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Cosmetic Surgery

Buttock Lift (Belt Lipectomy) at Mayo Clinic

illustration of before and after buttocks reduction surgery

(Synonyms: Buttock lift)

A buttock lift removes the excess skin and fat that cause sagging buttocks. The procedure improves body shape by contouring the waist, hips and back of the thighs.

What to Expect

The surgeon makes an incision along the lower back, from hip to hip. The excess skin below the incision is pulled up, lifting the buttocks and outer thighs. The extra skin is then removed. Drains may be placed during surgery. Patients wear a supportive garment (abdominal binder) for six weeks to help prevent fluid buildup and provide support during healing.

Key Facts

Anesthesia: General anesthesia

Length of procedure: Up to 2 hours

Length of stay: Usually home the next day, unless other procedures are performed at the same time

Discomfort: Moderate to severe; controlled with pain medications

Anticipate: Swelling from 2 to 4 weeks; up to 3 months to resolve completely

Final result: Up to a year

Duration of results: Lasting, with weight maintenance

Risks

Risks associated with belt lipectomy include, but are not limited to:

Problems related to anesthesia
Bleeding
Infection
Blood clots
Widening of the scar
Seroma (fluid collection under the skin)
Separation of the incision or poor wound healing
Numbness in the area (usually temporary)

This procedure is performed by specialists in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

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