Implants vs Butt Lift
I’ve talked before in our Body Contouring blog series about how good it is to see that the curve is being celebrated, and none more so than a shapely, toned derrière. There are two unique techniques available to lift and plump the buttocks: surgically placed silicone buttock implants and the analogous fat transfer (Brazilian butt lift). Your surgeon will help decide on the right technique to achieve your desired aesthetic goals, based on your body type.
Previously we’ve considered the Brazilian Butt Lift procedure but I have had lots of questions about the different techniques, so if you’re considering your options here are some fast facts:
- What is Butt augmentation with implants?
Butt augmentation, also known as gluteoplasty, is the traditional way for individuals to enhance the shape and size of their buttocks. Just like breast implants, silicone butt implants are specifically designed for this area in order to give a more contoured and “perky” looking backside to patients. With help from a board-certified Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon it can be determined during the consultation what size and shape a patient may need to get optimal results for their current body type.
- The Procedure
Butt augmentation with silicone implants is a more invasive procedure than its counterparts of a Brazilian Butt lift. The plastic surgeon will determine where to make the incision and insert the implants. A qualified, experienced plastic surgeon will make the incisions inconspicuous typically in between the butt cheeks or in the underneath folds of the butt cheeks. Like with breast augmentation, the butt implants can be placed above the glute muscle or in the muscle on either side. By comparison, the incisions used in a Brazilian Butt Lift are smaller than with implants, resulting in minimal scarring.
- Butt Implants might be a better “fit”
A Brazilian Butt lift may not always be the right solution for everyone. Women or men who don’t have enough fatty tissue or need to contour another area of their body are likely not good candidates for the fat transfer technique of a Brazilian Butt Lift. Silicone butt implants may be their only solution to achieve the result they desire.
- Why silicone?
Silicone butt implants are not like breast implants which are fluid-filled sacs. Butt implants are comprised of a soft, solid silicone substance that can withstand the use and daily tasks associated with the gluteal area. Sitting, standing, and running are all general daily movements that involve the buttocks area. Silicone butt implants can add more natural curvature to a person’s backside while maintaining their structure so an individual can go about their daily routine.
- Recovery
Irrespective of the technique used, like with all surgical procedures there is a recovery period. Most patients can fully resume activities like exercising or going to the gym within 4-5 weeks. Just be patient with the results. It can take up to 6-9 months for patients to fully see their final results and start really loving their new look!
- Techniques can be combined
The buttocks area is a hard area to contour and lift even with extensive weight training and exercise especially if fighting the signs of ageing. Patients that want to lift and reshape their buttocks typically choose to have a butt lift while getting butt implants in order to achieve an overall desired look. If you are needing a perkier butt and also a little lift, then you might consider having a butt lift in conjunction with butt augmentation in order to have one recovery period for both cosmetic procedures.
- Results
Implants will provide a more rounded shape for your bottom, while a fat transfer creates a natural contour and lift. Those with little body fat may most benefit from buttock implants, while fat transfer can provide excellent results for sagging buttocks.
The advantage of the Brazilian Butt Lift is it not only builds up the buttock area but also slims down areas where you might have excess fat. Fat reduced from the tummy and waist area results in an attractive and natural profile with curves in all the right places.
My Pro Tip:
The results from your buttock augmentation will last for a very long time!
A successful butt augmentation can bring pleasure for years to come. Conversely, if you are unhappy with the results or the final size, it can cost you in confidence, potential discomfort, and money for a revision. Keep this in mind when you are looking at potential surgical options and shapes/sizes. Silicone butt implants are safe and can look fabulous for 10 years or more. Analogous fatty tissue transfer will merge with your own tissues, providing permanent results. This is why choosing the most appropriate realistic size for your body type and lifestyle is so important.