Buttocks Aesthetics (Gluteoplasty)

What is Buttocks Aesthetics (Gluteoplasty)?

Buttocks aesthetic operations, medically known as gluteoplasties, are surgical procedures designed to create fuller, more lifted, and well-proportioned bottoms. The specific surgical method used varies from case to case, depending on the patient's anatomy and desired outcome. These procedures can be categorized into three basic goals:

• Augmentation and Shaping: Increasing volume and improving the overall shape.
• Lifting: Correcting sagging and creating a more pert appearance.
• Reduction: Decreasing the size for better proportion.

Surgical Approaches to Buttocks Enhancement

There are three primary surgical methods used to achieve aesthetic improvements in the buttocks area.

1. Fat Transfer (Brazilian Butt Lift)

This popular method involves using the patient's own fat to enhance the buttocks. Fat is first harvested from other areas of the body with excess fat—such as the hips, back, or abdomen—using liposuction. This fat is then purified and carefully injected into the upper portion of the buttocks to add volume, improve shape, and create a fuller, more rounded appearance.

2. Buttocks Implants (Prostheses)

For patients who do not have enough excess fat for a transfer, silicone implants can be used to add volume. These prostheses are specially designed for the buttocks and are typically placed within the gluteal muscle to ensure a natural look and feel. The implants are inserted through small incisions made in the crease between the buttocks, which leaves a scar that is not readily visible. This procedure is very effective for creating a prominent and pert bottom.

3. Buttocks Lift

A butt lift is designed primarily to address sagging skin, which is often a result of significant weight loss. This procedure involves removing a section of excess, loose skin from the area above the buttocks (often extending towards the hips) to lift the entire region. For patients who have good skin quality and are only concerned with a lack of volume, fat injections or implants are usually sufficient on their own.

Preparing for Surgery

As with all major surgical operations, certain precautions must be taken. Patients must cease using aspirin and stop smoking at least three weeks before a buttocks aesthetic operation. Anticoagulants (blood thinners) and other similar medications must be avoided starting one week before the procedure.

The Procedure: Anesthesia and Duration

Buttocks aesthetic operations are performed in an operating theatre under general anesthetic. Depending on the surgical method used, the procedure typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours.

Recovery and Aftercare

The recovery process varies depending on the specific procedure performed.

• Immediately After Surgery: These are often outpatient procedures, meaning a hospital stay is not always necessary. After the operation, you will be required to wear a special compression garment (corset) for 3 to 6 weeks to support healing and reduce swelling.
• Initial Recovery: The initial recovery period, allowing a return to light daily activities, takes approximately 2 to 10 days.
• Activity and Exercise: Light exercise can be resumed after a few weeks. However, more strenuous activities and sports should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks, or as advised by your surgeon.
• Special Precautions with Implants: In cases where prostheses have been implanted, extra care must be taken when sitting down and standing up to avoid putting pressure on the implants during the healing period.
• Final Results: It is important to be patient, as it takes around 3 to 6 months for all the swelling to completely disappear and for the buttocks to settle into their new, final shape.