Published by Dr. Brandon Richland, MD
Butt augmentation surgery is a customized procedure designed to enhance the size and contour of your buttocks, giving you a fuller, balanced silhouette that fits your body goals. Whether you want a more defined curve or to restore lost volume, our Newport Beach team delivers natural-looking results using the latest, proven techniques.
Butt augmentation, also known as gluteal enhancement, is a cosmetic surgery that improves the shape and appearance of your buttocks. There are two main approaches:
Each method is tailored to your anatomy and desired outcome, and our board-certified team will guide you through the safest, most effective choice for you.
Newport Beach is known for its advanced plastic surgery centers and expert surgeons. Dr. Richland’s practice offers:
Enjoy your recovery in one of Southern California’s most scenic, tranquil communities. Our patients consistently report high satisfaction with their results and care.
You may be a great candidate if you:
Dr. Richland will review your goals, medical history, and physical condition to recommend the best approach, whether that’s a Brazilian Butt Lift or implants.
Ready to learn more? Request a private consultation or call us at 949.867.4496 to discuss your options. Limited consultation slots are available this season, book now for your personalized plan.
Explore real patient stories and see before-and-after photos during your visit. Your comfort, privacy, and satisfaction are our highest priorities.
Selecting the right plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, California (CA) for butt augmentation, it’s crucial to consider their qualifications, experience, and patient reviews. Ensuring that your surgeon is board-certified and has a strong track record specifically in butt enhancement procedures will greatly impact your surgical outcome.
Ensure that the plastic surgeon is board-certified. This certification indicates that the surgeon has undergone rigorous training and adheres to high standards. It’s not just about having a medical degree; a board-certified plastic surgeon specializes in procedures such as butt augmentation and is up-to-date with the latest techniques and safety protocols.
Experience matters significantly in butt augmentation surgeries. Look for a surgeon who has performed numerous procedures specifically in buttock enhancement, whether through implants or fat grafting. Review their portfolio of before-and-after photos to assess their work. Surgeons with seasoned experience in butt augmentation, like those found in Newport Beach, CA, often provide more predictable and satisfactory results.
Reading reviews and testimonials from previous patients can provide firsthand insight into the surgeon’s skill and bedside manner. Seek out feedback regarding their overall satisfaction, recovery process, and any complications experienced. Reliable platforms and the surgeon’s own website often host these reviews.
A thorough consultation is essential for those considering buttock augmentation surgery. This phase helps establish realistic expectations and ensures the patient’s health and suitability for the procedure.
Patients should come prepared with a list of key questions for their plastic surgeon. Asking about the surgeon’s experience and success rate with butt augmentation surgeries is crucial. It’s also important to discuss the different types of procedures available, such as fat grafting versus implants.
Inquiring about the risks, potential complications, and the recovery timeline is equally vital. Patients should also ask about the type of anesthesia used, the expected scarring, and follow-up care. Understanding the costs and available financing options can also help in decision-making.
During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will review the patient’s medical history and discuss their health. The surgeon will perform a physical examination to assess the patient’s anatomy and determine the best approach for augmentation.
Patients can expect to talk about their aesthetic goals and preferences, including options like buttock implants. The surgeon might show before-and-after photos of previous patients. Measurements and photographs may be taken for medical records and surgical planning. The goal of this consultation is to ensure the patient is well-informed and comfortable with the procedure plan.
Buttock implant surgery involves enhancing the shape, size, and overall profile of the buttocks. This section will explain some key medical terms, types of surgeries, and the detailed steps involved.
Butt augmentation surgery involves several terms that are essential to understand. Brazilian butt lift (BBL) refers to fat transfer where fat is taken via liposuction from other body areas and injected into the buttocks.
Silicone implants are solid or semi-solid silicone devices surgically inserted into the buttocks. Silicone butt implants are often compared to BBL, emphasizing their safety and permanence. Incisions are small cuts made to insert implants or during fat transfer. Sutures are stitches used to close incisions.
Anesthesia is administered to prevent pain during the surgical procedure.
There are a few primary types of butt augmentation surgeries. Fat grafting (or fat transfer), often known as a Brazilian butt lift BBL, involves transferring fat from other body parts to the buttocks. Brazilian butt lift surgery is particularly beneficial for those experiencing volume loss, sagging, or poor skin quality due to weight fluctuations or aging.
Silicone implants involve inserting silicone devices into the buttocks for enhanced volume and shape.
Lastly, a traditional butt lift is performed to remove excess skin and lift sagging buttocks without significantly adding volume.
