What to Know About Scarring in the Pubic Region
Monsplasty is a fairly minor procedure as far as surgeries go, but it does require a carefully placed incision to remove excess fat and tighten skin in the mons pubis area. Because the mons pubis is located directly over the pubic bone and genital region, scar location and healing are uniquely important for both aesthetic and functional reasons. This guide will help you understand what a monsplasty scar looks like, where it’s located, and how to properly care for it so it fades as discreetly as possible.
Where Is the Monsplasty Scar Placed?
The incision for a monsplasty is placed discreetly in the natural upper crease of your mons pubis. It is a horizontal scar and is typically about two to four inches long. The scar will sit below your bikini line, making it easy to hide in most swimsuits and underwear. It often sits low enough to be hidden by the pubic hair. Sometimes monsplasty is performed alongside a tummy tuck. If so, your surgeon may use one incision for both procedures. This will result in a scar that sits just a bit higher and is longer.
What Makes Monsplasty Scars Unique?
The good news is that the mons pubis has fewer tension points compared to the abdomen or thighs. This means less tugging and pulling at the incision site as it heals, leading to faster, flatter scar healing. But the area is prone to moisture, friction from clothing, and increased bacterial exposure, all of which can negatively impact healing. Because of this, monsplasty scars require a stricter and more delicate aftercare regimen to reduce the risk of irritation and infection.
How the Scar Typically Heals Over Time
Your monsplasty incision will heal in about 10 days, but it will take longer than that for the scar it leaves behind to fade. It can take up to a year for scars to fade fully, so remember to be patient. Here is a timeline that can help you know what to expect and when:
- Week 1–2
- Scar may appear raised, red, and slightly swollen
- Patients should avoid tight underwear or moisture buildup
- Week 3–6
- The incision begins to flatten.
- Redness starts to fade
- The scar may feel itchy or firm as collagen remodeling begins
- Those with dark skin tones may notice some hyperpigmentation—this often fades with time when kept out of the sun
- Months 2–6
- Most scars soften and fade significantly by this point, especially in patients who wear loose, breathable clothing and follow proper scar care
- By 12 months
- The majority of patients report a flat, pale line that blends with the natural crease of the mons pubis
How to Care for a Monsplasty Scar
Proper scar care is vital to minimizing your monsplasty scar’s appearance. You will get the flattest and lightest scars when you take care of them in the first 12 months after surgery. Scar care isn’t difficult, but you’ll need to be diligent.
Maintain a Clean, Dry Environment
The pubic region is naturally warm and moist, so post-surgery care must focus on keeping the incision dry. Use non-irritating cleansers when you shower and gently pat your scar dry after showers rather than rubbing. Avoid tight underwear or pants that trap sweat early in healing. This is a perfect time to bust out the SpongeBob lounge pants hiding in your dresser.
Avoid Friction and Pressure
To avoid friction, wear underwear that is seamless, breathable, and loose-fitting for the first few weeks after surgery. Skip high-waisted shapewear and compression garments except for the one given to you by your surgeon, if applicable. You don’t want anything rubbing on your scar.
Scar Care Products
Once cleared by your surgeon (usually two to three weeks post-op), apply silicone gel or silicone sheets made for small, flexible body regions to your scar daily. Sheets are ideal for the mons pubis area because they adhere well to curves and will stay in place under your clothing. Silicone helps keep your scar soft and hydrated while controlling collagen production for a flatter, lighter scar.
Skip Hair Removal Near the Scar (Temporarily)
Avoid shaving or waxing near the incision line until healing is complete, as it can cause irritation, folliculitis, or delayed healing. Your surgeon can advise when it’s safe to resume your normal grooming routines. You will likely need to wait four to six weeks before doing so.
What Affects Final Scar Visibility in Monsplasty Patients?
There are several factors that will affect the visibility of monsplasty scars. Of course, how well you care for your incisions and subsequent scars has an impact, but there are other factors at play as well. It’s important to be aware of all the factors that could influence your scar formation—even the ones beyond your control. The better your understanding, the more realistic your expectations will be. Factors that influence scar visibility include:
- Skin Tone
- Hyperpigmentation is more likely in patients with medium to darker complexions
- Hypopigmentation is more likely in lighter skin
- Fat Volume and Tissue Tension
- More tissue removal can increase tension, which may lead to a slightly more visible line
- Sweat and Friction
- High activity levels or moisture exposure early in recovery can lead to scar thickening or delayed fading
- Genetics
- Some people are naturally more prone to scarring than others
- Skin Thickness
- Thicker skin is more likely to develop thick scars than thinner skin
Long-Term Scar Minimization Options
The hope is that with proper care your scar will flatten and fade within six to 12 months. If for some reason it doesn’t, there are scar treatment options that can help you. If your scar becomes raised or pigmented despite early care, ask your plastic surgeon about:
- Fractional laser resurfacing (after 6–12 months)
- Steroid injections for hypertrophic or keloid scarring
- Medical-grade scar-lightening creams
Most patients don’t need these treatments, but they are available for those who do.
Recap: Monsplasty Scars Are Small, Concealed, and Manageable With the Right Care
Monsplasty scars are typically small, well-hidden, and faster to heal than other body contouring scars. This is especially true when they are properly cared for. With the right aftercare and support from their surgical team, most patients achieve a smooth, barely visible scar and get a procedure that restores both confidence and comfort. It’s too late to ask about scarring after the fact, however, so be sure to schedule a free virtual consultation to get answers to all of your questions about monsplasty scarring.