Buttock augmentation is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the size and shape of your rear. It’s becoming increasingly popular for both men and women looking to improve their body contours.
There are a couple of different ways to achieve a fuller, more sculpted backside. The two primary methods are buttock implants and fat transfer, often called a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).
This article will give you a comprehensive overview of buttock augmentation, focusing specifically on buttock implants. We’ll cover what you can expect during the procedure, potential risks, and the recovery process. Also, if you’re interested in getting “buttock implants near me,” we’ll provide tips on how to find qualified surgeons in your area.
Choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon is crucial for a safe and successful outcome, so we’ll emphasize the importance of doing your research and selecting the right professional for your needs.
Types of Buttock Augmentation
If you’re considering buttock augmentation, there are several options to explore. Here’s a rundown of the most common procedures:
Buttock Implants
Buttock implants are solid silicone devices that a surgeon places inside your buttocks to make them bigger and improve their shape. Implants come in different shapes and sizes, so you can customize the results to get the look you want.
Implants are usually placed intramuscularly, meaning they’re tucked inside the buttock muscles. This placement helps create a more natural-looking result.
Dr. Stanton invented and patented the Stanton Anatomic® Buttock Implant, a naturally shaped, soft, semi-solid silicone rubber implant.
Fat Transfer (Brazilian Butt Lift – BBL)
With a fat transfer, also known as a Brazilian Butt Lift or BBL, fat is taken from other areas of your body (like your tummy or thighs) using liposuction. Then, that fat is injected into your buttocks to make them bigger and give them a better shape.
The BBL has a dual benefit: You can reduce fat in areas where you don’t want it and enhance your buttocks.
It’s worth noting that patients tend to retain about 60% to 80% of the fat that’s transferred.
Combination Procedures
Sometimes, a combination of implants and fat transfer can give patients the best results. A skilled surgeon can assess your individual goals and body type to figure out the best approach for you.
What to expect during a buttock implant procedure
If you’re considering getting buttock implants, here’s what you can expect from the process.
Consultation and candidacy
It’s important to have a thorough consultation with a board-certified and qualified plastic surgeon before you move forward with buttock augmentation. You’ll want to discuss your goals, expectations, and medical history with your surgeon.
In general, good candidates for buttock implants are physically and mentally healthy and have reasonable and well-defined aesthetic goals.
During the consultation, the surgeon will determine whether you’re a good candidate for the procedure, discuss what you can expect, and give you an idea of the costs involved, the risks associated with the procedure, and the post-op instructions you’ll need to follow.
Surgical procedure
Buttock implant surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia or IV sedation.
The surgeon will make an incision, often in the intergluteal cleft (aka the butt crack) to minimize visible scarring.
The implant is then placed either intramuscularly (within the muscle), submuscularly (under the muscle), or subfascially (under the fascia, a layer of connective tissue). Intramuscular placement is often preferred for a more natural appearance.
The whole procedure typically takes between two and three hours.
What’s recovery like after buttock implant surgery?
Right after your surgery, you’ll wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and support your tissues. Your surgeon may also insert drains to remove extra fluid.
For the first few weeks, you’ll need to avoid sitting directly on your buttocks. When you’re sitting, use a pillow under your legs to take the pressure off. Sleep on your back or sides. And try to limit how often you climb stairs.
Most people need about one to two weeks to recover from surgery. You can likely go back to work after two or three weeks, though you’ll still need to be careful.
It’s very important to follow all of your surgeon’s instructions to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible outcome.
What are the risks of buttock implants?
Like any surgery, buttock implants come with risks. These include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Scarring
- Implant shifting or rupture
- Capsular contracture (scar tissue forming around the implant)
- Asymmetry
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to minimize these risks. Dr. Stanton, for example, has a complication rate of only 5% and an infection risk of just 0.5%.
Some risks, like infection, can be managed with antibiotics and careful wound care after the surgery.
Butt Implants vs. BBL: Which is right for you?
Butt implants and Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs) both aim to enhance your rear end, but they achieve this in very different ways. With implants, surgeons have precise control over the size and shape, leading to predictable results. BBLs, however, can be less consistent because fat transfer is never a sure thing. In fact, many patients lose a substantial amount of the transferred fat – up to 80% – within the first year.
Because of the uncertainties of fat transfer, many surgeons view butt implants as a more reliable and permanent solution. Implants also eliminate the need for repeat procedures and avoid the risks of fat embolism, death, and asymmetry sometimes associated with BBLs.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual goals, body type, and personal preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best procedure for saggy buttocks?
That really depends on the cause of the sagging and your desired outcome. If it’s primarily due to volume loss, buttock implants or a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) using fat transfer might be recommended. A BBL uses liposuction to harvest fat from other areas of your body and inject it into your buttocks. If you’re dealing with significant skin laxity, a buttock lift (also called a lower body lift) which removes excess skin and tightens the remaining tissue, could be a better option. The best approach is a personalized one, determined in consultation with a qualified surgeon.
What is the average cost of buttock implants?
The cost of buttock implants can vary quite a bit based on several factors, including the surgeon’s experience, the geographic location, the type of implants used, and the complexity of the procedure. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $8,000 to $15,000 or more. This typically includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia fees, operating room costs, and the cost of the implants themselves. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and it’s crucial to get a detailed quote from a board-certified plastic surgeon during your consultation. It’s also important to ask about potential additional costs, such as follow-up appointments, medications, and any possible revision surgeries.
In Summary
If you’re considering buttock augmentation, implants are a dependable, long-lasting option for increasing the size and improving the shape of your rear.
It’s important to do your homework and thoroughly research the procedure. Find a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in performing buttock implant surgery. During your consultation, be sure to discuss what you hope to achieve, the potential risks and benefits, and any concerns you may have.
The best way to find out if buttock implants are right for you is to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. They can assess your anatomy, discuss your goals, and help you understand what’s realistically achievable with surgery.