Absolutely. A buttock lift is often performed in combination with other procedures to optimize body contour and help you achieve your desired results. Many patients choose to combine a buttock lift with either a buttock augmentation or a more extensive lower body lift.
Combining procedures does mean a longer surgery time, while a buttock lift alone is relatively quick, adding augmentation or a lower body lift may extend the duration to several hours. Your surgeon will tailor the surgical plan to suit your anatomy and goals, ensuring you understand the benefits, risks, and recovery involved.
If you’re interested in a combination approach, bring it up during your consultation to see if you’re a suitable candidate and to map out the safest and most effective treatment plan for your unique needs.
The surgical steps for a butt augmentation procedure begin with anesthesia administration for patient comfort. For a fat transfer procedure, liposuction is performed to harvest fat from areas like the abdomen or thighs. The collected fat is then purified and injected into the buttocks. This process, known as fat injections, helps refine the results of implant surgery and Brazilian butt lift (BBL) procedures by enhancing the shape and volume of the buttocks.
For silicone implants, a small incision is made either where the buttocks meet the thigh or in the buttocks crease. The implant is inserted through this incision. Once the implant or fat is in place, sutures are used to close the incisions.
Both procedures might involve applying dressings and using compression garments to support healing and shape the buttocks post-surgery.
The cost of butt augmentation surgery varies based on the selected method and the surgeon’s expertise.
The cost of butt augmentation surgery in Newport Beach, CA between $6,000 and $23,000, with an average of around $9,800. These prices depend on factors such as the surgeon’s experience and location, and the specific requirements of the patient.
Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL) tend to be slightly less expensive than implants. On average, the cost is about $6,083, but it can range from $3,500 to $22,000. This method uses the patient’s own fat for augmentation, which involves liposuction and fat grafting. Often, excess fat from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks is harvested and transferred to the buttocks to achieve a more rounded appearance.
Insurance coverage for butt augmentation surgeries generally falls under cosmetic procedures, which are often not covered by health insurance.
Typically, insurance companies do not cover butt augmentation procedures such as Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL) or butt implants. These surgeries are considered elective and cosmetic, thus are not deemed medically necessary.
However, there are exceptions. In cases where the surgery is needed due to an accident, congenital deformity, or other medical necessity, insurance companies may provide some coverage. Patients should consult with their insurance provider and possibly get a letter from their physician to clarify their coverage options.
Non-surgical alternatives to butt augmentation provide a way to enhance body contouring without the risks or recovery time associated with surgery.
Dermal Fillers: One popular option is Sculptra, a dermal filler that can add volume to the buttocks. The procedure typically involves multiple treatments where the filler is injected to stimulate collagen production. It’s effective in improving the shape and size but lasts up to two years. Costs can be significant, starting around $5,000, depending on the number of vials used.
Light Therapy: This technique uses laser or infrared light to tighten skin and improve contours. While less dramatic than fillers, light therapy offers a non-invasive way to achieve firmer buttocks. Results vary and may require repeat sessions for optimal effects.
These non-surgical methods offer viable alternatives for those looking to enhance their buttocks without undergoing surgery, providing significant improvements with fewer risks and shorter recovery times.
Buttocks augmentation surgery offers a variety of benefits, such as improved body contouring and self-confidence, but it also comes with certain risks and complications.
Pros:
One significant advantage of butt augmentation surgery is enhanced body contouring. The procedure can create a rounder, firmer appearance, which can be especially beneficial for those with a smaller, leaner frame.
Many patients report a boost in self-confidence after their surgery, feeling more comfortable in their own skin and satisfied with their enhanced silhouette.
For those choosing fat transfer (like the Brazilian Butt Lift), the added bonus is removing unwanted fat from other areas of the body and repurposing it. The fat cells used in the procedure contribute to the feel and size of the buttocks and their survival rate can impact the final results.
Cons:
Despite its benefits, butt augmentation surgery comes with risks. Common issues include infection and improper healing, such as incision separation. These complications can prolong the recovery process.
Patients must have realistic expectations about the results. While many achieve their desired look, it’s crucial to understand that individual results may vary.
Recovery can be quite intensive. It may involve extended downtime and activity restrictions, impacting daily life temporarily.
Butt augmentation surgery can enhance the shape and size of the buttocks, but it carries certain side effects, risks, and possible complications.
