What Is Buttock Augmentation?
These procedures are for the individual who is unable to develop proportionate Gluteal muscles, lacks buttock fat, or simply desires more augmentation in the buttock area.  The buttocks are augmented with the use of implants specifically designed for such a use or with your own fat, if applicable.  Weightlifters sometimes request Buttock implants to augment underdeveloped Gluteal muscles to give a more balanced look as they have less actual body fat percentage to liposuction and re-inject.  Sometimes these individuals request Calf implants as well to complete the package, if need be.  But you don't have to be a weightlifter to desire a well balanced physique; buttock implants and buttock augmentation with fat grafting are for anyone who would like more curves where they have none. 

With Buttock Implants
The implants are either made from solid silicone, a firm yet pliable material or a more softer form of cohesive silicone encased in a silicone bag.  With cohesive silicone, there is a more natural feel and if there is a rupture these cohesive silicone is reported not to leak.  The solid silicone implant is made of the same material as used in some chin implants, male pectoral implants and calf implants.  This implant was once "clear" but is now mostly manufactured brilliant white.   However the demonstration models are bright blue for easier contour viewing.  This implant is more resistant to wear and tear than a gel or saline filled mammary type of implant.  You are measured at your pre-operative visit for the size and shape beneficial to your individual needs.  It is quite possible that your surgeon may elect to customize implants for your specific needs.  This will be discussed at your consult.

With Fat Grafting  
You must have a plentitude of existing body fat, say in the flanks, back, thighs, abdomen, arm, etc. to harvest for use in augmentation.  When fat is transplanted into areas that are not predetermined fat areas, like the lips, the chance of fat survival is nominal after the first implantation if no vascularity is introduced to the inner most areas of fat.  This results in fat necrosis (fat cell death) which your body will safely absorb and your augmentation results, lessened.  With this procedure, reportedly there is nominal fat necrosis/absorption.

Preparing For Your Surgery
You will be given a pre-operative information packet that explains everything you should do and know before your surgery date.  The packet should include all the medications you should not take for up to 2 weeks before your surgery.  These medications will include, but are not limited to, aspirin containing products. Would you like to view a typical Medication & Supplements List?  Also, your surgeon may or may not advise you of the benefits of Arnica montana for swelling and bruising.  Would you like to learn of the benefits of Arnica montana?  He or she may also discuss Bromelain with you.It is quite possible that you will have preliminary blood work performed.  This is normally an extra out-of-pocket expense that the patient must participate in to check your white and red blood cell count (CBC, complete blood count) and check for disease or disorders beforehand.  So many things to do... so little time.  Surgery will be here before you know it so visit the Preparing For Surgery page and relax.  This section contains, printer-friendly pre-op lists, tips and advice as well as things you must do to prepare for your big day.

How These Procedures Are Performed
In the Buttock Implant procedure... the implant is placed between the fascia (the thick, white connective tissue, covering the actual muscle) and the muscle itself.  The implants are placed above the sitting area so you never actually sit on them.  To get a better idea as to where Buttock implants would be placed, sit down, with good posture and feel where your jean back pockets are (or would be)... that is where the implants would sit.

The incisions are made where the cheek meets the back of the thigh.  Within a year, after full maturation of the scar, you will be unable to tell that you had a surgery.  I mean you would have to bend over and stick your rear close to a mirror and have a high powered flashlight and look really close to see the scar.  Then again, why would you do this?

Another incision is also being made within the "crack." This scar placement is ideal but the infection rate may be higher.  As with any procedure there is always a plus and minus of the various techniques or placements of incisions.

In the Micro Fat Grafting Technique... the fat is gently removed using low-vacuum liposuction with a special cannula that is very thin and least-damaging.  The fat particles are then purified, then inserted into the layers of the buttocks through a single 1/8" incision.  The tiny droplets of fat are carefully implanted near tiny vessels so that improved vascularity and adequate blood supply is given to the newly placed fat cells to increase chances for survival.

The Road To Recovery
Implants: Well, you get to sleep on your stomach for 2 weeks or more with this procedure.  Expect to be down for about 2 weeks.  There will be swelling and bruising which can be remedied with your prescribed pain medication and ice packs.  The sutures are taken out in about 10 days and you MUST be very careful not to move around too quickly. Take it easy.

With Micro Fat Grafting: is not as difficult as augmentation with implants or major liposuction.  You will have to stay near the clinic for 3 to 4 days in case of complications and for a first week follow-up.  You are able to return to work within 5 to 7 days, normally.  You may return to normal activities within in 2 weeks, although to be safe, three.

Risks & Complications
Implants: There is is the possibility of infection and a higher shifting rate. Especially in those patients who do not allow themselves proper recovery time.  Also reported: hematoma, seroma, misplacement, rotation, asymmetry and the implant falling to a lower region, ending up with a saggy rear end.  This is normally due to doing too much, too soon and not letting the implant settle correctly. You MUST let your body heal or you will be sorry, period.  This goes with all surgeries.  You may feel better, but that doesn't mean you ARE better.

With Micro Fat Grafting: the risks are nominal.  With the exception of possible infections at the incision and harvest sites as well as possible anesthesia reactions.

Related Links (links leading out of the site will launch a new window)
YTF! Real Success Stories - What I Did For A Rounder Rear-End – Micro Fat Grafting

References
(1) Pre & Post-operative Instructions and comments courtesy John A. Rusca, MD - Atlanta, GA Board Certified Plastic Surgeon