Our Summary

This research investigates a surgical procedure called monsplasty, which is performed to reduce the size and improve the appearance of the mons pubis area (the fatty tissue located over the pubic bone). There isn’t much existing research on this procedure, and the information that does exist often lacks detail about the outcomes following surgery.

In this study, the researchers analyzed a specific surgical technique used in monsplasty and evaluated its success by looking at the patient’s body image, psychological well-being, sexual function, urinary function, ability to maintain cleanliness in the pubic area, and any post-operative complications.

They studied 25 patients who had sagging of the mons pubis (grade 2 or higher) for 3 months. The results showed significant improvements in body image, satisfaction with the abdomen appearance, and sexual functioning. There were also improvements in the visibility of the genitalia, cleanliness of the pubic area, sexual life, sensitivity of the genitals, and urinary continence. The patients were highly satisfied, and there were no major complications.

The researchers also looked back at data from 80 patients who had the surgery between 2010 and 2021. Again, there were no major complications found.

The conclusion is that monsplasty is a quick, straightforward surgery that significantly improves patient satisfaction and functionality. It can be included as part of both cosmetic and reconstructive tummy tuck surgeries and should be a standard part of the procedure for patients with moderate to severe sagging of the mons pubis.

FAQs

  1. What is monsplasty and what does it aim to improve?
  2. What were the results of the study on patients who underwent monsplasty?
  3. Can monsplasty be included as a part of tummy tuck surgeries?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about a tummy tuck is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon. This may include maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, avoiding smoking, and following a proper exercise routine. It is also important to attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and to address any concerns that may arise. By following these guidelines, patients can help ensure a successful outcome and optimal results from their tummy tuck procedure.

Suitable For

Typically, patients who are recommended for a tummy tuck, including monsplasty, are those who have excess skin and fat in the abdominal area that does not respond to diet and exercise. This includes patients who have lost a significant amount of weight, women who have had multiple pregnancies, or individuals with genetic predisposition to store fat in the abdominal area. Patients may also seek a tummy tuck to address issues such as diastasis recti (separation of the abdominal muscles) or to improve their body contour and self-confidence.

Timeline

Overall, the timeline of a patient’s experience before and after tummy tuck surgery would typically involve:

Before surgery:

  1. Initial consultation with a plastic surgeon to discuss goals, expectations, and medical history.
  2. Pre-operative evaluations, including physical exams, blood work, and possibly imaging tests.
  3. Discussion of the surgical technique, potential risks, and recovery process.
  4. Preparation for the surgery, including quitting smoking, adjusting medications, and arranging for post-operative care.

After surgery:

  1. Recovery period, which may involve pain, swelling, bruising, and restricted activities.
  2. Follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  3. Gradual return to normal activities, with restrictions on strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
  4. Continued monitoring of the surgical site for any signs of infection or complications.
  5. Long-term results, with improvements in abdominal contour, skin tightness, and overall body image.

Overall, the tummy tuck surgery can lead to a significant improvement in a patient’s physical appearance, self-confidence, and quality of life. It is important for patients to carefully follow their surgeon’s recommendations for pre-operative preparation and post-operative care to ensure the best possible outcomes.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What specific technique will be used during the monsplasty procedure?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with monsplasty?
  3. What is the expected recovery time after monsplasty surgery?
  4. How long will the results of the monsplasty procedure last?
  5. Will there be any scarring after the monsplasty surgery, and if so, how noticeable will it be?
  6. How soon after the surgery can I resume normal activities, including exercise?
  7. How many monsplasty surgeries have you performed, and what is your success rate?
  8. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions after the monsplasty surgery?
  9. How much improvement can I expect in terms of body image, sexual function, and other factors following monsplasty surgery?
  10. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could achieve similar results to monsplasty?

Reference

Authors: Hamdi M, Waked K, Deleuze J, Giunta G, De Baerdemaeker R, De Brucker B, Zeltzer A. Journal: J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg. 2023 Sep;84:287-294. doi: 10.1016/j.bjps.2023.06.007. Epub 2023 Jun 9. PMID: 37385140