The buttock lift is a procedure aimed at improving the shape and firmness of the buttock area. It may involve removing excess skin, injecting implants, or transferring fat, depending on the patient’s individual needs.
Buttock sagging is an inevitable consequence of the natural aging process and can also be influenced by external factors such as significant weight fluctuations. The role of the plastic surgeon is crucial in correcting this condition, not only to restore the aesthetic appearance but also to enhance the patient’s psychological and social well-being.
Buttock lift techniques require a specialized approach, as each case differs in terms of the degree of sagging and the patient’s preferences.
In cases with significant sagging and excess skin, a more extensive surgical procedure may be necessary, involving the removal of excess skin and the creation of a horizontal incision.
This incision is placed in the buttock area so that it is concealed by underwear. In cases where volume enhancement is also required, fat transfer using stem cells or the placement of injectable silicone implants may be performed.
Ideal Candidates – Buttock Lift
Suitable candidates include individuals who:
- Have lost significant weight and notice sagging in the buttock area.
- Desire improved shape and volume due to aging.
- Do not have underlying chronic conditions that could hinder healing.
- Have a stable body weight.
- Have realistic expectations.
Consultation Session
During the consultation, the surgeon will discuss your needs and preferences, assess your physical condition, inform you about the available options, and develop a personalized surgical plan with you. Each patient is treated on a case-by-case basis. A full medical history and preoperative screening are essential before proceeding with surgery.
Preparation for Surgery
Patients should avoid the following:
- All types of blood-thinning medications for at least 2 weeks before surgery (always in consultation with their physician).
- Taking vitamins and supplements that may affect healing.
- Smoking for at least 4 weeks preoperatively. If quitting is not possible, limit smoking to a maximum of 5 cigarettes per day and stop completely in the immediate postoperative period to avoid complications.
- Alcohol consumption during the last 48 hours before surgery.
The Procedure
The duration and type of anesthesia depend on the method used, typically ranging from 2 to 4 hours.
For minimally invasive procedures, small incisions are made to place injectable implants or transfer fat. The incisions are then closed with sutures.
Postoperative Recovery and Instructions
The recovery process varies depending on the type of procedure. For simple buttock augmentation with fat transfer, the recovery is mild, similar to liposuction.
A buttock lift requires patience. Drains may be used and are usually removed within 5 days. Sitting can be difficult during the first 10 days.
In all buttock surgeries, wearing a compression garment for one month is required, and physical exercise should be avoided during this period.
Complications – Buttock Lift
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Wound dehiscence
- Reactions to anesthesia
To minimize complications and maintain the best results, it is recommended to avoid smoking for at least four weeks before and during the recovery period.
Also note that for this specific procedure, if you become pregnant or lose a significant amount of weight, you should wait until your body stabilizes before undergoing surgery.
A buttock lift might be the solution you’re looking for to achieve the desired shape in the buttock area.
Contact Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeon Dr. Daskalakis for any questions regarding buttock lift surgery or any other plastic surgery concerns you may have.
References
- O’Neill RC, et al. The Role of Fat Grafting in Buttock Augmentation. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (Open Access), 2020
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023974/ - Elsaftawy A., et al. A Safer Approach to Gluteal Augmentation with Ultrasonic Liposuction and Submuscular Implants. Journal of Clinical Medicine, 2024
https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/13/10/2856 - Demir S. Bibliometric Analysis of 75 Most Cited Articles on Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL). Turkish Journal of Plastic Surgery, 2025
https://journals.lww.com/tjps/fulltext/2025/04000/the_bibliometric_analysis_of_75_most_cited.5.aspx
