tuck
Removes abdominal fat and skin, repairs separated muscles. Leaves hip-to-hip scar.
Liposuction
Suctions out fat deposits from the mons pubis and surrounding area.
The best candidates have maintained a stable weight prior to surgery. Risks include bleeding, scarring, infection. Recovery takes 2-6 weeks with restricted activity.
Discuss goals, expectations, risks, and results with a board certified plastic surgeon.
Home remedies to get rid of FUPA
Natural and home remedies cannot eliminate severe FUPA on their own. However, they may be able to help reduce the appearance mildly when combined with diet and exercise. Options include:
Massage
Gently massage the mons pubis daily using upward strokes. Helps improve blood flow and lymphatic drainage.
Dry Brushing
Using a dry brush, brush the FUPA area in an upward, circular motion to exfoliate and improve blood flow.
Cold Therapy
Apply an ice pack wrapped in cloth to the mons pubis for 10-15 minutes. The cold can help break down fat cells.
Coconut Oil
Natural coconut oil contains fatty acids that may help break down subcutaneous fat over time.
Consistency is key with these home remedies for any potential mild improvements.
FUPA Before and After Pictures
Here are some before and after pictures of FUPA reduction through weight loss and surgical procedures:
| Before | After Weight Loss | After Surgery |
|---|---|---|
Conclusion
In summary, FUPA reduction is possible for many through significant weight loss, but results vary. Consistently eating healthy, exercising, and developing muscle tone in the area can help, along with patience. Severe, unresponsive FUPA may require plastic surgery to fully resolve. Consult a doctor to discuss the options.