Overview of Having Butt Lift Surgery in Newport Beach

A butt lift surgery involves the removal of excess skin and fat to reshape and elevate the buttocks, a process known as gluteal augmentation. People opt for this procedure to achieve a more toned and contoured appearance, especially after significant weight loss.

What Is a Butt Lift (Buttocks)?

A butt lift is a type of cosmetic surgery aimed at improving the buttocks’ appearance by removing loose skin and body fat. This procedure is often sought by individuals who have lost a substantial amount of weight and are left with sagging skin. The surgery can be performed on its own or as part of a lower body lift. It is not the same as a Brazilian Butt Lift, which uses fat grafting techniques to enhance the buttocks by injecting the patient’s own fat.

While the names can be confusing, it’s important to note that a traditional butt lift directly removes excess skin and tightens the area for a firmer, lifted look. In contrast, a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) focuses on adding volume by transferring fat, which may help fill out some loose skin but does not actually remove it. For those with moderate to severe sagging, combining a butt lift with a BBL can sometimes offer the best results. Your surgeon will discuss your goals, skin quality, and available options during your consultation to help determine the most effective approach for your unique needs.

Why Have Butt Lift (Buttocks) Surgery Done in Newport Beach?

Newport Beach, CA, is known for its top-notch plastic surgery clinics and experienced surgeons. Opting for a butt lift in this location ensures access to cutting-edge medical facilities and highly skilled professionals. The area’s warm climate also aids in comfortable post-surgery recovery. Many patients also appreciate the opportunity to recover in a serene, scenic environment.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Butt Lift Surgery?

A good candidate for butt lift surgery is someone in good health with realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes. Typically, those who benefit the most are individuals who have experienced significant weight loss and are left with sagging buttocks. It is crucial for candidates to maintain a stable weight and commit to a healthy lifestyle to ensure lasting results from the procedure.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Brazilian Butt Lift?

An ideal candidate for a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is someone who wishes to enhance the shape and volume of their buttocks, especially if traditional diet and exercise have not produced their desired results. Good candidates typically have enough excess fat in areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, which can then be transferred to the buttocks using liposuction and fat grafting techniques.

This procedure is often well-suited for patients who:

• Are in overall good health and have realistic goals about the surgery’s outcomes.
• Would like to improve the roundness and projection of their buttocks rather than just tightening loose skin.
• Have areas of unwanted fat that can serve as donor sites for the procedure.
• Are at or near their ideal body weight and able to commit to maintaining healthy, stable weight post-surgery.

It’s important for candidates to be nonsmokers or willing to stop smoking, as nicotine can affect healing and fat survival rates. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon can help determine if a BBL is the right choice for your body type, needs, and desired look.

Can I Have a Brazilian Butt Lift If I Have Low Body Fat?

If you have a low body fat percentage, you may not be an ideal candidate for a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL). This is because the procedure relies on harvesting excess fat from areas such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, and then transferring it to enhance the shape and volume of the buttocks. Without sufficient fat stores, there may simply not be enough tissue to achieve the best results. In these cases, alternative procedures (such as butt lift surgery with implants or traditional excisional lifts), might be recommended to help you reach your goals. A board-certified plastic surgeon can assess your unique body type and suggest the most suitable option for you.

Choosing a Butt Lift Surgeon in Newport Beach

Selecting the right plastic surgeon in Newport Beach, California (CA) involves evaluating qualifications, experience, and reputation. Ensuring your surgeon is board-certified and has a proven track record is crucial for a successful outcome.

How Do I Choose a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for Butt Lift (Buttocks) Surgery in Newport Beach?

First, verify that the plastic surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This ensures they have completed rigorous training and meet high standards of excellence.

Additionally, consider membership in the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), which indicates ongoing education and adherence to safety protocols.

Experience in butt lift surgery is vital. Review before and after photos of previous patients to assess their work’s consistency and quality. A surgeon’s experience directly impacts your results.

Consultation Process

A successful consultation process is essential for understanding and preparing for butt lift surgery. Key elements include asking the right questions to the plastic surgeon and knowing what to expect during the consultation.

What Questions Should I Ask My Plastic Surgeon About Butt Lift (Buttocks) Surgery?

When meeting with a plastic surgeon, it’s crucial to be well-prepared with specific questions. First, inquire about their certifications and experience with butt lift surgeries. Ask how many similar procedures they have performed and request to see before-and-after photos of past patients.

Discuss the details of the surgery itself, including the techniques used and why they are suitable for your case. Recovery process, including downtime, pain management, and post-operative care, is also vital.

What Should I Expect During a Consultation for Butt Lift Surgery?

