What are buttock enhancement surgeries?

Buttock augmentation

Buttock augmentation, or gluteal augmentation, is used to improve the contour, size and/or shape of the buttocks. This is done through the use of buttock implants, fat grafting or sometimes a combination of the two.

Buttock implants are silicone-filled devices that are surgically placed deep within the tissues of the buttock. Buttock augmentation through the use of fat grafting involves the transfer of fat from one area of the body into the tissues of the buttocks. This technique is sometimes referred to as a Brazilian butt lift.

What buttock augmentation surgery can do

  • Increase fullness, roundness and projection of your butt or buttocks
  • Improve the balance of your figure
  • Enhance your self-image and self-confidence

In addition to buttock augmentation procedures, a buttock lift can be accomplished by the surgical removal of soft tissue.

Buttock lift

A buttock lift, or gluteal lift, improves the shape and tone of the underlying tissue that supports skin and fat in the buttock area.

Aging, sun damage, pregnancy, significant fluctuations in weight and genetic factors may contribute to poor tissue elasticity that can result in sagging of the buttocks.

In order to achieve a smoother and more pleasing contour, excess sagging skin and fat are removed. A traditional gluteal lift will not make a butt larger, but may improve a dimpled, irregular skin surface. This procedure may be included in a body lift or may be performed separately.

What a buttock lift can’t do

Buttock lifts are not intended strictly for the removal of excess fat nor are they intended to add volume to the buttocks. Fat grafting, buttock implants or auto-augmentation (when some of your own tissue is left underneath the skin) can be used to add volume. Liposuction is sometimes added for better contouring.

Who is a good candidate for buttock augmentation?

You may be a good candidate for buttock augmentation if:

  • You are physically healthy
  • You have realistic expectations
  • You are bothered by the feeling that your butt is too small
  • You are unhappy with the roundness or general shape of your butt
  • Your butt is asymmetrical

Who is a good candidate for a buttock lift?

In general, buttock lift candidates include:

  • Individuals with significant soft tissue looseness in the gluteal area
  • Healthy individuals without medical conditions that impair healing or increase risk of surgery
  • Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic goals for what gluteal lift surgery can accomplish
  • Nonsmokers
  • Individuals committed to leading a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and fitness

What should I expect during my buttock enhancement recovery?

After your buttock enhancement procedure, dressings/bandages will be applied to the incisions. Small, thin tubes may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect. You will be taken into a recovery area to be closely monitored, and may be permitted to go home after a few hours.

You will be instructed to wear a support garment around-the-clock following your surgery. Your surgeon will tell you how long you need to wear the garment and if there are any other garments that you may have to wear during your recovery.

You will be given specific instructions that may include:

  • How to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery
  • Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing
  • Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
  • How to care for your drains
  • When to follow up with your plastic surgeon

Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon specific questions about what you can expect during your individual recovery period:

  • Where will I be taken after my surgery is complete?
  • What medication will I be given or prescribed after surgery?
  • Will I have dressings/bandages after surgery? When will they be removed?
  • When can I bathe after surgery and how may I bathe?
  • Are stitches removed? When?
  • When will the drains be removed?
  • When can I resume normal activity, driving and exercise?
  • When do I return for follow-up care?

Buttock augmentation with fat grafting

You will be asked to avoid prolonged sitting for about two weeks (some surgeons prefer longer). This is very important because prolonged sitting will damage the fat.

You will also be encouraged to sleep face down or on your side. When you do have to sit, you will have to use a pillow or cushion placed behind the legs (hamstring muscles) to help raise the buttocks, avoiding pressure onto the fat grafts.

Your surgeon may encourage you to seek a lymphatic massage from a licensed massage therapist. You can generally resume exercise after six to eight weeks.

Buttock enhancement recovery at home

If you experience shortness of breath, chest pains or unusual heart beats, seek medical attention immediately. Should any of these complications occur, you may require hospitalization and additional treatment.

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