In recent years, American society has witnessed a rise in the popularity of voluptuous buttocks. The shape of the buttocks is determined by the fullness of the buttock soft tissue, the size and shape of the gluteus maximus (cushion for the pelvis), gluteus medius and gluteus minimus muscles, and the angle of the lumbosacral curve at the base of the spine. Some people have naturally less prominent buttocks and desire augmentation to improve their shape and appearance. With age, the elasticity of our skin declines and the distribution of fat and muscle change, which can cause the shape of the buttocks to appear flat or droopy. Extreme dieting, exercise and/or weight loss can also have a detrimental impact on the appearance of our buttocks and can leave us with large amounts of excess skin.
Contact Gabbay Plastic Surgery today to speak to our team about the Beverly Hills Brazilian butt lift procedure we offer.
Gluteal augmentation is a surgical procedure that uses gluteal implants or a fat transfer (fat removed from one area of the body and transferred to another) to increase the size of the buttocks and to create a rounder, more attractive shape. A buttock's shape often cannot be significantly altered through diet or exercise—a surgical solution can be an excellent way to improve this aesthetically unpleasant condition*. At Gabbay Plastic Surgery, Dr. Joubin Gabbay M.D. has gained wide recognition for his phenomenal gluteal augmentation work and has helped numerous of patients improve the appearance of their buttocks through gluteal augmentation surgery.
Since 1969, numerous attempts have been made by medical professionals to find a solution to the cosmetic problem of deflated, flat-looking buttocks. Most of these attempts were unsuccessful; however, recent technological advances in the field of plastic surgery have provided plastic surgeons today with effective tools and surgical options to restore lost gluteal volume, and create full, round buttocks.
The two primary variations of buttock augmentation procedures include:
After evaluating your current physical health and surgical goals, Dr. Gabbay will select the best procedure to fulfill your aesthetic objectives*. Patients often elect to undergo gluteal augmentation surgery in order to correct their flat, sagging buttocks, or to improve the contour and projection of their gluteal area*.
Men and women from all walks of life have come to Gabbay Plastic Surgery seeking out Dr. Gabbay’s assistance to surgically enhance the appearance of their gluteal region. Our professional staff is dedicated to ensuring that your experience with us is comfortable and rewarding and that you are extremely happy with your surgical results. If you would like additional information about gluteal augmentation surgery, please call Gabbay Plastic Surgery today, and let us schedule your initial complimentary consultation with Dr. Gabbay.
The gluteal muscles, responsible for creating the shape of the buttocks,
are one of the most problematic areas to tone and can be especially difficult
when trying to augment the size of the buttocks while maintaining skin
tone and muscular definition. The round shape and projection of the buttocks
are determined by the subcutaneous fat content in the gluteal region (fullness
of the three gluteal muscles) and by the angle of the lumbosacral curve
(visible triangle shape) at the base of the spine. When the muscle mass
and angle of the gluteal curve loses volume due to genetics, changes in
weight, or the aging process, the projection of the buttocks becomes flatter,
making it insufficient in relation to the rest of the body.
A curvaceous gluteal region can make the waist and thighs look smaller,
which brings the torso into more pleasant proportions, and for patients
trying to achieve this ideal buttock shape, gluteal augmentation surgery
may be the answer*.
One of the most important variables associated with buttock augmentation is the patient’s initial gluteal shape. No two bodies are alike, and the specific shapes of the buttocks have been classified into the following categories:
Although aesthetic preferences vary considerably, some of the most widely accepted characteristics of an aesthetically pleasing gluteal region include:
A good candidate for gluteal augmentation should be an adult in good health with realistic surgical expectations. Gluteal augmentation is best suited for patients who:
If you think gluteal augmentation may be right for you, the first step is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gabbay at Gabbay Plastic Surgery.
During your initial consultation, you will be asked several questions about your health and lifestyle including:
Dr. Gabbay will evaluate your general health status to determine any risk factors and will analyze your body and gluteal structure for balance, symmetry, size, and shape, in order to make the best possible decisions regarding your gluteal augmentation surgery.
Over the past few years, gluteal implants have undergone significant improvements, and previous problems with rupturing and unnatural-feeling implants have been corrected. The most popular gluteal implants today are made out of soft-solid (elastomer) silicone and have a consistency that matches the natural tissue in the buttocks. Gluteal implants are typically used to enlarge the buttock region; however, in some cases, they are also used to treat problems with gluteal asymmetry, or for gluteal reconstructive purposes.
There are several styles and sizes of gluteal implants, which vary in dimension and volume to suit a variety of aesthetic tastes. Gluteal implants are designed specifically to augment the gluteus maximus muscle, thereby producing a more desirable shape to the buttocks*. Depending on the specific look you desire, Dr. Gabbay will review the implant shapes and sizes to help you find the perfect gluteal implants for your needs and surgical goals*.
