Buttocks Implants
The relationship between the waist, hips and buttocks is key to creating a balanced and well-proportioned figure. When the buttocks lack volume or projection, it can affect how clothing fits and how confident you feel in your body. While some patients find the volume boost they’re looking for via fat transfer, not everyone has enough donor fat or desires that approach.
Buttock implants offer a reliable, long-lasting solution for increasing volume, improving shape and creating a more defined contour. At GVMD, Dr. Glenn Vallecillos takes a tailored, surgical approach to help patients achieve natural-looking enhancement that aligns with their body proportions and aesthetic goals.
What Are Buttock Implants?
Buttock implants are solid silicone devices that are surgically placed within or beneath the gluteal muscles to improve size, shape and projection. Unlike injectable fillers or fat transfer procedures, implants provide consistent, predictable volume that does not fluctuate with weight changes.
These implants are specifically designed for the body, making them more durable and structured than breast implants. They maintain their shape over time while still feeling natural within the surrounding tissue.
Buttock Implants vs. Fat Transfer
While both procedures improve the buttocks, they do so in different ways.
Buttock Implants:
- Provide consistent, predictable volume
- Ideal for lean patients with minimal body fat
- Offer more dramatic projection
- Results are not dependent on fat survival
Fat Transfer (BBL):
- Uses your own fat for a softer enhancement
- Requires sufficient donor fat
- Results can vary depending on fat retention
- Offers body contouring benefits from liposuction
During your consultation, Dr. Vallecillos will help determine which option best aligns with your anatomy and goals.
What to Expect During the Procedure
Buttock implant surgery is performed under general anesthesia in a fully accredited surgical setting.
Incision and Placement
A small incision is typically made within the natural crease between the buttocks to minimize visible scarring. The implant is then carefully positioned either within the gluteal muscle or beneath it, depending on your anatomy and desired outcome.
Implant Positioning
Precise placement is critical. Dr. Vallecillos ensures that the implants are symmetrical and aligned with your natural contours to avoid an artificial or exaggerated appearance.
Procedure Time
The surgery typically takes two to three hours, depending on the complexity of the case.
Recovery and Downtime
Recovery after buttock implants requires some adjustments, particularly in how you sit and rest.
First Few Days
You may experience swelling, tightness and mild discomfort, which is managed with prescribed medication. Compression garments are often recommended to support healing and reduce swelling.
Sitting and Activity Restrictions
Patients are advised to avoid direct pressure on the buttocks for at least two to three weeks. Special cushions or modified positioning can help during this time.
Returning to Normal Activities
- Light activity: within 1–2 weeks
- Work (depending on job): 2–3 weeks
- Exercise: typically after 6–8 weeks
Following post-operative instructions closely is essential for optimal healing and long-term results.
Results and Long-Term Expectations
Once swelling subsides, the final shape becomes more visible. Buttock implants provide immediate volume, but refinement continues over several weeks as the tissues settle.
Results are long-lasting, as the implants maintain their shape and structure over time. Unlike fat transfer, there is no concern about volume loss due to fat absorption.
Patients often notice:
- Increased projection and fullness
- Improved body proportions
- Better fit in clothing
- Enhanced overall silhouette
As with any surgical procedure, buttock implants carry some risks. Choosing an experienced surgeon significantly reduces the likelihood of complications.
Potential risks include:
- Infection
- Implant shifting or asymmetry
- Capsular contracture (scar tissue around the implant)
- Temporary numbness or changes in sensation
Dr. Vallecillos prioritizes surgical precision and patient safety, ensuring that every step of the procedure is carefully planned and executed.
Combining Buttock Implants With Other Procedures
Buttock implants are often paired with other body procedures to create a balanced, proportionate figure. Whether combining makes sense for you depends on your anatomy, your goals, and your recovery plan.
Liposuction
Refining the waist, flanks, and lower back creates a more defined frame for your implants. The contrast between a narrower waist and fuller buttocks can enhance your overall proportions and help your results look balanced.
Tummy Tuck
For patients with loose abdominal skin or separated muscles, a tummy tuck tightens and smooths the midsection. That way the new curves of your buttocks are matched by a more contoured torso.
Thigh Contouring
Reshaping the upper thighs refines the line from hip to leg, so your buttocks blend naturally into a balanced lower-body silhouette. It’s a good option if loose skin or excess fullness in the thighs competes with your new contour.
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Buttock implants are ideal for patients who want a fuller, more sculpted appearance but may not be candidates for fat transfer procedures like a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).
You may be a good candidate if you:
- Have naturally flat or underdeveloped buttocks
- Do not have sufficient fat for transfer
- Want a more dramatic or defined increase in volume
- Maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle
- Have realistic expectations about surgical outcomes
Patients seeking improved projection, symmetry or contour often find that implants provide a more structured, long-term solution than non-surgical options.
Meet Dr. Glenn Vallecillos
Dr. Glenn Vallecillos is a board-certified plastic surgeon, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the first plastic surgeon in the world to pair VASER-assisted high-definition lipoplasty with InMode’s FaceTite and BodyTite platforms. Among his peers, he is known as a national speaker, a contributor to the European Journal of Plastic Surgery and a Senior Faculty Member of Palette/Scientiae.
Among his patients, he is known for natural, elegant results and the discretion and personal attention that define every visit to his Beverly Hills office. Schedule a consultation to experience that level of care firsthand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my results look natural?
Will my results look natural?
Yes. When performed correctly, buttock implants are designed to enhance your natural contours rather than create an exaggerated appearance. Implant size and placement are carefully selected to match your body proportions.
How long do buttock implants last?
How long do buttock implants last?
Buttock implants are designed to be long-lasting. While they do not require routine replacement, they should be monitored over time as part of your overall health and aesthetic care.
Is the procedure painful?
Is the procedure painful?
Discomfort is expected during the initial recovery period, particularly when sitting or moving. However, this is temporary and manageable with medication and proper aftercare.
Will there be visible scarring?
Will there be visible scarring?
Incisions are typically placed within the natural crease between the buttocks, making scars discreet and less noticeable once healed.
Can I sit normally after surgery?
Can I sit normally after surgery?
You will need to avoid direct pressure on the seat for a few weeks. After the initial healing phase, you can gradually return to normal sitting without discomfort.