Both a FUPA and an apron belly affect the contours in the lower body, causing discomfort and aesthetic distortion for patients. In this blog, Dr. Remus Repta, creator of the transformative Plus Size Tummy Tuck®, explores the differences between these two common cosmetic concerns and how they can both be addressed through cutting-edge procedures that enhance confidence and quality of life.
What Is the Difference Between a FUPA and an Apron Belly?
A FUPA (Fat Upper Pubic Area) is a pouch of localized fat above the pubic bone that creates a distressing bulge many patients find frustrating. An apron belly (pannus) is a large, drooping expanse of skin and fat that hangs down from the lower belly, obscuring the genital region and sometimes even making contact with the upper thighs. Where a FUPA is composed mainly of fat, an apron belly contains both fat and skin and tends to be larger.
What Are the Symptoms of a FUPA and an Apron Belly?
Both a FUPA and an apron belly can cause a variety of issues for patients, including the following:
- Discomfort
- Chafing
- Rashes
- Sweating
- Infection
- Irritation
- Poor hygiene
- Loss of mobility
- Self-consciousness
- Poor aesthetic appearance
- Difficulty achieving a good fit in clothing and swimwear
What Causes a FUPA and Apron Belly?
A FUPA has a variety of causes, including weight fluctuations, genetics, pregnancy, and aging. Hormonal shifts and poor posture may also play a role in the formation of fat in the upper pubic region. Lastly, previous abdominal surgeries such as C-sections often result in unwanted fat accumulation in the upper pubic area.
An apron belly is often caused by shedding a significant number of pounds very quickly, which leaves behind loose, drooping skin. Other causes include pregnancy, loss of skin elasticity with aging, genetics, and C-sections.
How Can a FUPA or an Apron Belly Be Treated?
With a FUPA and apron belly, there is little that can be done non-surgically, and an invasive procedure is usually the answer to sculpting the region and restoring the patient’s appearance, comfort, and peace of mind. The most common procedures recommended are as follows:
- Plus Size Tummy Tuck® – The Plus Size Tummy Tuck® is a dramatic body sculpting procedure to contour the abdomen and restore a more youthful-looking, balanced figure. It can rejuvenate the belly muscles, trim sagging skin, and reposition the navel in a more desirable location. The surgery can treat both an apron belly and a FUPA with excellent results.
- Panniculectomy – A panniculectomy targets loose, hanging skin that cascades over the groin, causing chafing, irritation, rashes, and poor hygiene. It is an ideal solution for combating an apron belly and restoring patient comfort and well-being. Unlike a tummy tuck, however, the surgery does not flatten the abdomen, rejuvenate the appearance of the navel, or firm weakened or separated stomach muscles.
What Is the Takeaway?
A FUPA and an apron belly are two concerning aesthetic issues that can interfere with comfort, mobility, confidence, and quality of life. While a FUPA is made of mostly fat and appears as a bulge above the pubic bone, an apron belly is composed of skin and fat that hangs down over the groin, covering up the genitalia. Causes for both conditions include genetics, weight fluctuations, hormonal shifts, aging, pregnancy, and surgeries like C-sections.
Two commonly recommended surgeries to address these cosmetic problems include a Plus Size Tummy Tuck® and a panniculectomy. The best way to determine which option is best is to book a private consultation with your plastic surgeon, who will perform a detailed medical and physical assessment to determine the right approach for meeting your goals.
Struggling With a FUPA or Apron Belly and Seeking Relief? Contact Dr. Remus Repta Today to Book Your Private Consultation!
Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Repta is a sought-after body contouring expert who co-authored the internationally referenced, comprehensive textbook, "Atlas of Abdominoplasty." He has extensive expertise in restoring a balanced, attractive physique and can create a customized treatment plan that addresses your unique cosmetic concerns. Call 855-377-3782 today to book an introductory appointment and discover the right solution for your FUPA or apron belly.
