Fat Transfer Procedure
On the first visit, fat is harvested from the source location, typically the abdomen. This is done using liposuction. A portion of the fat is then injected into the desired location, in this case the buttocks. A reserve of fat is then kept for subsequent visits. Because a percentage of the fat injected is absorbed by the body, additional injections are required from the stored fat, usually at least six weeks apart. The subsequent injections are done at no additional charge and usually take only a few minutes.
Fat Transfer to the Buttocks Recovery
In order for the fat to keep it’s positioning and to “take,” it is recommended that the patient remain off of the buttocks for 5 days. There is very mild discomfort at first and some temporary swelling can occur in excess of the desired swelling. The fat injection itself is a low risk procedure. The liposuction risks are the same as with any liposuction procedure .
Buttock Implant Procedure Overview
The procedure is approximately two hours in length and is performed with the patient under general anesthesia. A 2-3 inch incision is made in between the buttocks along the midline or “crack.” Through this incision the surgeon lifts the buttock muscle, or gluteus maximums, to make a pocket just large enough for the implant. The implant is then inserted into the pocket. Another implant is placed, using this same method, in the other “cheek.” Before the incision is sealed, the surgeon examines the patient to ensure that the new implants appear natural and symmetrical and adjustments are made if needed. The incision is then stitched using dissolvable stitches and the area is wrapped in compression bandages for protection and to reduce discomfort and swelling.
Since this is an area of the body that is required for walking, sitting, and so many other movements, patients might experience greater pain during the recovery period than other common cosmetic surgery procedures and the recovery time is usually longer. Pain medications typically are prescribed to help with the discomfort, but after approximately 5-7 days the patient is able to be up and about; moving, walking, and sitting more comfortably.There is generally very little swelling and bruising after buttock augmentation so the results may be seen very soon after surgery. Full physical activities are usually permitted within a month after surgery.