Butt Augmentation

Overview

What is butt augmentation?

Time can be unkind to the body, especially the buttocks – the only body part we sit on. Furthermore, many people just don’t have the round shapely butt they want because of genetics, fluctuations in weight, pregnancy, or poor tissue elasticity. Either way, those who wish to sport rounder, fuller buttocks may want to consider butt augmentation surgery with implants. Gluteal augmentation, also known as “buttock augmentation” may be done in several ways:

• Gluteal fat grafting (Brazilian Butt Lifts) – where fat is removed from one part of the body and implanted into the buttocks (see fat injections).
• Gluteoplasty (buttocks lift) – where excess skin and fat are removed from the buttocks, and the remaining tissue is adjusted and contoured
• Filler injections – filler  (such as Sculptra) are injected into the buttocks area to provide temporary fullness
• Buttocks implants – silicone prostheses are surgically placed into the buttocks

Cost of butt augmentation

In this article, we’ll discuss buttock augmentation with implants as a way of increasing the size and improving the shape of the buttocks through surgery.

Used in a similar manner as implants during breast augmentation to increase the size of the chest, artificial butt implants are inserted into the buttocks for an improvement in size, shape, and contour.

The procedure may be done on its own, or with other buttocks enhancement procedures, such as gluteal fat grafting (Brazilian Butt Lift), filler injections, or a gluteoplasty (butt lift).

Are you a candidate?

The ideal candidate for buttocks augmentation using an implant is of healthy weight (BMI 30 or less), in good general health, and has enough soft tissue (skin and underlying fat and muscle) to accommodate an implant.  Surgeons look for the following concerns with the buttocks that can be corrected or improved by this surgery:

• Lack of volume
• Lack of projection
• Asymmetry between the buttocks
• Contour irregularities or deformities
• Limited fat for transfer

The following problems are concerns that may make individuals poor candidates for buttocks augmentation:

• BMI greater than 30
• Prior buttocks injections
• Autoimmune disease (such as lupus or vasculitis)
• Prior history of radiation treatments to the buttocks area

The following are contraindications to this surgery:

• Local infection
• Diabetes
• Psychological problems
• Inadequate soft tissue to accommodate an implant
• Unrealistic expectations from the surgery

How is the procedure done?

There are two basic approaches to implant placement:

1. Intramuscular – the implant is placed in a pocket formed within the gluteal muscles
2. Subfascial – the implant is placed between the muscle and the skin, just under the thin layer of connective tissue that covers the muscles (the fascia).

There are advantages and disadvantages to both approaches. Your surgeon will discuss these options with you, and the choice depends on your anatomy, your preferences, and your goals for the surgery.

Butt augmentation uses solid implants made of silicone elastomer, a strong artificial material.  Implants placed in the buttocks tend to be denser than those used for breast augmentation as they must be able to withstand the pressure of sitting. They are closer to a solid than to a liquid, and provide a feeling similar to that of well-toned muscle.

The following provides an overview of what occurs in a typical butt augmentation procedure using implants:

1. Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under general anesthesia to ensure that you are completely asleep and pain-free during the surgery.
2. Incision Placement: The surgeon makes incisions in the buttock area. The incisions are usually placed in the gluteal crease (the natural fold where the buttocks meet the thighs) or in the intergluteal cleft (the vertical groove between the buttocks).
3. Pocket Creation: The surgeon creates pockets in the buttock tissue, either within or beneath the gluteal muscles. The placement of the implants depends on factors such as the patient’s anatomy, desired outcome, and the surgeon’s preference.
4. Implant Insertion: Silicone butt implants, which are solid and made of a soft, cohesive gel, are commonly used for butt augmentation. The surgeon carefully inserts the implants into the pockets they have created.
5. Implant Positioning: Next, the surgeon positions the implants to achieve the desired shape and projection. They ensure that the implants are symmetrically placed to create a balanced appearance.
6. Incision Closure: The incisions are closed using sutures or surgical adhesive. The surgeon takes care to minimize scarring and ensure a smooth and even closure.
7. Recovery: Post-surgery, you’ll be taken to a recovery area to wake up from anesthesia. It’s common to wear compression garments during this phase to reduce swelling and aid the healing process.

Keep in mind that the specific techniques in butt implant surgery may differ based on the plastic surgeon’s choices and the specific requirements of the patient.

Recovery time

To reduce the risk of complications, patients are usually advised to avoid sitting or sleeping on their back for three weeks. Although remaining in the prone position immediately after the surgery is advised, getting up walking as soon as possible is encouraged. Exercise should not be attempted for eight weeks.

It is normal to experience some soreness, pain, redness, swelling, and bruising after the procedure. Some individuals may require a small drainage tube to be left in until swelling abates. Some surgeons may ask you to wear an elastic compression garment to limit swelling and help the tissues heal in their new contours.

Your surgeon may suggest that you sit on a soft cushion to protect the implant area until it has healed. While most patients return to work in about a week, those whose jobs include strenuous activities or long periods of sitting may need more time to recover.

When will you see final results?

After the swelling subsides and your butt implants  settle under the muscle, patients will begin to see final results in three  to six months after surgery.

How long will your results last?

Butt implants need to be replaced around every 10 years for patients who experience a regular amount of implant wear and tear.