Gluteal implant surgery offers a number of benefits, including:
Gluteal augmentation with fat grafting involves the removal of the patient’s own fat from a donor site (ie. abdomen, back, hips or thighs) using liposuction. The fat is then purified and strategically injected into the buttocks—most of the fat is injected into the upper quadrant of the buttocks to create a more lifted and fuller appearance. Gluteal fat transplants look and feel completely natural, and the technique allows for a smooth, even distribution of fat*.
Gluteal augmentation with implants is typically an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia (although in some cases an epidural block or local anesthesia with sedation may be used). Dr. Gabbay will make a small incision vertically in the fold between the buttock cheeks so that no scars will be visible*. He will then create a pocket between the muscle and fat layers for the silicone implant to be inserted between the gluteus maximus muscle and between the gluteus medius and minimus muscles, which will ensure that the implant will remain securely in place. Once the pocket is ready, he will position the pre-selected implant decided upon during your pre-operative consultation.
After checking that both buttocks are symmetrical, Dr. Gabbay will stitch the incisions closed with dissolvable or nylon sutures and will insert a local anesthetic into the pocket with the implant to ameliorate any discomfort. In some cases, a suction drain will be placed in the implant pocket to prevent blood and tissue fluid buildup. Following the 2-3 hour surgery, the patient will be given a compression garment to wear to minimize postoperative swelling.
Gluteal augmentation with fat grafting may be performed under general anesthesia, an epidural block, or local anesthesia and IV sedation. The patient will be given antibiotics before a tumescent solution is injected into the areas where fat will be removed. After the fat has been harvested from the donor site, it is then placed into a centrifuge, where it is spun at a high speed to separate its components, and the separated fat is treated to eliminate any damaged cells. The fat is then carefully injected into the areas of the buttocks that need enhanced volume. Because fat is denser than other injectable materials, Dr. Gabbay will inject it deep into the tissues. Although the body will reabsorb some of the fat over time, the overall fat grafting results tend to be long-lasting, if not permanent.
After your gluteal augmentation, you will spend a short time in the recovery room before being released to a family member or friend who will drive you home and care for you in the early phase of your recovery, as you will have significant activity restrictions for approximately two weeks to allow proper healing to take place. Gluteal augmentation with implants can be uncomfortable initially, as the buttocks are tender from surgery and the implants settle into their natural position. You will be given prescriptions for antibiotics, pain relievers, muscle relaxants, and steroids to reduce the swelling minimize any discomfort.
You will spend most of your first two weeks lying on your stomach, and your activity will be severely limited for another 2-4 weeks*. If Nylon sutures were used, they will be removed within two weeks. To ensure proper healing, you will be required to wear your compression garment to protect the buttocks during the healing period. Restrictions for up to six weeks include no heavy lifting, pulling, pushing, driving (only for first 2-3 weeks), strenuous physical activity, bathtubs, jacuzzis, or pools (you may shower 48 hours after surgery as long as dressings are replaced carefully).
After approximately one month, you can slowly resume exercising at a mild pace, and most patients are able to resume their normal activities in approximately six weeks*. Postoperative visits to Gabbay Plastic Surgery will be frequent for several weeks to ensure your gluteal region is healing properly.
Immediately following your fat transplant procedure, the treated area will be numb from the local anesthetic, and the area(s) will be sore and swollen due to the extra fat injected to make up for the fat that does not survive. It is extremely important to keep pressure off the treated area as much as possible for at least the first two weeks, after which time, the swelling will start to decrease significantly*. In order to create an environment conducive to the growth of fat, it is recommended that you eat a high carbohydrate diet for 2-4 weeks and that you avoid fat-burning exercises for the first two months. To keep direct pressure off of the buttock area, you should sleep on your back, avoid wearing tight clothing or undergarments, and use a pillow or folded blanket placed under your thighs when you sit to avoid undue pressure on your buttocks.
Although rare, gluteal augmentation surgery involves some risks or complications, such as: nerve or muscle damage, implant dislocation (due to early activity), infection, asymmetry, hematoma (bleeding), delayed wound healing, seroma (collection of tissue fluid), fat embolism, distortion, discoloration, and overcorrection*. You can reduce the risk of complications and side effects by following Dr. Gabbay’s pre- and post-operative instructions provided to you during your consultation. For your convenience, Dr. Gabbay is available at any time (even after hours) if you have any questions or concerns regarding your surgery or recovery.
At Gabbay Plastic Surgery, our Beverly Hills plastic surgeon is committed to providing the absolute highest quality service available. Call us today at (310) 928-2558 to schedule your initial consultation!
Gluteal augmentation, also known as buttock augmentation, refers to procedures that enhance the appearance of the buttocks. A rounder, more lifted, and prominent appearance can be created using either silicone implants or fat grafting techniques. Patients seeking gluteal augmentation are typically looking to improve boxy, flat, small, or saggy buttocks. In some cases, gluteal augmentation is also used for reconstruction or the treatment of asymmetry.
