Autologous Fat Transfer to Buttocks

Abstract

This chapter describes in detail the surgical steps involved in performing the Brazilian butt lift or autologous fat transfer to the buttocks. Buttock augmentation has been gaining increasing popularity, particularly in certain ethnic groups (Semin Plast Surg 23(3):232–43, 2009). Buttock augmentation can be achieved with either implants or autologous fat. The advantage of autologous fat is that there is minimal risk of infection and no risks of implant malposition, rotation, or extrusion (Clin Plast Surg 33(3):449–66, 2006). Another advantage of autologous fat transfer is that fat is removed from less desirable areas such as the abdomen, flanks, back, and/or thighs (Surg Innov 21(3):327–36, 2014). There is risk of fat necrosis or fat absorption (failed take) (Plast Reconstr Surg 124(1):272–80, 2009). The key area to suction is the lumbosacral triangle (the “V” zone). This alone gives the visual illusion of a prominent buttock. This fat is harvested using standard tumescent liposuction techniques and then separated by gravity or centrifuge (Clin Plast Surg 33(3):449–66, 2006). This “pure fat” is devoid of oil, blood, and tumescent fluid. There are four basic buttock shapes: the “A” shape, “V” shape, “round” shape, and “square” shape (Clin Plast Surg 33(3):333–46, 2006). The “A” shape is considered the most attractive, and the goal of this surgery is to convert the other buttock shapes to an “A” shape.