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Gluteal augmentation

Gluteal augmentation is a type of feminizing bottom surgery that involves changing the size and shape of the buttocks. These procedures are known by a number of names including buttock enhancement, buttock augmentation, butt lift, and Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).

Background

Early attempts at buttock enhancement date back to the mid-20th century, when surgeons experimented with various materials, including silicone injections. These early practices often resulted in severe complications due to the migration of liquid silicone and inflammatory reactions. By the 1960s and 1970s, safer, solid silicone implants were developed, though techniques continued to evolve to improve outcomes and reduce risks.

Fat grafting

Fat grafting techniques began gaining traction in the 1980s and 1990s as liposuction technology improved. However, it was not until the early 2000s that the Brazilian Butt Lift became widely popular, largely due to refinements in fat processing and injection methods. Surgeons also gained a better understanding of vascular anatomy, leading to updated safety guidelines aimed at reducing the risk of fat embolism, a rare but serious complication.

Injectable fillers

In addition to surgical options, non-surgical techniques have emerged. Injectable fillers, such as poly-L-lactic acid or hyaluronic acid-based products, can temporarily enhance buttock shape with minimal downtime. However, these treatments are generally less dramatic and require repeated sessions to maintain results. It is important to note that some unregulated fillers have been associated with serious health complications, emphasizing the importance of qualified medical providers.

Implant surgery

Another common method is buttock implant surgery. This procedure involves placing solid silicone implants either within or beneath the gluteal muscles to increase projection and volume. Implants may be recommended for patients who lack sufficient body fat for transfer or who desire a more dramatic enhancement. While implants can provide predictable and long-lasting results, they typically require a longer recovery period and carry risks such as implant displacement, infection, or capsular contracture.

References

Sinno, S., Chang, J. B., Brownstone, N. D., Saadeh, P. B., & Wall, S. (2016). Determining the Safety and Efficacy of Gluteal Augmentation: A Systematic Review of Outcomes and Complications. Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, 137(4), 1151–1156. https://doi.org/10.1097/prs.0000000000002005

Resources

American Society of Plastic Surgeons (plasticsurgery.org)

American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery (cosmeticsurgery.org)

Stanford Medicine (med.stanford.edu)

  • Buttock Augmentation
  • med.stanford.edu/cosmeticsurgery/aestheticservices/body/buttock-augmentation.html

Mayo Clinic (mayoclinic.org)

  • Buttock Lift
  • mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/buttock-lift/about/pac-20393277

Cleveland Clinic (clevelandclinic.org)

Aesthetic Surgery Journal (academic.oup.com/asj)

Wikipedia (en.wikipedia.org)