Buttock augmentation, more commonly known as ‘butt implants’ is a surgical procedure where artificial implants are put into the buttocks to enhance their size and/or shape. Buttock implants have increased in popularity over recent years thanks to several Hollywood stars such as Jennifer Lopez celebrating their curvy behinds. Having implants allows the patient to get a larger, more shapely bottom.

The Consultation
When you have made your decision to go for buttock implants, you will need to go for an initial consultation with your cosmetic surgeon. Your surgeon will talk through what sort of buttocks you would like both in terms of shape and size. They will then explain all the options including the incision type, location of the implant, type of implant, and whether they feel you could also do with having a butt lift at the same time.

The Surgery
There are several places that incisions may be made some are made where the cheek meets the thigh whilst others are made down the buttock crease. Both forms of incisions are designed to be in the creases of skin so any scars from surgery are as hidden as possible. The majority of the time the incision is made in the buttock crease however this area has a high infection risk than normal.

Sometimes the plastic surgeon will perform liposuction to help the shape of the buttocks. If not, the surgeon will create a large pocket where the implants will be inserted. There are two main places for the implants to be inserted either under the gluteus maximus muscle, or on top of it.

In total, the surgery will probably take around two or three hours. Most patients will be sent home within a few hours of surgery and will not require an overnight stay in hospital.

Post-Surgery
Because buttock augmentation stretches tissues, it can be quite a painful recovery, particularly if you have had implants underneath the muscle. After around 48 hours, the pain should start to lessen and you should be given pain medication from the outset to help you cope. After surgery, you may also be required to take antibiotics and an anti-inflammatory. Read our quick guide to preparing for surgery here.

For about a week after surgery you will be required to wear a compression garment to give your bottom support. Most people will take to their beds for at least 24 hours after surgery.

The rate at which people recover will differ from person to person and it is important to follow the instructions given to you by your surgeon carefully. Most people will be able to return to light work after a few days however physical exertion should be avoided for a couple of weeks after surgery. The stitches will be removed within 14 days of surgery and the swelling will take a few weeks to fully subside. Most people are able to resume sports and physical activities one to two months after surgery.

Risks and Complications
As with any cosmetic surgery there are risks and possible complications. Post-surgery, there is the possibility that the implants will move and your buttocks will no longer be symmetrical. As with breast implants, there is also a small chance that the implants will leak or rupture which will probably mean further surgery is required.