Buttock Lift Surgery: Firm Solution for Sagging
Massive weight loss (especially after bariatric surgery), aging, or genetic factors can cause significant volume loss and, most importantly, skin sagging in the buttock region. Once full buttocks may give way to a flattened, droopy, and loose appearance. This situation not only creates aesthetic dissatisfaction but also makes it difficult for clothes to fit properly and can negatively impact self-confidence. Unfortunately, exercise or diet cannot eliminate this excess sagging skin. It is precisely at this point that Buttock Lift Surgery (internationally known as Butt Lift) comes into play, focusing on the problem of buttock sagging and re-tightening the area. Contrary to popular belief, this operation is entirely different from the BBL (Buttock Fat Grafting) surgery, which adds volume to the buttocks.
The primary goal of a butt lift is to surgically remove excess and sagging skin, lift the underlying tissues upwards, and provide the buttocks with a lifted, firmer, and more youthful contour. At his clinic in Istanbul, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram safely performs this specialized body contouring surgery using the technique most suitable for your anatomical needs and expectations.
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What is Buttock Lift Surgery (Gluteal Lift)?
Buttock lift surgery (medically termed Gluteal Lift) is a procedure involving the surgical removal of excess skin from the hip and buttock region, followed by tightening and securing the remaining skin and underlying tissues in a higher position. This operation is a buttock tightening and shaping procedure; its main objective is to correct sagging tissue.
Are Buttock Lift, BBL, and Buttock Implants Different Surgical Procedures?
Although these three procedures are often confused, they serve entirely different purposes:
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Buttock Lift: Its purpose is to remove sagging skin and lift the buttocks. It does not add volume. Generally ideal for those with sagging after massive weight loss. A potential disadvantage is that it can result in a lifted but flat buttock structure if performed alone.
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Buttock Lift with Autologous Tissue Augmentation: This is the method often preferred by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram. In this technique, the tissues that would typically be removed to lift the buttock are instead preserved, prepared, and used to shape and add volume to the buttocks (autologous augmentation).
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BBL (Buttock Fat Grafting): Its purpose is to add volume and fullness to the buttocks. The patient's own fat is used. It does not remove sagging skin. Generally ideal for those lacking volume.
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Buttock Implants: Its purpose is to add volume and significant projection (prominence) to the buttocks. Silicone prostheses are used. It does not remove sagging skin. Generally ideal for lean patients lacking sufficient fat for BBL. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram will determine the most appropriate procedure for you during the consultation. Sometimes, in patients with both sagging and volume loss, a Buttock Lift can be combined with Autologous Tissue Augmentation or Fat Injection (BBL).
Who is a Good Candidate for Buttock Lift Surgery?
Buttock lift surgery is particularly suitable for individuals troubled by the following conditions:
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Significant Sagging After Massive Weight Loss: Individuals who have lost a large amount of weight through bariatric surgery (Post Bariatric Surgery) or diet and have substantial excess skin and sagging in the buttock region are the most ideal candidates.
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Age-Related Laxity: Those experiencing significant buttock sagging due to loss of skin elasticity with age.
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Stable Weight: Achieving and maintaining a stable ideal weight for at least 6-12 months before surgery is crucial for obtaining the best and most lasting results.
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Good General Health: Individuals without serious medical conditions precluding surgery and who do not smoke (or can quit).
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Realistic Expectations (Regarding Scars): Patients who understand that this surgery inevitably leaves permanent and noticeable scars but accept that the resulting firm and lifted contour outweighs the presence of the scar.
Buttock Lift Surgery Techniques and Scars
The most critical element of buttock lift surgery is the location of the incision (and thus the resulting scar) used to remove excess skin. The scar is planned according to the degree and location of the sagging.
Superior Buttock Lift
This is the most commonly used technique. It particularly targets sagging in the upper part of the buttocks and the lower back area.
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Incision Location: The incision is typically made in a horizontal "gull-wing" shape just below the lower back, extending from one hip bone to the other. This incision is planned to be hidden within the bikini or underwear line.
