Gluteal augmentation with injectable fillers

Abstract

Background: The search for prominent buttocks has increased in the last years leading to the popularization of the Brazilian Butt Lift surgery. Minimally invasive procedures using fillers can also be used for gluteal augmentation; however, there is controversy regarding the use of large volumes of fillers. The aim of this chapter is to present techniques of gluteal augmentation using different injectable fillers, the results, and potential complications. Methods: Retrospective chart review from a single plastic surgeon private clinic. Filler selection, patient selection, volume of fillers, marking, technique, results, and post-procedural care are reviewed and discussed. Results: The author's experience with gluteal augmentation using polymethylmethacrylate consists of 431 patients with an average of 219 cc of filler injected per buttock. Calcium hydroxyapatite was injected in 32 patients with an average of 104 cc per buttock, 14 patients received an average of 66 cc of hyaluronic acid per buttock, and 12 patients received an average of 25 cc of poly-L-lactic acid per buttock. Complications were palpable noninflammatory nodules (8.4%), seroma (1.6%), striae distensae (1.4%), temporary sciatic neuropraxia (1.2%), pyramidal syndrome (0.6%), skin necrosis (0.2%), and deep venous thrombosis (0.2%). The total complication rate was 14.2% and was higher in patients who received permanent fillers. Conclusions: Gluteal augmentation with fillers presents an acceptable complication rate and produces satisfactory results.