Butt implants can make the buttocks larger and shapelier, helping women feel more confident about their sensuous appearance*. For those who have underdeveloped buttocks, buttock implants can provide a more proportionate figure and voluptuous curves*.
Buttock implants are usually placed beneath the fascia, known as subfascially, which means beneath the fibrous lining that encases the buttock muscles. The implants may also be placed in the intra-muscular plane, within the muscle, and this is commonly used when the patient is thin and has little body fat. Both implantation sites have benefits and are well tolerated by the body*.
In most cases, the anesthesia you receive will be general, although in some cases, a local anesthetic combined with a sedative may be used. Typically, an incision is made in the buttock crease so scars will not be noticeable*. Dr. Gabbay will then create a pocket large enough to insert the implants, placing them either on top or under the gluteus maximus muscle. In some cases, Dr. Gabbay will perform liposuction to further enhance the shape of the buttocks. After performing the same procedure on both buttocks, Dr. Gabbay will make sure that they are symmetrical and look proportionate before stitching up the incisions*.
Buttock implant surgery usually takes 2-3 hours depending on the technique used, the placement of the implants, the patient’s anatomy, type of anesthesia used, and whether other procedures are combined with the implant surgery*.
Gluteal implants sold for use in the United States are generally made of a solid silicone matrix material, so there is no fluid inside of them. This allows Dr. Gabbay to contour them as needed for a customized fit and size. Cohesive Gel implants have been available for a while, but they are not suited for gluteal implantation procedures.
During a gluteal procedure, the buttock implants stretch the tissues, and this can be painful, depending on your tolerance of pain. This is especially true when the implants are placed under the muscle, and the discomfort is greatest within the first 48 hours but improves with each day. Pain can be relieved with medication, and despite the initial discomfort; most patients feel that it is worth it to achieve the final results.
When you wake up, you will feel tired, sore, and stiff*. Antibiotics and anti-inflammatory pain medication will be prescribed. It is important that you follow all of Dr. Gabbay’s instructions, and it helps to have your prescriptions filled before your surgery.
You will need to arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home and assist you for the first few days, as you will be in bed for the first 24 hours following surgery. You will be wearing a compression garment to provide support, and this should not be removed for the next 2-3 weeks following gluteal implant augmentation. You should avoid sitting or lying on your buttocks while the area heals, and the swelling may take several months to a year to fully dissipate. You will be allowed to return to work and exercise depending on your healing capacity, and when Dr. Gabbay advises you to do so.
If you want fuller buttocks and a more attractive contour, butt implants may be a good solution for you*. Patients seeking gluteal implants at Gabbay Plastic Surgery usually complain of a flat behind, with no curve or volume.
Because of the incision placement, scarring from gluteal augmentation is usually not noticeable*.
It is critical that you follow Dr. Gabbay’s instructions carefully to ensure a speedy recovery and some of the guidelines may include:
In general, the best candidates for buttock implants are:
There are many other factors to consider before it is determined that you are a good candidate and this will be decided during your consultation with Dr. Gabbay
During this procedure, Dr. Gabbay will take fat from another area of the body, and inject it into the buttocks to increase the size and enhance the shape*.
With buttock implant surgery, there is a possibility that the implants may shift and cause the buttocks to appear asymmetrical*. Although complications are rare, some may include*:
Like any other surgery, you will need to have routine blood tests done due prior to the administration of the anesthesia. You may also be required to undergo additional tests and Dr. Gabbay will give you all of the details before your procedure.
With any type of cosmetic surgery, recovery result times vary. Some patients who bruise easily may have longer to wait to see the results, while other people do not bruise, may see their results much sooner. Swelling is another factor and on average, the final, optimal result can be seen a few months after your surgery date*.
There are basically two techniques used for gluteal augmentation: buttock implants and fat transfer to the buttocks. With implants, an incision is made and the butt implant is inserted. In a fat transfer, fat is taken from one area of the body and injected into the buttocks with a syringe.
Dr. Gabbay is committed to making the results from gluteal augmentation natural looking. Others may not even be able to tell you have undergone a cosmetic procedure, although you will notice an enhanced size and shape in your buttock area*. Fat transplant results are subtler than those produced by butt implants, however, they typically need touch-ups*.
During your consultation with Dr. Gabbay, you can expect that he will inquire about your reasons for gluteal augmentation and he will conduct a thorough examination of the areas you want to be improved. He will also evaluate your medical history and current health status. If it is determined that you are a good candidate, he will explain the surgery, and encourage that you ask any questions and voice all of your concerns. In the month or two following your procedure, you will still continue visiting Dr. Gabbay for regular check-ups.
Fat transfer to the buttocks results in smaller incisions, less scarring, and a shorter healing time, although the results are not permanent*.
If fat grafting is the technique chosen for your butt augmentation, Dr. Gabbay will perform liposuction on a harvest site on your body where excess, unnecessary fat is stored. The fat is then cleansed and purified using a fan pattern, and the fat is injected into the buttocks. After a sufficient amount of fat has been introduced, the incisions will be closed.
