Buttock Augmentation (Gluteal Augmentation / Brazilian Butt Lift – BBL)
Definition
Buttock augmentation, medically known as gluteal augmentation, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to enhance the volume, contour, and projection of the buttocks.
The surgery can be performed using silicone implants placed under the gluteal muscles or through fat transfer harvested from other parts of the body, commonly referred to as the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).
This operation not only improves the aesthetic appearance of the buttocks but also helps achieve more balanced body proportions and can significantly boost self-confidence.
Indications
Buttock augmentation is suitable in the following cases:
- Flat or small buttocks: Genetic predisposition, aging, or weight loss.
- Disproportionate waist-to-hip ratio: Patients seeking better harmony in body contour.
- Volume loss: Post-pregnancy, aging, or major weight loss leading to deflated buttocks.
- Aesthetic dissatisfaction: Desire for a fuller, lifted, and shapelier buttock appearance.
Ideal candidates are healthy, non-smoking individuals at or near their ideal weight, with realistic expectations.
Preoperative Considerations
- Medical evaluation: Review of general health, history of medical conditions, and medications.
- Surgical planning: Choice of implants vs. fat transfer tailored to patient anatomy and goals.
- Lifestyle adjustments: Smoking cessation at least two weeks before surgery; discontinuation of blood-thinners as per physician guidance.
Surgical Technique
Performed under general anesthesia, buttock augmentation typically takes 2–3 hours.
Techniques include:
-
Silicone Implants:
- Implants are placed under the gluteal muscles via incisions hidden in the gluteal crease.
- Provides immediate and predictable projection and volume. -
Fat Transfer (Brazilian Butt Lift – BBL):
- Fat is harvested via liposuction (abdomen, flanks, thighs), purified, and reinjected into the buttocks.
- Creates a natural contour with the added benefit of body sculpting. - Closure: Incisions are sutured with fine stitches, leaving minimal scarring. A compression garment is applied to reduce swelling and maintain contour.
Postoperative Recovery
- Swelling & bruising: Mild to moderate; usually resolves within a few weeks.
- Sitting restrictions: Avoid direct sitting for 2–3 weeks; use cushions if needed.
- Compression garment: Worn for 4–6 weeks to support contour and reduce edema.
- Activity: Light walking is encouraged; strenuous activity must be avoided for 6 weeks.
- Follow-up care: Regular surgeon visits to monitor recovery and address complications early.
Risks & Complications
- Infection
- Bleeding or hematoma
- Implant displacement (for implant cases)
- Fat embolism (rare but serious, in BBL procedures)
- Asymmetry
- Scarring
An experienced surgeon and strict adherence to postoperative instructions reduce these risks.
Outcomes
- Immediate enhancement of buttock volume and projection.
- Improved body proportions and waist-to-hip balance.
- Long-term or permanent results with implants or stabilized fat transfer.
- Higher self-confidence and satisfaction with body image.
In BBL cases, some fat may naturally resorb. Final results typically stabilize within a few months. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle ensures long-lasting outcomes.
