Buttock Implants in Delafield
Lasting projection where fat alone falls short.
Buttock implants are solid silicone prostheses surgically placed within or on top of the gluteus maximus muscle to enhance buttock shape, size, and projection. This procedure is often considered for patients who lack sufficient body fat for autologous fat grafting (Brazilian butt lift) and desire permanent gluteal augmentation with predictable, long-lasting results.
At a Glance
- A systematic review found the overall complication rate for silicone buttock implants is approximately 21.6%, compared to 9.9% for autologous fat grafting[4]
- Gluteal implants are made of solid silicone elastomer, which differs from gel-filled breast implants and is designed to withstand compressive forces[1]
- Wound dehiscence is the most commonly reported complication following gluteal implant surgery, occurring in approximately 9.6% of cases[3]
Overview
Gluteal augmentation with implants involves the surgical placement of solid silicone devices designed specifically for the buttock region. Unlike breast implants, gluteal implants are made of solid, semi-soft silicone elastomer rather than gel or saline, which makes them more resistant to rupture and better suited to withstand the compressive forces of sitting and movement.
This procedure is typically recommended for individuals with minimal body fat who are not candidates for fat grafting. Implant placement may be intramuscular (within the gluteus maximus), subfascial (beneath the fascia but above the muscle), or submuscular (beneath the muscle), with intramuscular placement being the most commonly used technique.
Results of buttock implant surgery are considered permanent, though the implants may require replacement or revision over time. Full recovery and tissue integration typically takes approximately 3 to 6 months, during which the gluteal tissues relax and the implants settle into their final position.
What to expect
- Preoperative consultation including physical examination, body measurements, and discussion of implant size, shape, and placement options
- Medical clearance and preoperative laboratory testing
- General anesthesia is administered
- An incision of approximately 5 to 8 centimeters is made in the intergluteal crease (between the buttocks)
- A pocket is carefully dissected within or around the gluteus maximus muscle on each side
- The appropriately sized solid silicone implant is inserted into each pocket
- Symmetry and positioning are assessed and adjusted
- The incision is closed in layers with sutures
- Compression garments are applied to reduce swelling and support healing
- The patient is positioned prone or on the side during initial recovery
How a buttock implants works
- A solid silicone implant specifically designed for the gluteal region is selected based on the patient's anatomy and desired outcome. Implant sizes and shapes vary to accommodate different body types.
- The surgeon creates a pocket within or around the gluteus maximus muscle through an incision typically placed in the intergluteal crease to minimize visible scarring. The pocket location (intramuscular, subfascial, or submuscular) is chosen based on tissue coverage and aesthetic goals.
- The implant is carefully inserted into the prepared pocket and positioned symmetrically. The muscle and overlying tissues provide coverage and help maintain a natural contour.
- Over the following months, the body forms a capsule of scar tissue around the implant, which helps stabilize its position. Tissue integration and final settling of the implant typically takes 3 to 6 months.
When it's recommended
- Patients with insufficient body fat for autologous fat grafting
- Congenital or acquired gluteal asymmetry
- Desire for permanent buttock augmentation with predictable volume
- Patients who have previously undergone fat grafting with inadequate results
- Correction of contour deformities following weight loss or trauma
Is a buttock implants right for you?
Reach out to learn more from Dr. Lucas Boehm.
Recovery & aftercare
- Initial recovery requires 2 to 3 weeks away from work and normal activities
- Sitting is restricted or modified with a special cushion for approximately 2 to 3 weeks following surgery
- Compression garments are typically worn for 4 to 6 weeks
- Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are avoided for 6 to 8 weeks
- Full tissue healing and implant settling may take 3 to 6 months
- Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor healing and implant position
Alternatives
- Brazilian butt lift (autologous fat grafting to the buttocks)
- Composite buttock augmentation (implants combined with fat grafting)
- Sculptra injections for modest volume enhancement
- Exercise and strength training for natural gluteal development
Related treatments
Frequently Asked Questions
- Buttock implants are solid silicone prostheses surgically placed within or around the gluteus maximus muscle to enhance buttock shape and size. They are designed specifically for the gluteal region and differ from breast implants in their solid construction.
- The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, so patients do not feel pain during the procedure. Post-operative discomfort is managed with prescribed pain medication. Most patients report significant improvement in comfort within 2 to 3 weeks.
- Buttock implants have an established safety profile when performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. As with any surgery, there are risks involved. Careful patient selection and surgical technique can help minimize complications.
- Buttock implants are considered permanent and may last 10 years or more. However, some patients may require revision surgery over time due to implant displacement, capsular contracture, or changes in body shape.
- Buttock implants use solid silicone prostheses for augmentation, while a Brazilian butt lift uses the patient's own fat harvested via liposuction. Implants are typically preferred for patients with insufficient body fat for fat grafting. Each approach has different risk profiles and recovery timelines.
- Patients with active infections, bleeding disorders, conditions affecting wound healing, or unrealistic expectations may not be suitable candidates. A thorough consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon can help determine candidacy.
Buttock Implants risks & candidacy
Who should avoid this
- Active infection in the gluteal or sacral region
- Uncontrolled bleeding disorders or anticoagulation therapy
- Body mass index outside the range considered safe for general anesthesia
- Unrealistic expectations regarding surgical outcomes
- History of poor wound healing or keloid formation in the gluteal area
- Pregnancy or planned pregnancy in the near term
- Immunocompromised state or conditions affecting wound healing
Possible risks
- Wound dehiscence (separation of the surgical incision)
- Seroma (fluid accumulation around the implant)
- Infection requiring antibiotic treatment or implant removal
- Capsular contracture (hardening of scar tissue around the implant)
- Implant malposition or displacement
- Asymmetry between the two sides
- Sciatic nerve irritation or transient paresthesias
- Chronic pain or discomfort, particularly when sitting
- Need for revision surgery or implant replacement
- Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism (general surgical risk)
Your surgeon
Care that respects what makes you, you.
Dr. Lucas Boehm is a Wisconsin native, board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon and the founder of Consona Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. His practice is dedicated exclusively to aesthetic surgery of the face, nose, breast, and body, with particular expertise in deep plane facelifts, rhinoplasty, and aesthetic breast surgery. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and completed his plastic surgery residency there as well. He then pursued an Aesthetic Society-endorsed fellowship in aesthetic surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Bradley Calobrace in Louisville, Kentucky. Known for meticulous attention to detail, he approaches each case with precision and intention. His philosophy emphasizes harmony and balance – enhancing what is already beautiful while ensuring every change feels natural, thoughtful, and uniquely you.
- Board-certified
- Am. Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellowship-trained
- Aesthetic surgery
- 12+ years
- In practice
Sources & references
This article draws on 5 sources, including peer-reviewed research.
Government & research
- Determining the Safety and Efficacy of Gluteal Augmentation: A Systematic Review of Outcomes and Complications
- Differences in Complication Rates of Gluteoplasty Procedures That Utilize Autologous Fat Grafting, Implants, or Local Flaps
- Complications Following Primary Implant-Based Gluteal Augmentation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lucas Boehm, MD · Last reviewed: 2026-06-13