Buttock Implants

What are buttock implants?

Buttock implants are one of two main procedures aimed at improving the appearance and volume of the bottom. Most people opt for fat grafting, which involves taking fat cells from elsewhere in the patient's body and injecting them into the buttocks. But when people don't have enough fat of their own, implants are usually the next best option. In most cases, silicone implants are inserted into the buttocks through a large incision. To minimise the visibility of scarring, the incision is usually made at the crease between the leg and the bottom of the buttock. This relatively straightforward procedure is purely cosmetic, and it's not for everyone. Speak with your surgeon before making a decision as there are alternatives.

How do buttock implants work?

1. Consultation

A cosmetic surgeon may want to meet with you before agreeing to perform this surgery. You'll be asked a range of lifestyle questions, as well as questions about your medical history. It's important that you're honest during the consultation period because silicone implants aren't for everyone. You'll also be asked about your desired results. For example, how large do you want your new buttocks to be? Do you simply want to make your buttocks more defined? Or do you want a buttock lift?

2. Anaesthesia

This relatively simple procedure is performed under both local and general anaesthetics. Which one you have depends on your surgeon's preference, your own preference and any medical problems. For example, if you've had a bad reaction to a general anaesthetic in the past, your cosmetic surgeon will probably recommend a local anaesthetic.

3. The implant procedure

A large incision is made directly underneath each buttock - in the crease above the leg. This ensures that any scarring is largely obscured from view. Each implant is pushed into place through the incision. While it's possible to position an implant above the glute muscle, most surgeons believe the best results are delivered by intra-muscular implants.

4. Recovery

Once the implants are firmly in place, the wound is stitched. Fluid is likely to build up, so your surgeon will probably fit some surgical drains. Once the wound is dressed, you'll be given some compression garments to wear. Similar to tight-fitting underwear, these garments keep your new implants in place - giving them the best possible chance of long-term success. If you've had a local anaesthetic, you'll probably be allowed to go home after being observed for an hour or two. You may need to stay in hospital overnight if a general anaesthetic was administered.

Are there different types of buttock implants?

The main alternative to silicone implants is fat transfer. Surgeons "suck" fat from other areas of your body and inject it directly into the buttocks to add volume and definition. This fat is usually taken from fleshy areas of the body, such as the thighs and abdomen. Surgeons sometimes use a mix of fat transfer and silicone for the best possible results. Another alternative to silicone involves the injection of a filler called Sculptra. This is a quick procedure that can be administered during your lunch hour. You get the immediate benefit of increased volume, and your body uses the substance to create more collagen - which delivers lasting results over the following months and years. Be very careful about your choice of healthcare provider when it comes to buttock implants. There are some unlicensed providers offering potentially dangerous hydrogel injections. Some of these providers administer these risky injections in homes without the most basic of safety and hygiene equipment.

What should I expect?

Silicone buttock implants are similar to breast implants. And they're inserted in a similar way. This method of buttock augmentation is surgical, so expect to experience significant pain and discomfort afterwards. If you're going for a less invasive option, you may be able to return to work the same day. However, as with any surgical or cosmetic procedures, there's always a risk of potentially serious complications.