I've had an embarrassing FUPA since I was 13 y/o. I have very fair skin. Is it possible to remove with minimal or no scarring?

Question

I have carried an embarrassing FUPA like a kangaroo pouch since I was 13. I'm now 30. I've gained weight, lost significant weight, and through every stage, the FUPA remains. It either gets fuller or shrinks, but the skin doesn't retract. I just wish I could get the whole thing sheared off. Is it possible to have this surgically removed with no scarring or at least minimal scarring? It is important given my very fair skin.

Justin Yovino, MD, FACS · Answer

There's likely a satisfying result in your future once you've attended a few consults and chosen the correct plastic surgeon.  This region of the body is commonly treated with the following options: lipo sculpting, skin excision, muscle tightening, and non-invasive skin tightening. You might just need one or you might benefit from all. Hope to see you soon

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Thanks for the question and I know this can be a sensitive and troubling area for both men and woman. My approach is to try and always use liposuction unless I am performing a tummy tuck at the same time unless there is a lot of extra skin. If there is a lot of extra skin and the patient does not want a tummy tuck I do a little mini reverse tummy tuck (pull up not down). I have to say the swelling in this area lasts a while but after a few months patients are incredibly happy!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Recommend that you set up a virtual or in-office consultation with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon to obtain a specific rather than general response to your question.  Providing photos for the virtual consultation would likely allow the surgeon to determine if the pouch is due to fat deposits or skin laxity.  If fat deposits, liposuction would correct the problem; if laxity, a small incision below the bikini line may be required.  Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Thomas S. Taylor, FACS · Answer

Without photos it is hard to give you specific opinions about what is best for you.  However, for sure the treatment will be either liposuction, a tummy tuck (or mini-tummy tuck), or a combination of both.  You will need to make a consultation with a reputable plastic surgeon to get more specific ideas.  The fact that you have light and fair skin is a bonus to you as that skin type generally heals better and faster than other skin types.  I hope this information is helpful to you.Thomas Taylor, MD, FACS

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  Photographs would be very helpful.  If there is excess skin laxity, then a low incision surgical excision would be best rather than liposuction.  This can be designed to have a low and short incision, all below the bikini line.  The most
important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

I've had an embarrassing FUPA since I was 13 y/o. I have very fair skin. Is it possible to remove with minimal or no scarring?

Answers (10)

Answer: Tummy tuck or liposuction?

Answer: Tummy tuck or liposuction?

Answer: Consultation needed

Answer: Consultation needed

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

I've had an embarrassing FUPA since I was 13 y/o. I have very fair skin. Is it possible to remove with minimal or no scarring?

Answers (10)

Answer: Tummy tuck or liposuction?

Answer: Tummy tuck or liposuction?

Answer: Consultation needed

Answer: Consultation needed

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.