A consultation for butt lift surgery typically begins with a detailed discussion of your goals and expectations. The plastic surgeon will review your medical history and any previous cosmetic procedures. They may also perform a physical examination to assess your suitability for the surgery.

You will likely be given information about the different techniques available and how each one might apply to your situation. The surgeon will explain the step-by-step process of the surgery, from preparation through recovery.

Understanding the Butt Lift (Buttocks) Procedure

The surgical process typically involves the following steps:

1. Anesthesia: The patient is given anesthesia to ensure comfort during the procedure.
2. Incision: The surgeon makes an incision in the targeted area.
3. Removal of excess skin and fat: The surgeon removes excess skin and fat to achieve the desired contour.

To aid in the recovery process, drains may be placed to remove any excess blood or fluid.

What Medical Terms Should I Know About Butt Lift (Buttocks) Surgery?

Before considering a butt lift, it’s helpful to understand several key medical terms.

• Gluteoplasty: Another term for a butt lift, involving the surgical shaping of the gluteal area.
• Liposuction: A technique where excess fat is removed from certain parts of the body.
• Fat Transfer: Used in procedures like the Brazilian Butt Lift, where fat is taken from other areas and injected into the buttocks.
• Anesthesia: Medicine used to keep the patient unconscious and pain-free during surgery.
• Incision: A surgical cut made to access the underlying tissues.

Grasping these terms can make conversations with your plastic surgeon clearer and more productive.

What Types of Butt Lift (Buttocks) Surgeries Are There, Including Fat Grafting?

There are different approaches to buttock enhancement.

• Traditional Butt Lift: Focused on removing excess skin and fat, this procedure tightens and reshapes the buttocks. It’s often chosen by people who have lost significant weight.
• Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL): This BBL surgery involves liposuction to harvest fat from other body areas, which is purified and re-injected into the buttocks for a fuller look. It is a form of gluteal augmentation that uses the patient’s own fat to enhance the gluteal region.
• Buttock Augmentation with Implants: This method uses silicone implants to achieve a more defined shape, often chosen by those seeking significant enhancement.

Each type addresses different aesthetic goals and conditions, so discussing these options with a specialist is crucial.

What Are the Benefits of a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)?

A Brazilian Butt Lift stands out among buttock enhancement options for several compelling reasons. With a BBL, fat is gently harvested from other areas of your body (such as the abdomen, thighs, or flanks) using liposuction, then purified and skillfully injected into the buttocks. This dual benefit leads to a more balanced contour overall.

Key advantages of a BBL include:

• Natural Look and Feel: Because your own fat is used, results tend to look and feel more natural compared to synthetic implants.
• Body Contouring: The liposuction required for a BBL means you also slim the areas where fat is taken, while enhancing your curves.
• Improved Proportions: BBLs are tailored to complement your unique shape, helping achieve a more proportional silhouette and, for many, a more pronounced hourglass figure.
• Minimized Risk of Rejection: Since only your own fat is used, there’s less chance of an adverse reaction versus artificial fillers or implants.
• Immediate and Lasting Results: Many patients notice an immediate improvement, with final, lasting results becoming visible after recovery.

How Does Using Your Own Fat in a Brazilian Butt Lift Impact Safety and Reduce Adverse Reactions?

One of the reasons many individuals, and indeed, plastic surgeons, gravitate toward the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is rooted in the procedure’s use of your body’s own fat. Because the fat is harvested from your own body through liposuction, there’s a much lower risk of allergic reactions or your body rejecting the material, compared to synthetic implants.

This natural approach means you’re less likely to experience issues like infection, foreign body response, or implant shifting, which can sometimes occur with silicone buttock implants. For those especially concerned about biocompatibility and minimizing potential complications, using your own tissue offers peace of mind as well as a smoother, more integrated appearance.

Can a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) Be Combined With Other Procedures to Address Excess Skin?

The Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is primarily designed to enhance volume and contour by transferring fat from other areas of the body to the buttocks. However, while the added volume can improve appearance and even modestly tighten minor sagging, it does not actually remove excess skin.

For individuals dealing with moderate to severe skin laxity, a traditional butt lift may be recommended in addition to a BBL. Combining these procedures can both add fullness and physically remove excess skin, resulting in a smoother, firmer silhouette. During your consultation, your surgeon will assess your anatomy and discuss whether combining a BBL with a surgical lift makes sense to address your specific goals.

How Can Additional Liposuction Enhance Brazilian Butt Lift Results?

Additional liposuction in areas such as the waist, hips, or thighs can significantly improve the outcome of a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL). By removing excess fat from these regions, not only is more fat available for transfer to the buttocks, but the overall body contour can also be enhanced.

