What is buttock augmentation?
Butt augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that aims to improve the volume, shape and overall contour of the buttocks. This procedure can be performed using a variety of techniques, including autologous fat grafting (also known as BBL or Brazilian butt lift) and silicone implants, or a combination of both. With the increasing popularity of butt augmentation, the number of doctors performing this procedure has also increased significantly. It is important to know that the surgery is technically complicated and requires specialized training to perform safely. A qualified plastic surgeon should have a comprehensive understanding of the anatomical structures of the buttock region to ensure optimal results and patient safety.
Who is a good candidate for this surgery?
- Physically healthy people with realistic expectations
- Dissatisfaction with the shape of the buttocks, especially if it is perceived as asymmetrical, flat or lacking volume
- Stable and healthy weight without excessive skin laxity
- Consider a butt lift and/or correction if the skin is too loose
Butt implants
Silicone implants can be placed either underneath the fascia in the subfascial plane or intramuscularly in the gluteal muscle. Subfascial placement eliminates the need for muscle dissection, reducing the risk of injury to the sciatic nerve. However, this method may result in a more visible implant contour due to the shallower depth of the subfascial plane compared to the intramuscular plane. The intramuscular plane offers the advantage of a natural contour created by the thick muscular sheath of the gluteus maximus muscle over the silicone implant. However, this method requires splitting the gluteus muscle, which prolongs recovery and increases the risk of permanently damaging the nerves that supply the muscle. Nerve injury can lead to paralysis and atrophy of the gluteus maximus muscle, resulting in asymmetry and dysfunction.
Shape
Silicone implants are available in round or oval shapes and in a variety of sizes, with the ideal size and shape depending on factors such as pelvic size, body size and desired degree of augmentation. We will discuss all options and create a customized surgical plan tailored to your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Brazilian butt lift (BBL)
Liposuction targets areas to improve body contour, often harvesting fat from multiple regions such as the flanks, abdomen and back. Purified fat and stem cells are injected into the subcutaneous layer (under the skin but over the muscle) of the buttocks, with around 50-75% of the injected fat being retained. Some patients opt for multiple Brazilian Butt Lift procedures to further increase the volume.
What is the recovery like after buttock augmentation?
Recovery after buttock augmentation requires treatment of moderate to severe pain with over-the-counter and prescription medications and strict adherence to post-operative instructions. This usually includes wearing compression garments. It is recommended that you do not sit directly on your buttocks for at least 2 weeks after gluteal implant surgery and 8 weeks after BBL surgery. However, I will show you how to sit on a chair with a cushion from the first day after the operation to reduce the pressure on the buttocks. Strenuous activities should be avoided for at least 4 weeks. You can usually return to work 2-3 weeks after the operation. The result is usually stable about 3 months after the procedure. Compliance with the aftercare recommendations is important to minimize the risk of complications and achieve an optimal result.
If you would like to learn more about butt augmentation, please feel free to contact me for more information and personal advice!