What Is a Butt Lift?

A butt lift (gluteoplasty) is a plastic surgery procedure in which the skin and muscles of the buttocks are lifted, tightened and reshaped, resulting in an improved contour of the buttocks, says Doctor Ricardo Rodriguez, board certified plastic surgeon. Butt lift procedures are desired by patients who wish to achieve a more youthful and appealing buttocks.

Procedure

• A butt lift can either be performed by tightening the skin around the buttocks or by injecting fat or implants to improve the contour of the buttocks, Dr. Rodriguez says.

Cost

• Dr. Rodriguez estimates that most butt lifts range in cost from $5,000 to much more, depending on the needs of the patient and the method used.

Recovery

• Doctor Rodriguez advises patients to avoid sitting for one week during recovery. In some cases, a special type of undergarment is worn to provide additional support and to help with swelling. Patients can return to work after two weeks as long as their job does not involve sitting for extended periods.

Time Frame

• Swelling should subside within four to six weeks, says SmartPlasticSurgery.com. It may take up to a year or more for final results to be realized as muscles, fat and skin settle into place.

Risk

• According to SmartPlasticSurgery.com, a butt lift poses the same risks as any other surgical procedure, including: anesthesia risks, unwanted scarring, excessive bleeding, persistent pain and change in skin sensation.