Butt augmentation surgery involves procedures like fat transfer or implants. Buttocks implants are specifically designed to enhance the shape and size of the buttocks through the insertion of silicone implants. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and pain, which are typical during recovery. These side effects can last for several weeks.
Risks include infection, which is a major concern due to the area of the body involved. Complications might involve implant movement, causing asymmetry, or seroma (fluid buildup). Patients might also experience scarring and separation at incision sites. Working with an experienced and board-certified surgeon can help minimize these risks. Always discuss possible complications and be vigilant during the recovery period to spot any unusual symptoms.
Preparing for butt augmentation surgery involves careful planning and following medical guidelines. Important steps include health assessments, lifestyle changes, and pre-surgical instructions from your surgeon.
To prepare for butt augmentation, the surgeon typically requests several medical evaluations. Patients might be asked to undergo a blood test to ensure they are in good health. Adjustments to current medications may also be necessary. Smoking should be avoided as it can interfere with recovery and increase surgical risks.
Patients are usually advised to stop taking aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs which can cause increased bleeding during the procedure. Maintaining or achieving a healthy weight is crucial, as excess body fat can impact surgical outcomes. Specific instructions may also include modifying diet or physical activity levels.
Additionally, the surgeon will provide a detailed preoperative plan that may involve altering lifestyle habits to optimize health before surgery. This plan ensures the patient’s body is in the best possible condition to undergo the stress of surgery and heal effectively afterward. Effective communication with the surgical team is essential to address any concerns or questions before the operation.
Before your buttock lift, you’ll be in either a hospital or an accredited surgical center, where your comfort and safety are top priorities. Expect to receive general anesthesia, so you’ll be asleep and pain-free throughout the entire procedure.
To prepare for surgery, the medical team will likely take a few additional steps right before the operation begins:
By following these steps, your care team ensures you are ready for a smooth and safe procedure, setting the stage for a successful recovery.
Good preparation is key to a safe and successful buttock lift. Your surgical team will guide you through the essential steps, but here’s what you can expect, and what you should do, to get your body primed for the procedure.
Medical Evaluation:
Start with a thorough health assessment. Be open with your surgeon about your current health, past conditions, medications, and any previous surgeries. If your weight has fluctuated, especially following significant weight loss, be ready for questions about your journey and dietary habits. Expect a focused physical exam, possibly including photos for your records, and blood tests to confirm you’re surgery-ready.
Stop Smoking:
If you smoke, now’s the time to quit! Smoking severely limits blood flow, slows down healing, and increases your chances of complications. The best results (and safest recovery) come when you temporarily drop the habit before and after your procedure.
Medication Review:
You’ll likely be asked to pause or adjust certain medications, especially aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, blood thinners, and herbal supplements. These can elevate your risk of bleeding. Always discuss every prescription and over-the-counter pill and supplement you take.
Stabilize Your Weight:
Aim to maintain a healthy, stable weight, ideally for six months to a year prior to the surgery. Significant weight changes after a buttock lift can alter or diminish your results, so patience pays off here.
Plan for Support During Recovery:
Arrange for a trusted friend or family member to pick you up after your procedure and help you at home during the first stage of recovery. This ensures you’re comfortable, supported, and can rest without unnecessary stress.
After a butt augmentation, patients need to follow specific guidelines to ensure optimal healing. The recovery time varies, influenced by the type of augmentation and individual health factors.
For those with silicone implants, the healing process typically includes a longer recovery period compared to fat transfer methods.
First Few Days: Patients may experience significant swelling and bruising. Pain management usually involves prescribed medications.
2-3 Weeks Post-Surgery: Most bruising resolves. Light movements are encouraged, but sitting directly on the implants should be avoided.
4-6 Weeks Post-Surgery: Swelling further subsides, and patients may start light exercise. Sutures are often removed around this time.
3 Months and Beyond: Patients typically see final results. They can resume regular activities and exercise fully.
Strict adherence to the surgeon’s guidelines significantly impacts recovery speed and success.
Recovery after a buttock lift requires patience and attentive care, much like other forms of butt augmentation. Immediately following surgery, the incision site will be bandaged, and drains may be placed to help remove excess fluid and minimize swelling. The surgical team often encourages gentle walking, even on the day of surgery, to help prevent blood clots.
Pain Management and Support:
During the first week, moderate pain and discomfort are common but are usually managed with prescribed medications. Drains, if placed, may remain for several days to weeks, and patients will receive instructions on keeping them clean. In many cases, antibiotics and blood clot prevention medications are continued for a short period after surgery.
