Buttock Augmentation or Re-shaping

What is Buttock Augmentation?

Patients typically undergo buttock surgery to improve the contour, size or shape of under-developed buttocks; to correct sagging skin in the gluteal area caused by weight-loss or ageing; and to repair malformations. The most common surgical techniques to shape and tone the buttocks are fat grafting and silicone implants.

Are there different options available to enhance this area?

Yes, there are two basic techniques to enhance the buttocks:

1. augmentation with fat grafting (lipofilling)
2. augmentation with buttock implants.

Who is the ideal candidate for buttock augmentation with fat grafting?

Buttock augmentation fat transfer is a surgical procedure for patients with an adequate supply of fat to transfer. The most significant advantage with this technique is that it uses the patient’s fat deposits harvested from other areas of the body. However, it is difficult to predict how much fat survives the grafting process.

Who is an ideal candidate for buttock augmentation with gluteal implants?

Buttock implant surgery involves making a small vertical incision in the area disguised between the buttocks. A silicone gel-filled implant is inserted either under the fascia and above the gluteus maximus muscle (using the La Pena technique) or deep within the muscle (using the Gonzales technique).

The main advantages are the predictability of results and the natural, smooth appearance that the latest generation of buttock implants can offer. The only drawback (according to some patients) is that this method requires the use of silicone implants. An epidural is typically used in buttock implant surgery, allowing the patient to remain conscious throughout the procedure.

The recovery period is relatively comfortable, provided that the patient follows the surgeon’s post-operative advice, and they avoid placing direct pressure on the treatment area and strenuous activities for at least 15 days after the surgery.

What are the risks for Buttock Augmentation?

Buttock augmentation surgery is a reasonably straightforward procedure, carried out by inserting a silicone-filled implant into each buttock.

Nowadays, the risks associated with this procedure are limited to rare infections or fluid collection around the implants. Following surgery, the patient may experience moderate discomfort around the treatment area; aggravated by the semi-sitting position that they should maintain for most of the day.

The most common complication occurs in slim patients as the implants are sometimes visible due to the lack of supporting tissue. Buttock implants may also be visible after surgery in patients with significant sagging of the buttocks or those who desire a dramatic increase in size.

Buttock augmentation surgery may be carried out without implants using fat harvested from another part of the body to enhance this area.

What are the steps for buttock enhancement with gluteal implants?

The surgeon makes a small incision at the crease between the buttocks and inserts a silicone implant into each cheek. Modern techniques recommend placement of the implant deep in the gluteus maximus muscle to achieve the most natural-looking results.

The support provided by the implants and a shorter recovery period are the main advantages of buttock implants. During the consultation, it is essential to discuss the procedure steps and the outcome of surgery carefully with the surgeon.

What about the scars following Buttock Augmentation?

Residual scarring is barely noticeable as it remains hidden between the buttocks. The results are visible immediately following treatment.

Complications

Complications are uncommon, provided that surgery is carried out on patients with good general health, and in accredited facilities with qualified medical staff. However, there are associated risks and complications with all surgery.

Potential complications include skin necrosis, fat necrosis, nerve damage, asymmetry, skin rippling and localised fluid retention and tissue swelling.