Buttock Lift

Completion Belt Lipectomy

A buttock lift, also known as a gluteal lift, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the shape and contour of the buttocks by removing excess skin and tightening the surrounding tissue. It is not primarily intended to add volume, but rather to create a firmer, more lifted appearance. The procedure is especially popular among patients who have experienced significant weight loss, ageing, or skin laxity that has led to a drooping or flattened buttock contour.

Procedure Overview

This procedure is suitable for individuals with loose, sagging skin over the buttocks, often as a result of ageing, weight fluctuations, or major weight loss. It is ideal for those looking to achieve a smoother, more defined buttock contour without adding significant volume. Patients should be in good overall health, maintain a stable weight, and have realistic expectations about the results and scarring.

Aim

The aim is to elevate and contour the buttocks and lower back to improve shape and overall appearance.

At A Glance

Tailored to each patient, this procedure offers transformative results for improved confidence.

Expected results:

Lifted, firmer buttocks and smoother lower back

Treatment time:

3–5 hours

Anaesthesia:

General anaesthetic

Recovery time:

4–6 weeks

Return to work:

2–3 weeks

Lifetime of procedure:

Long-lasting with stable weight

Northwood Hospital - Buttock Lift The Procedure

CONSULTATION

During your consultation, the surgeon will assess the amount of excess skin and tissue, discuss your aesthetic goals, and explain the surgical options available. You will review where the incisions will be placed—commonly across the top of the buttocks, just below the waistline, or in the crease between the buttocks and lower back—so that scars can be concealed under clothing. The surgeon will also discuss the possibility of combining the lift with other procedures, such as liposuction or a thigh lift, to achieve a balanced contour. You will receive detailed information on preparation, including lifestyle adjustments to optimise healing, and an explanation of the potential risks, recovery process, and realistic outcomes.

Book a consultation

PREOP PREPARATION

The general ways you can prepare for any surgery will include eating a healthy diet which includes all the macronutrients important for daily living. It will help to avoid ultraprocessed foods, and those foods high in refined sugars such as cakes, biscuits or chocolates.

It is important to avoid smoking (including passive smoking), vaping for at least 6 weeks in the run up to your surgery as this can decrease blood flow to the skin and make the healing process slower. Similarly please avoid recreational drugs as these can interfere with having an anaesthetic.

Finally preparation of the body area to be worked on is equally important. It would be recommended to follow at least a 6 week program of targeted strength training exercises for the buttock area. This would include glute bridges, modified dead lifts, hip thrusts and working on the smaller gluteal muscles using specific targeted weight training.

SURGERY

The buttock lift is performed under general anaesthetic. The surgeon makes carefully planned incisions to remove excess skin and tighten the underlying tissues. In some cases, liposuction is used to contour the surrounding areas for a smoother shape. Once the desired lift is achieved, the incisions are closed with sutures, and dressings or compression garments are applied to reduce swelling and support the new contour.

RECOVERY

You can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the first few days following surgery, which can be managed with prescribed pain relief. Wearing a compression garment for several weeks will help control swelling and assist the healing process. Sitting directly on the buttocks may need to be limited for the first 1–2 weeks to protect the surgical site. Most patients can return to light activities within 2–3 weeks, with more strenuous exercise and heavy lifting postponed for 6 weeks. Follow-up visits will ensure your recovery is progressing well and that the scars are healing properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a buttock lift safe?

When performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon in an accredited facility, a buttock lift is generally safe. However, as with any surgery, there are potential risks, including infection, bleeding, fluid accumulation, asymmetry, and scarring. Following all pre- and post-operative instructions will help minimise these risks.

Will there be visible scars?

Yes, but the incisions are placed strategically to be hidden under underwear or swimwear. Over time, scars typically fade and become less noticeable, especially with good scar care and sun protection.

Will it increase buttock volume?

A traditional buttock lift primarily lifts and reshapes. If you want increased volume, fat transfer can be included (Brazilian Butt Lift).

When can I resume normal activities?

Light activities are usually possible within 2–3 weeks, but strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and sitting for long periods should be avoided for about 6 weeks. Your surgeon will guide you on when it is safe to resume each activity.