When liposuction is performed on the waist or flanks, it creates greater definition and contrast, making the buttocks appear fuller and more lifted. Sculpting the hips or thighs can help achieve a balanced, hourglass shape that further highlights your new curves.

Can a Brazilian Butt Lift Be Combined with Other Procedures?

Yes, a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) can often be combined with additional body contouring procedures for more comprehensive results. Many patients choose to have a BBL performed alongside surgeries such as a tummy tuck or breast augmentation, sometimes as part of what’s commonly called a “mommy makeover.” This approach allows for multiple areas of concern to be addressed during a single surgical session, streamlining both the recovery period and overall transformation.

If you are considering combining these procedures, be sure to discuss your goals and medical history with your plastic surgeon.

Which Areas of the Body Can Be Used as Fat Donor Sites for a Brazilian Butt Lift?

In a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), the fat used for enhancement is typically harvested from areas where you have excess or stubborn fat. Common donor sites include:

• Abdomen: Fat is often collected from the belly, helping to contour the waistline.
• Hips and Flanks (“Love Handles”): These are popular sites, as slimming these areas can further accentuate your new curves.
• Thighs (Inner or Outer): Removing fat from the thighs can improve your overall leg contour in addition to enhancing the buttocks.
• Lower Back: Fat from this region can be used while giving you a more defined lower back and buttock junction.

Harvesting fat from these locations not only provides the material for buttock augmentation but also offers additional body sculpting benefits. Your surgeon will assess which donor sites are best suited to your individual needs and aesthetic goals.

Can You Have Multiple Sessions of Augmentation for a Brazilian Butt Lift?

Yes, it is possible to undergo multiple sessions of augmentation for a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL). In some cases, a single session may not provide the desired fullness or shape, especially if there is limited fat available for transfer from other parts of the body. During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will assess both your goals and the amount of harvestable fat to determine if you may benefit from more than one procedure.

Some patients find that staged treatments offer better long-term results. Multiple BBL sessions can ensure a gradual, natural-looking enhancement while minimizing risk. Additional liposuction may also be performed during later sessions, not just to collect more fat for transfer, but also to further refine your silhouette, particularly around the waist, hips, or thighs.

What Are the Surgical Steps of a Butt Lift (Buttocks) Procedure?

The surgical process for a butt lift typically includes several steps.

1. Anesthesia Administration: The patient is administered anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the surgery.
2. Incision Making: Small incisions are made, generally along the natural creases of the buttocks, to minimize visible scarring.
3. Tissue Removal and Shaping: Excess skin and fat are removed, and underlying tissues are repositioned to create a lifted appearance.
4. Closing the Incisions: Sutures are used to close the incisions, sometimes reinforced with medical adhesive or tape to support healing.

Understanding these steps can help set realistic expectations for those considering this procedure.

Cost of Newport Beach Butt Lift (Buttocks) Surgery in California

Butt lift surgery involves different procedures, each with its own cost range based on factors like geographic location and the surgeon’s experience. Costs can vary significantly across different types of butt lift surgeries. The Brazilian butt lift cost, for instance, can be influenced by the type of procedure, the degree of enhancement desired, and the quality and experience of the plastic surgeon performing the procedure.

How Much Does a Butt Lift (Buttocks) Cost?

The cost of butt lift (buttocks) surgery in Newport Beach, CA averages around $7,875. Prices can range from $3,735 to $19,000.

In contrast, a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) involves liposuction and fat transfer to enhance curves and volume. The average cost for a BBL is approximately $6,700, but it can range from $3,700 to $15,900.

Insurance Coverage

Insurance coverage encompasses various types of insurance, each designed to manage different risks. Policies like auto, life, and homeowner’s insurance cater to specific needs, and the coverage limits are crucial for determining the extent of protection afforded by an insurance policy.

Is a Butt Lift (Buttocks) Covered by Insurance?

Cosmetic surgeries like a butt lift are generally not covered by insurance. These procedures are often classified as elective, meaning they are done for aesthetic purposes rather than medical necessity. Insurance companies typically exclude elective surgeries from coverage due to their non-essential nature.

There are exceptions where insurance might provide coverage. If a butt lift is deemed medically necessary, like correct a deformity or to address complications from a previous medical condition.

Consulting with the insurance company beforehand is essential to understand the specifics of coverage and any potential out-of-pocket expenses. Checking the policy details can offer guidance on what is needed for a cosmetic surgery claim to be approved.

Non-Surgical Alternatives

Non-surgical alternatives for a butt lift offer significant benefits, such as reduced recovery time and fewer risks compared to surgical methods. These methods focus on lifting, firming, and enhancing the buttocks through various techniques.

What Non-Surgical Alternatives Are There to a Butt Lift (Buttocks)?

Emsculpt: This technique uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy to induce muscle contractions, helping to tone and build muscles in the buttocks. Sessions are quick, typically lasting around 30 minutes, and there is no downtime.

Radiofrequency (RF) Therapy: This treatment uses RF energy to heat the skin tissues, stimulating collagen production. This can result in tighter, firmer skin over time. Multiple sessions may be necessary for optimal results.

CoolSculpting: Also known as cryolipolysis, this method involves freezing fat cells, which are then naturally eliminated by the body. It’s a targeted approach, ideal for reducing small fat deposits around the buttocks to improve contour.

Dermal Fillers: Products like Sculptra can be injected into the buttocks to add volume and shape. These fillers stimulate collagen production and provide a non-invasive way to achieve a fuller look. Multiple sessions are often required to maintain results.

Vacuum Therapy: This involves using suction cups to stimulate muscles, break down cellulite, and improve blood flow to the area. While results are temporary, they can provide a noticeable lift for special occasions.

Implementing these non-surgical techniques can be a practical and less invasive means of achieving desired aesthetic goals related to buttock enhancement and contouring.

Pros and Cons

Butt lift surgery has many aspects to consider, involving both benefits and potential downsides. It’s important to understand both sides to make an informed decision.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Butt Lift (Buttocks) Surgery?

Benefits:

Butt lift surgery enhances body contours by removing excess skin and fat. Liposuction is often part of the process, ensuring a smoother appearance. Patients can expect a more toned physique and better-fitting clothes. Fat transfer can also add volume in the right places, creating natural-looking results.

Drawbacks:

Recovery can be lengthy, involving discomfort and swelling. Risks include infection, scarring, and anesthesia-related issues. Not everyone qualifies as an ideal candidate, especially those with medical conditions. It’s also worth noting that maintaining results requires a healthy lifestyle.

Side Effects, Risks and Complications

When considering butt lift surgery, it is crucial to be aware of the possible side effects, risks, and potential complications associated with the procedure. This section outlines the most important aspects to keep in mind.

Are There Side Effects, Risks, or Complications of Butt Lift (Buttocks) Surgery?

Butt lift surgery, like any surgical procedure, comes with inherent side effects and potential risks. Common side effects include pain, swelling, and bruising at the surgical site. These are typically temporary and subside with proper post-operative care.

Anesthesia risks are always a concern. These can range from mild reactions like dizziness to more severe complications, such as breathing problems or an allergic reaction.

Infections can occur if the surgical site is not properly cared for. Proper hygiene and following post-operative instructions are key to minimizing this risk.

Bleeding is another risk, particularly in the days following surgery. It’s important to monitor for excessive bleeding, which may require medical intervention.

Scarring is inevitable with any surgical procedure. While efforts are made to minimize scarring, it’s important to have realistic expectations about the final aesthetic results.

Fat embolism is a rare but severe complication where fat enters the bloodstream and can cause blockages. This requires immediate medical attention and can be life-threatening.

Recovery includes a period of restricted activity to allow healing. Following all medical advice during this time is crucial for achieving the best outcome.

Preparation for Surgery

When preparing for surgery, it is crucial to focus on health, diet, medication, and lifestyle changes to ensure a smooth procedure and recovery. Specific steps depend on the type of surgery, like a butt lift, which involves additional considerations.

How Should I Prepare for a Butt Lift (Buttocks)?

Patients should quit smoking at least four weeks before surgery to reduce the risk of complications and promote better healing. Smoking can increase the risk of infection and slow recovery time.

Eating a cleaner diet is recommended. Cohesive meals rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains can ensure the body is well-nourished and prepared for surgery. Hydration is equally important, so drinking plenty of fluids is advised.

Patients must follow their doctor’s advice on medication usage. This includes possibly stopping certain medications that might interfere with surgery or recovery, such as blood thinners. Always adhere strictly to medical instructions regarding prescription drugs.

Butt Lift (Buttocks) Recovery Process

Recovery from a butt lift involves several important stages, including managing pain and swelling, following dietary guidelines, and avoiding certain activities to ensure optimal healing.

How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Butt Lift (Buttocks)?

Recovery typically begins with the most intense phases of healing within the first two weeks. Pain and swelling are common during this time, and medications are usually prescribed to manage discomfort. Patients may also experience some numbness in the affected areas.

After the initial period, swelling starts to decrease, and bruising may also subside. Most individuals can slowly resume light activities within two to three weeks. It’s crucial to avoid sitting directly on the buttocks for at least eight weeks to prevent affecting the shape and results of the surgery.

A healthy diet is also important during recovery to provide the necessary nutrients for healing. Final results can often be seen after several months, as the body continues to adjust and swelling completely resolves.

Duration of Butt Lift (Buttocks) Results

The duration of butt lift results can vary significantly based on several factors, including the surgical technique and individual lifestyle choices. Patients often see long-lasting effects, but their longevity depends on how one maintains their health and weight.

How Long Does a Butt Lift (Buttocks) Last?

A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) usually offers results that can last for several years. For many, the effects might persist for a decade or longer if they maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle.

Aging naturally impacts the results over time as skin loses its elasticity. Significant weight gain or loss can also alter the shape and size of the buttocks. Maintaining a consistent weight and engaging in regular exercise are essential.

Individual factors like metabolism and how one’s body stores fat can influence the longevity of a butt lift. Regular follow-ups with a surgeon can help manage expectations and address any changes in appearance.

Expected Results

Patients undergoing butt lift surgery can expect more volume, enhanced tone, and improved body contours. Understanding the potential results can help set realistic expectations and improve satisfaction with the procedure.

What Results Can I Expect After I Have Butt Lift (Buttocks) Surgery?

After a butt lift surgery, patients typically notice an increase in volume and a more lifted appearance of the buttocks. This change contributes to a more aesthetically pleasing silhouette.

Patients often experience improved muscle tone in the buttock area. This increased firmness is a common and desired result of the surgery, giving the buttocks a more toned appearance.

Before and after photos provided by the surgeon can help set realistic expectations. These images illustrate the differences in body contours and overall appearance, helping patients visualize potential outcomes.

Before & After Photos

Reviewing butt lift before and after patient photos can help prospective patients understand the potential results and set realistic expectations. It also provides visual evidence of the surgeon’s expertise and the typical outcomes of the procedure.

Butt Lift (Buttocks) Before & After (B&A) Photos

Examining before and after photos from butt lift surgeries provides insight into the variety of results patients have experienced. Patients often share these images to showcase their transformations, focusing on improvements in shape and size.

On platforms like RealSelf, these photos are often shared by real doctors and plastic surgeons, with consent from patients for online use. Each photo set typically includes images taken from different angles for a comprehensive view of the results.

Viewing a range of patient photos can aid in identifying reliable surgeons and finding the desired aesthetic outcome. It’s crucial to observe consistent, high-quality results across multiple cases to ensure the surgeon’s reliability.

What Do Patient Reviews and Testimonials Say About Their Brazilian Butt Lift Experience?

Patient feedback on Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedures highlights a combination of satisfaction with results and the importance of surgeon expertise. Many individuals share their stories on platforms like RealSelf and Yelp, offering valuable insight into what future patients might expect.

Common Themes in BBL Reviews

• Natural-Looking Improvements: Most patients report being happy with their enhanced curves, especially when their goals are discussed and understood by the surgeon. Many are pleased with achieving a “natural shaping” rather than an exaggerated look.
• Attentive Surgeon Care: A recurring positive note is about surgeons who take the time to listen to each patient’s goals, answer questions, and provide support throughout the process.
• Comprehensive Support Staff: Patients often single out the helpfulness of clinic staff, mentioning how nurses, consultants, and administrative teams help them feel comfortable and supported during visits and follow-ups.
• Recovery and Communication: Those who express the highest satisfaction frequently mention clear post-operative instructions and regular check-ins from their surgeon. Easy communication, is widely appreciated.
• Boost in Confidence: For many, a BBL delivers not just physical transformation but also renewed body confidence. Patients mention feeling more comfortable in clothing and enjoying a silhouette that matches their personal aesthetic.

Considerations and Cautions

• Recovery Experiences: While most testimonials are positive, some discuss the realities of recovery, such as swelling, the need for aftercare facilities, and waiting several weeks to see final results. Transparency about recovery helps set realistic expectations.
• Facility Feedback: Some reviews note experiences at recovery centers, from excellent service to occasional concerns around medication handling. These details highlight the importance of choosing accredited aftercare providers.

Why Reviews Matter

Reading patient testimonials and viewing before-and-after photos on third-party sites are useful steps when researching providers. These firsthand accounts illustrate not just the possible results but also the quality of patient care and support throughout the journey.

In summary, patient voices indicate that choosing a skilled, communicative surgeon and maintaining realistic expectations can make all the difference in a positive BBL experience.

About the Author

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: 3kstudio / 123RF.com (Licensed). Photo Illustration by: Dr. Brandon Richland, MD.