Who is Buttock Aesthetics Not Suitable For?
Buttock aesthetics is a procedure that is not suitable for everyone and requires careful evaluation. Firstly, patients with active infections, especially those close to the surgical area, should refrain from the procedure due to the serious risks involved. Systemic diseases like uncontrolled diabetes can negatively affect the healing process and increase the risk of infection. Individuals with bleeding disorders or those taking blood-thinning medications have a higher risk of bleeding during and after surgery.
Psychological health is also an important evaluation criterion. Patients with unrealistic expectations about surgical outcomes or those with psychiatric issues such as body dysmorphic disorder may experience dissatisfaction even if satisfactory results are achieved. Therefore, it is recommended to assess the psychological state before undergoing aesthetic procedures.
Insufficient soft tissue coverage is another contraindication, especially for silicone implant applications. In such cases, the risk of complications increases, and the desired aesthetic appearance may not be achieved. Additionally, patients with known allergies to the materials used should undergo a detailed allergy evaluation before the procedure.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women are not recommended for aesthetic procedures. Hormonal changes can affect the healing process, so procedures should be postponed until after the breastfeeding period is completed. Patients prone to keloid or hypertrophic scar formation may develop exaggerated surgical scars, negatively impacting aesthetic outcomes.
How is Buttock Aesthetics Performed?
Buttock aesthetics is a surgical procedure chosen by individuals to achieve a fuller, more symmetrical, and aesthetic appearance in the hip area. This procedure is typically performed using autologous fat grafting (Brazilian Butt Lift – BBL) or hip implants. Both methods are selected based on the patient’s needs and anatomical structure.
- Autologous Fat Grafting (Brazilian Butt Lift):
The Brazilian Butt Lift is performed by transferring fat taken from other parts of the body to the buttocks. The procedure is usually done under general anesthesia. In the first stage, fat is extracted through liposuction from areas such as the abdomen, waist, sides, or thighs. During liposuction, a tumescent solution is used to reduce the risk of bleeding and facilitate fat collection. The extracted fat is then purified through filtering and centrifugation techniques to obtain pure fat. This purified fat is strategically injected into the buttocks. This method offers the advantage of both buttock shaping and improving the contour of the fat extraction areas. However, it should be noted that a portion of the transferred fat may be absorbed by the body.
Hip implants are ideal for patients who do not have sufficient fat tissue or desire a significant volume increase. This procedure is also performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon makes small incisions in the natural curves of the hips to place the implants beneath the gluteus muscles. The selected implants are placed according to the patient’s aesthetic goals in terms of size and shape. The incisions are closed with sutures, and the healing process begins. While hip implants offer more permanent results, they carry risks such as infection, implant displacement, and wound healing problems.
In some cases, both techniques can be applied together. This approach is preferred when a significant volume increase is desired or when there are specific anatomical needs. In any case, the guidance of an experienced surgeon is essential for achieving successful results.
What are the Side Effects of Buttock Aesthetics?
Like any surgical procedure, buttock aesthetics carries certain side effects and risks of complications. Therefore, it is important for candidate patients to be well-informed about this process and to understand the potential risks to make an informed decision.
- Autologous Fat Grafting (BBL) Side Effects:
The Brazilian Butt Lift is performed by injecting fat taken from the body into the buttocks. While this method provides a natural appearance, it carries serious risks.
Fat Embolism: One of the most severe complications, this occurs when fat enters the bloodstream and travels to vital organs, potentially resulting in death. It is crucial to note that this risk is closely related to the surgeon’s experience performing the procedure.
Infection: Bacterial infections can develop in the injected areas and may sometimes require surgical intervention.
Asymmetry: Uneven absorption of the injected fat can lead to asymmetrical results.
Fat Necrosis: Dead fat cells can cause hard lumps or irregularities.
- Silicone Implant Side Effects:
Silicone implants are an effective option for patients who do not have sufficient fat tissue. However, this method also has its disadvantages.
Infection: The use of a foreign substance increases the risk of infection. In severe cases, implants may need to be removed.
Implant Displacement: Incorrect placement or movement of the implant can create asymmetry.
Capsular Contracture: Scar tissue around the implant can harden, leading to shape deformities.
Both methods carry general surgical risks.
Deep Vein Thrombosis: Post-surgery immobility can lead to clot formation.