Compression and Scar Care:
Within a few days, patients begin wearing a supportive compression garment. This will be worn for several weeks, helping control swelling and supporting the healing tissue. Attention to scar care is important; your surgeon may recommend silicone sheets, scar reduction creams, or gentle massage to encourage optimal healing and reduce scar visibility over time.
Activity Restrictions and Follow-Up:
For the first one to two months, it’s essential to avoid strenuous movements or positions that could place stress on the incision area. Activity levels should be increased gradually, and all post-op instructions from your surgical team should be followed closely. Regular follow-up visits are key to monitoring progress and addressing any concerns that might arise during recovery.
By adhering to these guidelines and communicating openly with your provider, most patients see significant healing within several weeks, with continued improvement in scar appearance and comfort over the following months.
Yes, buttock lift patients are given detailed care instructions to support proper healing and reduce the risk of complications. Immediately after surgery, incisions are typically covered with surgical dressings, and small drains may be placed near the incision area to prevent fluid buildup. Patients are trained by their medical team on how to manage these drains, including how to empty them and care for the incision site.
Walking is encouraged as early as the first day post-procedure to promote circulation and lower the likelihood of blood clots. Pain during the first few days is common and can be managed with prescribed medications. Patients may also be instructed to continue taking antibiotics or blood-thinning medications as a precaution, based on their surgeon’s advice.
A supportive compression garment is generally worn for several weeks following the surgery. This garment helps reduce swelling, provides gentle support, and can prevent fluid accumulation.
Scar care is another important aspect. Your surgeon may recommend methods like silicone sheets, specialized creams, or gentle massage to help scars heal smoothly and fade over time.
In terms of activity, patients should avoid motions or positions that put unnecessary stress on the incision line—especially during the first few months. It’s crucial to follow guidelines on gradually increasing movement and resuming daily activities slowly. Regular follow-up appointments allow your medical team to monitor recovery and answer any concerns as they arise.
By closely following these instructions and maintaining clear communication with your healthcare providers, buttock lift patients can encourage the best possible healing and results.
Managing pain and supporting recovery after a buttock lift requires a combination of medical care and attentive self-care. Immediately after surgery, your incisions will be dressed, and in some cases, small drains may be placed to help prevent fluid buildup. Your surgical team will encourage gentle walking as early as the first day to reduce the risk of blood clots forming.
For pain relief, you’ll typically start with prescription medications, with a gradual transition to oral pain relievers as your discomfort decreases. Some patients may be prescribed antibiotics to lower the risk of infection, as well as blood-thinning medications to help prevent clots.
Wearing a supportive compression garment is standard practice, usually for several weeks. This garment helps control swelling, minimizes fluid accumulation, and supports the healing tissues as they settle into their new shape. You’ll also receive instructions on caring for any drains, including how to empty them and maintain cleanliness during the recovery phase.
Scar management can involve the use of silicone sheets, specialized scar creams, and gentle massage, which all promote better healing and softer, less noticeable scars over time.
For the best outcomes, you’ll want to gradually increase your activity level. Be careful to avoid movements or positions that put strain on your incisions, especially in the first several months. Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions on safe ways to move, lift, and sit during your recovery period. Regular follow-up appointments ensure your healing process stays on track and allow your surgeon to address any concerns that arise.
The longevity of butt augmentation results varies based on the type of procedure and individual patient factors. Understanding the specifics helps in managing expectations and making informed decisions.
Butt implants generally offer long-lasting results. Typically, the implants used are made from durable materials that can last several years, often a decade or more, if there are no complications like shifting or rupture.
Fat grafting involves transferring fat from other parts of the body to the buttocks. While some fat will be reabsorbed by the body over time, a significant portion is likely to remain permanent. Patients might see a stable result within 6 months post-surgery.
The maintenance of results often depends on lifestyle factors such as weight fluctuations, exercise habits, and overall health.
It’s important to follow post-operative instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcomes and longevity of the procedure. Routine follow-ups with the surgeon can help monitor the condition of implants or fat transfer results.
A buttock lift aims to create a smoother, firmer, and more contoured appearance by removing excess skin and fat from the area. Over the long term, most patients enjoy results that last for many years, especially when they commit to maintaining a stable weight. Fluctuations in body weight can affect the longevity of the results, so adopting a balanced diet and a consistent exercise routine is essential.
While the natural aging process will continue and may cause some changes over time, the overall improved contour from a buttock lift is generally preserved. Regular follow-ups with your surgeon can help monitor your progress and address any concerns, ensuring your results remain as optimal as possible.