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Procedure: Through this incision, the excess skin from the upper buttock area is removed, often in an elliptical shape. If autologous tissue augmentation is planned, this tissue is not removed but is used to augment the buttocks. A pocket is prepared towards the middle and lower part of the buttock to place this autogenous tissue. The buttock tissue is lifted upwards and secured. The incision is closed with aesthetic sutures.
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Advantage: Effectively lifts the buttocks and shapes the waistline. The scar can be easily concealed under clothing.
Inferior Buttock Lift
A less frequently preferred technique. It targets sagging in the lower part of the buttocks (the "banana roll" area). The incision is placed in the crease under the buttock. However, concealing this scar can be more challenging.
Combination with Circumferential Body Lift (360 Body Lift)
Since buttock sagging often occurs alongside sagging in the abdomen and waist areas, a Buttock Lift is frequently performed as part of a 360 Body Lift operation. In this case, the incision encircles the entire waistline (circumferential). This allows for simultaneous tightening of the abdomen, slimming of the waist, and lifting of the buttocks. This is the most comprehensive and effective solution, especially for post bariatric surgery patients.
Buttock Lift Surgery Recovery Process
A buttock lift is a comprehensive body contouring surgery, and the recovery process requires diligent care.
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First Week: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and its duration varies depending on the technique and additional procedures. A hospital stay of usually 2 nights is necessary. Drains may be placed to remove accumulating fluid. Pain, swelling, and bruising are significant during this period and are managed with medication. Mobility is limited.
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Sitting and Lying: It is recommended to avoid sitting directly on the buttocks or to use special pillows for the first 2-3 weeks post-surgery. This reduces tension on the incision line and aids healing. Lying prone (face down) or on the side is preferred.
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Compression Garment: Wearing a special medical compression garment for 6-8 weeks post-surgery is crucial for reducing swelling, helping the skin adapt to the new contour, and supporting healing.
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Recovery Timeline: Most patients can return to desk work within 2-3 weeks. Light exercises can be started after 6-8 weeks with doctor's approval. Seeing the final result (contour settling and scar maturation) may take 6 months to 1 year.
Buttock Lift Surgery Costs 2025
Buttock lift surgery costs vary based on the extent of the technique (superior lift only, 360 Body Lift, etc.), whether additional procedures like liposuction or fat grafting are included, the surgeon's experience, and the standards of the hospital where the surgery is performed. Precise, personalized cost information can only be determined after a detailed examination with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buttock Lift Surgery
Will buttock lift scars be very noticeable?
Yes, buttock lift surgery leaves noticeable and permanent scars. This is inherent to the operation. However, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yalçın Bayram plans the incisions in concealable areas like the bikini or underwear line. Although the scars fade over time (1-2 years) becoming less prominent, they do not disappear completely. Patients generally state that the firm, lifted buttock and improved body contour they achieve make the scars an acceptable trade-off. Many patients opt for tattoos in this area to camouflage the scars while also achieving an aesthetic look.
Does buttock lift surgery also add volume to the buttocks?
No, the primary goal of this surgery is not to add volume. On the contrary, it only removes sagging skin and some underlying loose tissue. If the patient also has volume deficiency, fat grafting (BBL) or the preferred autologous tissue augmentation method can be combined with the buttock lift either in the same session or a later one.
How long should I wear the compression garment after butt lift surgery?
Wearing the compression garment is a vital part of recovery and is generally recommended for 6 to 8 weeks post-surgery.
Is BBL or Buttock Lift more suitable for me?
If your main concern is that your buttocks are small or flat and you have sufficient fat elsewhere, BBL is more suitable. If your main concern is sagging and loose skin on your buttocks after massive weight loss or aging, Buttock Lift Surgery is the correct option.
What are the risks of buttock lift surgery?
Like any major surgery, it carries general risks such as infection, bleeding, and anesthesia risks. Specific risks for buttock lift include wide scarring (scar hypertrophy), delayed wound healing or wound healing problems, seroma (fluid collection), and asymmetry. The risk of wound healing issues is higher, especially in smokers and post bariatric surgery patients.
When can I sit after buttock lift surgery?
It is generally recommended to avoid sitting directly on the buttocks or use special pillows for the first 2-3 weeks. Your doctor will provide specific instructions.
