It consists of the implantation of silicone prostheses into the gluteus maximus muscle, indicated for patients with small buttocks or that have experienced, after weight loss, a great volume reduction without considerable ptosis (dropping). Besides increasing the buttocks’ volume, the surgery also improves consistency and shape.
Each person has different characteristics regarding buttocks’ volume, consistency and shape. Therefore, the ideal option of gluteal prosthesis observes these criteria, based on a thorough examination of the region and the patient’s biotype.
Moreover, the harmony between the ideal buttocks’ volume and trunk size should be preserved when planning the surgery.
The gluteal implants are designed to resist pressure (sitting, running, lying, etc.) and are therefore stronger and thicker than breast implants.
They also have a higher consistency than the normal buttocks’ tissue. Hence, a certain consistency increase is usual after implanting gluteal prostheses.
The scars
This surgery allows us to position the scar quite under cover, in the intergluteal fold (natural fold between the buttocks). It is usually small and of good quality, what, additionally to the hidden location, makes it discrete and almost imperceptible. The scar will be as small as possible, usually about 2.75 in.
Postoperative period
The first days after a gluteoplasty is usually somewhat painful, especially the first 48 hours, due to the muscle distension. The pain is controlled through painkillers and anti-inflammatories and fades away gradually.
Suction drains can be used to prevent accumulating secretions around the gluteal implants, being removed usually on the 2nd or 3rd postoperative day.
During the first 2 months, most swelling disappears and scarring gains strength, so that this is the period of greatest changes in the buttocks shape.
The gluteoplasty may involve some complications. Though not frequent, it is worth mentioning: hematoma, infection, prothesis extrusion, or capsular retraction built around the prothesis.
Although the immediate result is very good (70%), only in the late period (after 6 months) the buttocks will reach their final form.
After a gluteoplasty, injections should nevermore be applied in the gluteal region.
Is there risk of a gluteal implant rupture?
The gluteal implants are made of quite resistant and stretchable material. A trauma had to be extremely severe to rupture them. In case of traumas, the implants would even help preventing further pelvis injury by absorbing the impact. In case of a rupture, the implants can be replaced through the original scar.
What is the capsular retraction?
It is an exaggerated retraction of the normal fibrous capsule (that forms around the implant), leading to buttocks hardening, perceptible by palpation.
The capsular retraction is an atypical reaction of the patient’s body due to the presence of the silicone implants and does not represent medical malpractice.
By occurrence, the implants can and shall be withdrawn.
Later, patient and surgeon may consider re-implanting other prostheses by means of a different approach.
Nowadays, the rates of capsular retractions have decreased considerably due to the advent of technical innovations in plastic surgery.
Is it necessary to replace gluteal implants from time to time? How often?
The implants wear out over time. Therefore, a regular replacement is advisable. Although, due to the great technological development of materials used, the implants’ wear average about 30 years.