Scarring: Visible scars can cause aesthetic discomfort.
Permanent Pain and Numbness: Nerve damage can cause pain or numbness.
How Successful is Buttock Aesthetics?
Buttock aesthetics is one of the rapidly growing areas of aesthetic surgery and requires proper patient selection, appropriate surgical technique, and an experienced surgeon to achieve successful results. The success of the procedure can vary depending on the method used, the patient’s anatomy, and the surgeon’s skill.
Autologous Fat Transfer (BBL): BBL is known for providing natural-looking results. However, the success of this method depends on the survival rate of the injected fat cells. On average, about 50-70% of the transferred fat integrates into the tissues long-term. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and proper care post-surgery can contribute to the longevity of the results. However, due to the serious risk of fat embolism, this procedure should only be performed by an experienced surgeon.
Hip Implants: Hip implants are an effective method for increasing volume in individuals without sufficient fat tissue. However, the risks of infection, seroma, and implant displacement must be considered. Results obtained with implants are generally permanent and patient satisfaction is high, but regular follow-ups are important to prevent complications.
Overall, both methods have high patient satisfaction rates, but the success is directly related to the patient’s expectations and the surgeon’s expertise. Therefore, a detailed evaluation before the procedure and open communication about all risks with the patient are critically important.
How to Prepare for Buttock Aesthetics?
Buttock aesthetics requires a well-prepared surgical and psychological process. The first step is a detailed medical evaluation. The patient’s medical history is reviewed to identify bleeding disorders, uncontrolled diabetes, or other health issues that may contraindicate surgery. A physical examination includes assessing skin elasticity, fat distribution, and muscle tone. This information helps determine which method (autologous fat transfer or gluteal implant) is more suitable for the patient. Additionally, the implant option may be considered for patients without sufficient fat tissue.
Surgical planning begins with clarifying the patient’s aesthetic goals and aligning expectations with the surgeon. Visual aids are a fundamental part of the planning process. Markings are meticulously done according to the patient’s anatomy to ensure symmetry and achieve ideal results. Areas for liposuction and implant placement sites are determined during this process.
Patients should quit smoking at least four weeks before the surgery and avoid medications like aspirin that can increase bleeding risk. Maintaining a balanced diet accelerates the healing process. Preoperative blood tests and imaging studies are used to enhance surgical safety.
Logistical preparations are also important. Having a helper available for transportation and care post-surgery is necessary. Preparing a comfortable recovery environment at home and having all necessary materials ready in advance is essential.
How Should Postoperative Care Be After Buttock Aesthetics?
The postoperative recovery process after buttock aesthetics is a crucial phase that directly affects the success of the surgery and the permanence of the results. During the postoperative period, it is essential for patients to follow the surgeon’s instructions carefully and monitor their condition closely.
- Early Postoperative Phase (First 24 Hours and First Week):
In the first days after surgery, patients typically experience mild pain, swelling, and nasal congestion as the effects of anesthesia wear off. Cold compresses can help reduce swelling but should not be applied directly to the nose. Keeping the head elevated helps reduce swelling and regulate blood circulation. During this period, nasal splints or casts should be protected and removed at the time specified by the doctor. Physical activities should be avoided, and buttock aesthetics patients should continue using saline nasal sprays to keep the nasal passages moist.
- Healing Phase (2nd and 4th Week):
During this phase, swelling begins to decrease, and the patient can gradually return to light activities. However, strenuous exercise and physical exertion should still be avoided. The regular use of compression garments should continue to reduce swelling and provide support to the treated area. Wound care remains important in this phase; signs of infection should be closely monitored and the wound area kept clean. To prevent sun exposure, patients should be cautious and use sun-protective products.
- Later Phase (From 2nd Month to 6th Month):
During this period, the shape of the abdomen becomes more defined, but some swelling may persist and requires time to fully resolve. Patients should seek the doctor’s approval before resuming heavy physical activities. It is important to avoid abdominal trauma and minimize exposure to sunlight.
- Long-Term Recovery (6th Month and Beyond):
Approximately six months after the surgery, the abdomen begins to take its final shape. Most swelling has subsided by now. However, if there is any aesthetic or functional dissatisfaction, it should be openly discussed with the doctor. In this phase, protecting the abdomen and continuing regular follow-up appointments are important.