About the Procedure

A buttock lift is a procedure that improves the appearance of the buttocks through cosmetic surgery. It can be used to contour the buttocks, groin, thighs, and abdomen as part of a tummy tuck or a lower body lift.  

A buttock lift will not improve buttock volume on its own. A buttock lift is sometimes combined with buttock augmentation surgery, which uses implants or fat grafts to change the shape or size of the buttocks. During a buttock lift, excess skin and fat are removed from the buttocks. The remaining skin is then repositioned to provide a more toned appearance.

 

Why is the procedure conducted?

The skin changes and loosens as one gets older. Furthermore, UV exposure, weight fluctuations, and genetic factors can all contribute to a lack of skin suppleness. The buttocks, as well as other regions of the body, may sag as a result of these circumstances. 

Typically, a buttock lift is performed in conjunction with other body sculpting treatments. If the patient is looking to improve the buttocks, they might consider the following: 

·    Have you lost a considerable amount of weight and kept it off for at least six to twelve months? 

·    Are you overweight and haven't been able to shed a substantial amount of weight despite the increased physical activity and dietary changes? 

·    Have you gained a healthy weight yet wanted to see a significant change in the appearance of your lower body? 

 

Preparing for Surgery

Before the surgery

A buttock lift can be performed in a hospital or an outpatient surgical centre. General anaesthesia will be used to make the patient unconscious and numb to pain during a buttock lift. To collect urine, a tube will be inserted into the bladder. Sequential compression boots, which are intended to prevent blood clotting before and after surgery, will be placed on the legs. 

During the surgery

The plastic surgeon will make an incision from hip to hip at the lower back. The buttocks are lifted by pulling up the excess skin beneath the incision. After that, the excess skin and fat are removed. They will be given an antibiotic to help prevent infection throughout the surgery. It usually takes two to five hours to complete the surgery. 

After the surgery

The incision will most likely be covered with surgical dressing after a buttock lift. To drain any excess blood or fluid, one or more drains are usually put under the wound and close to the incision line. To prevent blood clots, the health care team will help the patient walk as soon as the first day after the buttock lift. 

The patient will very likely have moderate discomfort, which will be managed first with intravenous pain medication and then with oral pain relief medication, if required, as per the doctor’s instructions. After the surgery, drains may be retained in place for several weeks. The patient will also learn how to clean and clear the drains. After the buttock lift, one may need to continue taking antibiotics and anticoagulants to prevent blood clots till the period as recommended by the doctor.  

The patient will start wearing a supporting garment for a few weeks, some days after the procedure. This will help hasten the healing process by preventing fluid build-up and providing requisite support. 

 

Risks 

The following are some of the risks associated with a buttock lift: 

·    A build-up of fluid beneath the skin (seroma) - Drainage tubes that are left in place after surgery can help prevent seroma. The doctor may use a needle and syringe to remove fluid following surgery. 

·    Poor healing of wound - Areas along the incision line might sometimes heal poorly or separately. If the patient has a wound that isn't healing properly, they may be given antibiotics. 

·    Scaring - The scars from a buttock lift are permanent, although they're usually hidden in places where they're not apparent. 

·    Change in sensations of the skin - The repositioning of the tissues after a buttock lift can damage the superficial sensory nerves. They will probably experience numbness or a loss of sensation. The numbness normally goes away within a few months to a year of the treatment. 

 

Conclusion 

Buttock lift procedures are gaining popularity over the recent years. A patient will have a better chance of a positive outcome if the surgery is conducted by a board-certified, experienced surgeon. Before signing up for the procedure, the patient must be well prepared, should understand the process, charges, and the recuperation time. 

Buttock lift is a popular procedure, but it isn't for everyone. Discuss the intended goals as well as the medical history with the surgeon. They may suggest this surgery or something else that is more appropriate for one’s needs.