Also known as a buttock lift, thighplasty, or a thigh/buttock lift, a butt lift is an invasive surgery which is performed to improve the tone and shape of the skin. Unlike butt implant surgery or body contouring which adds structure and shape to the posterior, the purpose of a buttock lift is to make the rear end appear less saggy, dimpled or wrinkled.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, over 3500 Americans had butt lifts in 2006. Most appropriate for individuals who have loose or flabby skin on the buttocks due to extreme weight loss or aging, a butt lift is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia and takes three to six hours to complete. Not uncommonly, butt lifts are performed along with lower body contouring, liposuction or butt implant surgery.

Although there is no one method used by all plastic surgeons, the most common method is called a ‘full buttock lift,’ and involves short incisions at the top of the buttocks, in the front of the groin, and on the hips. Following incisions, excess skin and fat is detached and removed from the underlying muscles. The skin is then reshaped and pulled over the muscles. Drains are placed beneath the skin to insure the removal of excess fluid. Finally, the skin is trimmed and sutured. A sterile dressing is applied and the patient is placed in a compression garment.

After surgery, pain is to be expected and surgeons generally prescribe a pain killer to alleviate the discomfort. Although full recovery from a buttock lift usually takes four to six months, most of the bruising and swelling subsides within a month. It is not uncommon for patients to experience discomfort upon sitting for many weeks following the surgery. Furthermore, it may take as long as three months before patients are able to engage in any kind of strenuous activity or exercise.

Although costs vary, according to Plastic Surgery Portal, a website devoted to providing consumers with the latest information about cosmetic surgery, the average price of a butt lift is $6,000. For more information, consult your plastic surgeon.