More and more people are seeking ways to enhance their body shape, and buttock augmentation procedures are becoming increasingly popular. If you’re researching options to achieve fuller, more sculpted buttocks, you’re definitely not alone.
This article aims to provide you with a complete overview of buttock augmentation, including the pros and cons of buttock implants versus fat transfer (often called a Brazilian Butt Lift, or BBL). We’ll also provide guidance on how to find qualified surgeons in your area, or even search for “buttocks implants near me.”
Before making any decisions, it’s essential to fully understand the procedures involved, what the recovery process looks like, and the potential risks. We’ll cover all of that, so you can make an informed choice about what’s right for you.
Understanding Buttock Augmentation
Buttock augmentation, sometimes called gluteoplasty, is a type of cosmetic surgery that’s designed to enhance the size and shape of your rear end. The goal is to improve your overall body proportions and, perhaps, boost your self-confidence.
This type of surgery is more common among women, although more and more men are becoming interested in it.
Who is a good candidate?
The best candidates for buttock augmentation are people who:
- Have realistic expectations
- Are at a stable weight
- Want to improve the way their buttocks look
It’s also important that you are in good health, don’t smoke, and understand the risks and complications that can come with any surgery.
Buttock Augmentation Techniques: Implants vs. Fat Transfer
If you’re looking to enhance the size and shape of your rear end, you basically have two options: buttock implants or fat transfer, also known as a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL). Here’s a rundown of each technique:
Buttock Implants
A buttock implant procedure involves a surgeon placing silicone implants either inside or above the gluteal muscle to boost volume and improve shape. There are a few options for implant placement:
- Intramuscular: inside the muscle
- Submuscular: beneath the muscle
- Subfascial: above the muscle fascia
The surgeon will also need to make an incision, and there are a few common spots for that, too:
- Gluteal crease
- Tailbone area
- Between the buttocks (intergluteal cleft)
- Sides near the buttock creases
Implants are typically made of soft, semi-solid silicone rubber. One option to consider is the Stanton Anatomic® Buttock Implant, which is FDA-approved and designed to look natural.
Fat Transfer (Brazilian Butt Lift – BBL)
A BBL is a two-step procedure. First, fat is removed from other areas of your body (like your abdomen or thighs) using liposuction. Then, that fat is purified and injected into your buttocks.
So, a BBL not only augments your backside, but it also contours the areas where the fat was taken from. Keep in mind that the results of a fat transfer can be a little less predictable than implants because your body might absorb some of the fat. Patients tend to retain somewhere between 60% and 80% of the transferred fat.
Implants vs. BBL
Implants generally offer more permanent results compared to a BBL, where some fat loss is expected. For this reason, BBLs tend to have a higher revision rate than implants.
The surgical procedure: What to expect
If you’re considering buttock augmentation, you probably want to know what’s involved.
Pre-operative consultation
First, you’ll want to find a qualified plastic surgeon and schedule a thorough consultation. The surgeon will examine your anatomy and then talk with you about your goals for the procedure. They’ll then recommend the technique that will likely work best for you.
Your surgeon will also explain the risks, benefits, and other options you might want to consider.
Anesthesia and procedure details
Buttock augmentation is usually done under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation to keep you comfortable.
If you and your surgeon decide on implants, they’ll make an incision, create a pocket for the implant, insert the implant, and then close the incision.
If you’re having a fat transfer, the surgeon will perform liposuction to harvest fat, purify the fat, and then inject it into your buttocks to create the shape you’re looking for.
Buttock implant surgery usually takes from one to one and a half hours.
Recovery and post-operative care
Recovery from a surgical procedure takes time. Here’s what you can expect after getting buttock implants or a fat transfer.
Right after surgery
You’ll need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to help minimize swelling and support the tissues as they heal. You’ll need to be careful to avoid putting direct pressure on your buttocks for several weeks. That means sleeping on your side or stomach.
Recovery timeline
The first couple of weeks after surgery are the hardest. You’ll likely have swelling, tightness, and discomfort.
Here’s when you can expect to return to normal activities after each type of procedure:
- Buttock implants: You can probably go back to work in 2 to 3 weeks, and you can start exercising again in 8 to 10 weeks.
- Fat transfer: You can probably go back to work in 10 to 14 days, and you can start exercising again in about 8 weeks.
For at least two weeks, you’ll need to avoid climbing stairs and sitting directly on your buttocks.
Follow-up appointments
It’s important to attend all your scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon so they can monitor your healing and address any concerns you have.
What are the risks of buttock augmentation?
Like all surgical procedures, buttock augmentation carries some risks. These include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Hematoma (blood collecting under the skin)
- Seroma (fluid collecting under the skin)
- Implant migration (movement)
- Capsular contracture (scar tissue forming around an implant)
- Nerve damage
- Asymmetry (unevenness)
- Skin irregularities
- Fat embolism (with fat transfer procedures)
- Risks associated with liposuction (with fat transfer procedures)
- Cellulite or stretch marks
Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon is the best way to minimize these risks. I’m happy to report that Dr. Stanton’s patients experience a low complication rate, with only about 5% experiencing any issues. The risk of infection is even lower, at just 0.5%.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are buttock implants worth it?
Whether buttock implants are “worth it” is a deeply personal decision. It depends on your individual goals, expectations, and tolerance for risk. If you desire a significant, permanent increase in buttock volume and are aware of the potential complications, then implants may be a good option. Carefully consider the pros and cons, and have realistic expectations.
What is the best procedure for saggy buttocks?
The best procedure for saggy buttocks depends on the degree of sagging and your desired outcome. A buttock lift (also called a lower body lift) removes excess skin and fat to tighten and reshape the area. Buttock implants can add volume and projection, while a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) uses fat transfer to enhance the buttocks.
What is the average cost of buttock implants?
The average cost of buttock implants can vary significantly depending on the surgeon’s experience, geographic location, the type of implants used, and anesthesia fees. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $8,000 to $15,000 or more. This typically includes the surgeon’s fee, anesthesia, operating room costs, and the implants themselves.
Does insurance cover buttock implants?
Typically, insurance does not cover buttock implants, as they are considered a cosmetic procedure. However, if the procedure is medically necessary due to trauma or reconstruction after a medical condition, there’s a slight chance your insurance may provide some coverage. It’s best to check with your insurance provider for clarification on your specific policy.
In Closing
If you’re considering buttock augmentation, it’s essential to do your homework. Find a board-certified plastic surgeon who has plenty of experience performing these types of procedures. Look closely at their before-and-after photos to see if you like their aesthetic.
Schedule consultations with several surgeons to discuss your goals, ask questions, and get a sense of their approach. It’s crucial to have realistic expectations and to fully understand the potential risks and benefits involved.
Remember, buttock implants and fat transfer offer different results and involve different recovery periods. Understanding the key differences will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and preferences, bringing you closer to achieving your desired silhouette.