The cosmetic procedure gluteal augmentation has been around for a while, but has only begun to be a popular cosmetic surgery choice in the last few years. This procedure augments the buttocks of men or women who are unhappy with the shape.

There are two options to consider with this surgery. The first choice is to install implants to give the buttocks their desired shape. It is also possible to use existing body fat to round out the bottom according to the patient's request.

Procedure information
When the buttocks are augmented using fat tissue, donor sites on the patient's body are used. Usually, the fat is taken from the hips, thighs or the back using liposuction. The fat is then inserted into the buttocks with a series of small incisions. This gives a more natural look than the alternative, which is buttock implants. Patients without fat donor sites on their body will have to use implants.

Implants are used if the patient desires a more extreme transformation. In this case, incisions are made at the base of each buttock and the implant is slipped in underneath the skin. With either surgery, about 1.5 to 2 hours under general anesthesia is needed to complete the procedure.

Recovery time
Since the buttocks is an area that takes a lot of the pressures of daily life, healing time can be significantly longer than other forms of cosmetic surgery. Gluteal augmentation will cause pain which can be somewhat relieved by painkillers.

A compression garment must be worn for up to 2 weeks after surgery and you should take extra care with your daily tasks. Some patients can resume exercise after 2 weeks, but it's best for the patient to consult their surgeon with regards to resuming regular exercise.