Buttock implants are undergoing a renaissance today largely due to the popularity and widespread use of fat injection buttock augmentation. (Brazilian Butt Lift = BBL) The societal interest in the aesthetics of buttock shape and size combined with the body contouring benefits of liposuction has generated large numbers of such buttock augmentation procedures being performed.
But not everyone is a good candidate for a BBL procedure, due to inadequate fat to harvest, or has a satisfying result from the procedure due to graft resorption. This makes buttock implants as the only option for achieving a bigger buttock size. Most commonly the ‘ideal’ candidate for buttock implants is a relatively thin or small framed person who not only has little fat to harvest but does not necessarily desire a very large or disproportionate buttock size increase.
The use of buttock implants has a checkered history with a not insignificant incidence of complications. (although it is not necessarily higher than that of breast implants…it just seems worse since having to sit or walk with buttock implant problems is a lot more functionally disabling than that of breast implant problems) The debate is whether buttock implants should be placed above the muscle (subfascial) or in an intramuscular position. There are advantages to either approach but the intramuscular position offers the least risk of complications long-term even though it has a longer recovery.
The intramuscular implant location logically requires a different implant shape and size that what may be used for the subfascial location. The intramuscular pocket is more limiting and it is very difficult and ill-advised to try and place implant volumes greater than about 350ccs in them.
The Natural Contour round buttock implant (Implantech) provides an option for buttock augmentation that are designed specifically for intramuscular use. The Natural Contour shape provides permanent volume with an implant profile that stresses the overlying tissues less and is easier to use. These buttock implants are touted as the softest and most natural-feeling silicone buttock implants available. Their flexibility and softness means they can be easily rolled and inserted through smaller incisions. The tapered smooth edges result in a more natural fit into the intramuscular pocket. They are available in sizes of 230cc, 275cc and 330cc with maximal projection of 3.2 cms. (base width 13 cms)
It is important to realize that intramuscular Natural Contour buttock implants are designed for long-term success and a lower incidence of complications. Their use will not be successful for someone seeking a very large or visible round buttock implant size and shape increase.
Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana