Buttock Reduction

Buttock Reduction, colloquially termed as gluteoplasty, constitutes a meticulous surgical intervention nestled within the realm of aesthetic and reparative surgery. Spearheaded by an adept cosmetic surgeon, this operation endeavors to attenuate the dimensions and configuration of the posterior by extirpating surplus adipose tissue and dermis in the vicinity. A multitude of individuals gravitate towards Buttock Reduction surgery to enhance their bodily silhouette and tackle predicaments engendered by weight fluctuations, senescence, or hereditary factors. (1) (2)

As delineated in the 2020 Aesthetic Surgery Metrics Report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons¹, a total of 2,872 gluteal elevation operations materialized in 2020, marking a 27% decrement compared to 2019. In stark contrast, an amplification of 112% transpired since the turn of the millennium, with a mere 1,356 gluteal elevation procedures documented during that epoch. (3)

What is a Buttock Reduction?

A surgical technique called buttock reduction tries to improve the buttocks' shape and proportion while reducing their size and volume. It is excellent for people who want to rectify asymmetry or disproportion as well as those who have naturally large buttocks, extra fat deposits in the gluteal area, or both. 

Excess skin, fat, and tissue are removed during the surgery to produce a more symmetrical and harmonious appearance. By reducing the size of the buttocks, people can attain the body proportions they want, get better clothing fits, feel better physically, and have more self-confidence.

What is the Procedure to Reduce Buttocks?

To guarantee the patient's comfort throughout the process, buttock reduction surgery is often carried out under general anaesthesia. Depending on the individual's distinct anatomy, the desired result, and the surgeon's experience, a different specific approach may be employed. The general steps in buttock reduction are as follows:

• The surgeon skillfully makes incisions to reduce obvious scarring in regions that are less noticeable, such as the natural buttock creases or around the bikini line.
• Fat Removal: Using liposuction methods through the incisions, the physician skillfully eliminates extra fat deposits. The size and volume of the buttocks are both decreased by this process.
• Tissue excision: The surgeon might occasionally need to cut away extra skin and tissue to attain the correct contour and shape. When dealing with severe weight loss or skin laxity, this phase is very crucial.
• Muscle Tightening: The surgeon may tighten the underlying muscles to give the buttocks a firmer and more defined appearance in order to improve the overall shape of the buttocks.
• Closing of Incisions: After any necessary changes have been made, the incisions are painstakingly stitched shut. To stabilise the incisions during the first healing phase, the surgeon may also employ surgical adhesives or tapes.

Buttock Reduction Risks and Side Effects

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, buttock reduction is accompanied by several potential risks that individuals must carefully consider alongside professional guidance before undergoing the procedure.

Some of the notable risks include:

• Hazards linked to anesthesia application.
• Possible asymmetry post-surgery.
• Occurrence of bleeding or hematoma.
• Risks involving deep vein thrombosis, as well as cardiac and pulmonary complications.
• The potential death of fatty tissues beneath the skin.
• Collection of fluid or seroma in the operated area.
• The potential development of an infection.
• A chance of altered skin sensations or numbness.
• Persistent pain in the operated area.
• Complications associated with wound healing.
• Potential necessity for further revision surgeries.
• Possibility of recurring skin looseness.
• Prolonged swelling or skin discoloration.
• Risk of skin loss or spontaneous surfacing of sutures, demanding removal due to irritation or visibility.

Am I a Good Buttock Reduction Candidate?

Surgery to reduce the buttocks is appropriate for those who:

• Have buttocks that are excessively big compared to the rest of their body.
• A physical pain or limits as a result of their buttocks' size or shape.
• Desire a lower body shape that is more proportionate and balanced.
• Understand the potential dangers and advantages of the surgery, and have reasonable expectations.

It is crucial for prospective patients to speak with a licenced plastic surgeon who can analyse their unique needs, consider their medical background, and go over the expected results of the treatment. The surgeon will decide whether buttock reduction is the best option after taking into account aspects including skin elasticity, body shape, and personal goals.

Post-Procedure

The patient will be given detailed post-operative care instructions to achieve the best possible healing after buttock reduction surgery. Here are a few significant elements of the healing process:

• Recovery and rest: The initial phase of recovery is usually marked by rest and light exercise. To reduce pressure on the surgery site, the patient might need to avoid sitting directly on the buttocks.
• Pain management: To ease any discomfort during the initial phases of recovery, the surgeon may prescribe pain medication. It is crucial to take the recommended medications as directed and notify the surgeon of any unexpected symptoms or concerns.
• Compression Garments: Wearing compression clothing is frequently advised to reduce swelling, offer support, and encourage healthy recovery. Wearing these clothes should follow the surgeon's instructions.

Regular follow-up consultations will be made to check on the patient's progress with healing, remove sutures as necessary, and address any issues or queries they may have.

Results

The results of the buttock reduction surgery will noticeably improve as the healing process moves on. While some changes will be noticeable right away following the surgery, it's vital to remember that it will take time and patience to see the full extent of the ultimate results.

Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are frequent in the early phases. These brief adverse effects, however, will progressively go away over the next weeks. The patient will notice a decrease in swelling, which will reveal the buttocks' actual form and contour.

The patient will observe a more proportionate and balanced lower body contour after a few weeks. The buttocks will look more cosmetically attractive, firmer, and elevated. As the patient enjoys their enhanced body proportions, clothing will fit better and they will feel more confident.

It's vital to remember that the healing process takes several months even though the immediate gains are encouraging. The remaining swelling will eventually go down, making the results of the buttock reduction operation visible. To achieve the greatest outcomes and retain the long-term advantages of the surgery, it is crucial to adhere to the post-operative care instructions given by the surgeon.

The patient should be aware that everyone's healing process is different and that there is no set timeframe for getting the desired results.

To obtain a more proportionate and balanced appearance, people who want to reduce the size, reshape, and contour of their buttocks can benefit from buttock reduction surgery. This surgical treatment can provide a lower body contour that is more harmonious by removing extra skin, tissue, and fat. 

People can make educated decisions and have realistic expectations about the results of buttock reduction surgery by understanding the definition and general overview of the procedure, the ideal candidates, the healing process after surgery, and when the results become visible.