To preserve the results of a buttock lift, patients should focus on maintaining a stable, healthy weight over time. Frequent weight fluctuations can affect skin elasticity and the overall contour achieved by the procedure, so adopting consistent eating and exercise habits is essential.
Additional strategies for long-lasting outcomes include:
By following these guidelines and attending all recommended post-surgical appointments, patients can maximize the longevity and quality of their buttock lift results.
Butt augmentation surgery can significantly improve the shape, size, and contour of the buttocks. The results vary depending on the procedure chosen and the individual’s body type.
Patients undergoing butt augmentation surgery often see an increase in volume and projection, leading to fuller and rounder buttocks. Silicone implants are typically chosen for patients with minimal body fat, providing enhanced shape and firmness.
For those opting for fat transfer, also known as a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), the results include a more natural appearance and feel. The transferred fat is often taken from other areas of the body, enhancing both the donor and recipient areas.
It is common for initial swelling to mask the final outcome, which typically becomes visible over several months. Scarring is minimized by placing incisions in strategic locations.
The recovery following a buttock lift involves a carefully managed aftercare process to support optimal healing and results. Immediately post-surgery, the incision areas are typically covered with dressings, and in many cases, small drains are placed to help remove excess fluid and reduce swelling.
Early movement is encouraged, often with the assistance of the care team, to promote circulation and help prevent blood clots. Patients may experience some discomfort, which is usually controlled with prescribed pain medication in the initial days. It’s not uncommon for drains to remain in place for a week or two, and your provider will show you how to properly care for them at home.
Patients may also be advised to take a short course of antibiotics to ward off infection and, in some cases, a medication to reduce the risk of blood clots. After the first few days, wearing a snug, supportive compression garment becomes essential. This garment helps manage swelling, supports the healing tissues, and minimizes fluid buildup.
Scar care is an important part of the recovery journey. Your surgical team may recommend silicone sheets, specialized creams, or massage techniques to help scars soften and fade over time.
During the first several weeks and months, it’s important to be cautious with movement. Activities that place strain on the incision line should be avoided to prevent complications. Gradual, gentle increases in activity are encouraged as healing progresses. Regular follow-up visits with your surgeon will ensure your recovery is on track and allow for any necessary adjustments in care.
With consistent adherence to aftercare instructions and proper scar management, most patients see steady improvement in comfort and appearance as healing continues.
Butt augmentation before and after photos provide a visual representation of the results that can be achieved through various procedures like silicone implants and the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL). Viewing these images helps prospective patients set realistic expectations and understand the potential outcomes.
Silicone implants are placed to enhance the shape and size of the buttocks. Before and after images show significant improvements in volume, projection, and overall contour. The photos typically highlight changes achieved through careful placement of solid silicone implants. Patients can see how implants improve symmetry and create a fuller, more rounded appearance.
BBL before and after photos showcase results obtained by transferring fat from other parts of the body to the buttocks. The images often emphasize the dual benefit of body contouring and enhanced buttock volume. Patients observe natural-looking improvements in buttock shape and prominence. Successful fat transfer results in a more curvaceous and balanced silhouette.
Before and after photos are crucial for understanding the potential enhancements and visual transformations possible with butt augmentation procedures. They guide patients in making informed decisions and selecting the right approach for their goals.
Dr. Brandon Richland, MD is one of the best, most respected, top Board Certified Plastic Surgeons in Newport Beach, California specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries.
Driven by his passion for medicine, Dr. Richland obtained his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from the prestigious program at Saint Louis University (SLU) School of Medicine in 2013. His exceptional skills were recognized when he received the McGraw Hill / Lange Medical Student Academic Achievement Award, and graduated top of his class with Honors. For his undergraduate degree, he attended University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and graduated with Honors in 2009.
To further enhance his surgical expertise, Dr. Richland completed his Residency in Plastic Surgery at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) from 2013 to 2019 earning the Academic Achievement Award twice during this period. A total of 14 years in dedicated schooling and medical residency.
Dr. Richland is actively involved with healthcare and medical societies, as a Diplomate of the American Board of Plastic Surgery, a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, and the California Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Contact Dr. Richland’s Newport Beach Plastic Surgery office today by calling 949-867-6005, or visit RichlandMD.com to schedule your personalized plastic surgery consultation in Newport Beach.
Cover Image Credit: Puhhha / 123RF.com (Licensed). Photo Illustration by: Dr. Brandon Richland, MD.