BUTTOCK IMPLANT

An area of the body not easily enlarged, shaped by weight training or diet is the buttocks region. Individuals that wish to enlarge, lift, and shape the buttock mounds, have a variety of different size and shape of buttock implants from which to choose.

With the patient asleep (general anaesthesia) a 2-3 inch incision is made between the buttocks in the midline. Through this incision the buttock muscle (gluteus maximus) is lifted up and a pocket is made just large enough for the implant. The implant is inserted into its pocket. The opposite side is then completed. Both sides are carefully examined in order to assure that the results look natural and symmetrical. Dissolvable stitches are placed in the skin incision. A bandage is placed that provides compression to the buttocks which in turn helps reduce discomfort and swelling. The patient can leave the hospital within an hour or so after the procedure.

• PATIENT NEEDS HELP DURING RECOVERY

The patient may be very uncomfortable the first several days. It is difficult to turn in any position to get comfortable and it is important that someone be with the person at least overnight and probably for the next several days just to help get out of bed, prepare meals, etc. 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.

• REMOVAL OF TAPE DRESSING IN 2-3 DAYS

The taped dressing that is applied during surgery to provide compression and support is usually removed two to three days following surgery. At this time the patient can take showers and begin to move around more normally. The results can be seen immediately but the buttocks look more natural and become more soft as the muscle stretches during the several months after surgery.

• FULL ACTIVITIES CAN RESUME IN 4 WEEKS

Full activities including gym work, bicycling, and running can usually be resumed about four weeks following surgery. It may take up to six or eight months until the results feel as if they're part of the body and the patient forgets about them even being there.