A Guide to Hip Augmentation Options: Fat Grafting or Implants?

Hip augmentation is a cosmetic procedure designed to address dissatisfaction with hip size, shape, or contour. It aims to enhance the width of the hip span, improve leg appearance, and contribute to a more balanced overall figure. The primary methods for hip augmentation involve either hip implants or fat grafting, with rare instances of non-surgical techniques like dermal fillers to correct hip dips.

The choice between procedures depends on individual goals, expectations, and comfort levels. To determine the most suitable approach, it is advisable to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can guide you through the options and help you make an informed decision before getting hip enhancement surgery.

Who is a perfect candidate for a hip augmentation surgery?

If you desire a more voluptuous silhouette by enhancing the width of your hips, hip augmentation offers a solution. While individuals of diverse genders pursue this procedure, it is notably popular among transgender women and certain cisgender women seeking a more conventionally feminine appearance with broader hips.

Most individuals in good health are eligible for a safe hip augmentation. During the initial consultation, your surgeon will delve into your medical history and lifestyle. To ensure the procedure’s safety, a basic physical examination and routine blood work will be required.

For those considering fat grafting, maintaining optimal circulation is crucial. Consequently, if you are a smoker, you may be advised to cease smoking prior to undergoing the augmentation procedure.

What are the two types of hip augmentation?

Hip augmentation comes in two primary forms: fat grafting and implants, each offering distinct approaches to achieving the desired results.

In the fat grafting process, your surgeon utilizes liposuction to extract fat from areas such as the stomach, back, or thighs. This harvested fat is then strategically injected into the hip region to sculpt the desired contour.

Conversely, hip implant surgery involves the insertion of semi-solid silicone rubber implants through a small incision below the beltline. These implants are positioned atop the tendon running along the outer hip, providing stability and anchoring them securely in place.

Both procedures are conducted under general anesthesia, emphasizing the importance of having a support person accompany you and ensure a safe journey home after the surgery.

Hip Implants

Hip implants consist of soft, semi-solid silicone rubber and are individually crafted to suit each patient’s unique proportions and aesthetic objectives. Alternatively, there’s the possibility of adapting an off-the-shelf implant designed for another body part to achieve the desired fit.

The surgical process for hip implantation involves a small incision along the beltline, through which each implant is carefully positioned beneath the subcutaneous fascia layer. The incision is then closed with sutures.

Following the procedure, a recovery period of two to four weeks is necessary, with complete recuperation typically spanning six to eight weeks. Sleeping on the side is advised against for at least three weeks, and a compression garment is recommended for up to six weeks. During recovery, strenuous activities, including heavy lifting, should be avoided.

In cases where pain medications or perception-altering drugs are prescribed, refraining from driving while under their influence is crucial. It is imperative to discuss the recovery timeline in detail with your surgeon.

Although complications from cosmetic hip implants are rare, they may include infection, asymmetry, thickened scars, or visibility of the implant contour edges. An immediate consultation with your surgeon is necessary if any signs of infection, such as pain, fever, redness, or drainage, are observed. Timely medical intervention can effectively address most complications.

Fat Grafting

Fat grafting to hips emerges as a minimally invasive approach to hip augmentation, offering a viable option for individuals with excess fat in areas such as the stomach, buttocks, or inner thighs. This surplus fat is extracted, purified, and then strategically transferred to enhance the hips.

In the fat grafting procedure, your surgeon employs liposuction to remove fat from specific areas. The harvested fat undergoes a purification process before being delicately transferred to the hip region.

Complete recovery from fat transfer may extend to eight weeks or more, with most bruising typically subsiding within one to three weeks. While the full outcome becomes evident between six to twelve weeks, the initial recovery phase necessitates sleeping on your stomach or back to optimize fat survival. Most individuals can resume regular physical activities within three weeks.

Fat grafting presents a low risk of complications, with infections being exceptionally rare. In the unlikely event of an infection, symptoms such as fever or discharge near the incision site should prompt immediate consultation with your doctor. Timely intervention can effectively address and treat any potential complications.

What are the differences between fat grafting to hips vs. implants?

Fat grafting stands out as a favored choice for those seeking a comprehensive figure transformation rather than just augmenting hip width, offering the dual benefit of widening hips and slimming the waistline.

Despite its popularity, fat grafting comes with inherent unpredictability and less permanence. Even in the hands of a skilled plastic surgeon, achieving precise desired outcomes may be challenging due to individual body reactions to grafting. Additionally, success doesn’t guarantee longevity, with up to 40% of grafted fat cells facing the risk of not surviving over the long term.

In contrast, hip implants provide a more foreseeable outcome compared to fat grafting, offering results that are easier to manage and generally more striking. However, this procedure is not without drawbacks, as it may result in more noticeable scars and, in some cases, the implant may become visible or palpable, potentially detracting from the overall aesthetic appeal.

How long does hip augmentation last?

Fat grafting typically offers a more temporary solution compared to hip implants. While fat cells that endure the initial three months post-operation are deemed permanent, the overall effectiveness of the procedure can still be influenced by personal eating habits and lifestyle choices, leading to potential gains or losses in fat. Changes in weight after fat grafting can impact the sustained results.

On the other hand, the outcomes of hip implants are considered permanent, provided there are no complications necessitating the removal or repositioning of the implants. This distinction underscores the enduring nature of hip implant results, offering a more stable and lasting solution in comparison to the potential fluctuations associated with fat grafting.

Get your dream hips with hip augmentation

Achieve a more confident and balanced figure through the transformative possibilities of hip augmentation. Whether you opt for the precision of hip implants or the versatility of fat grafting, our team of skilled surgeons is ready to guide you. Schedule a consultation to explore the tailored options, understand the nuances of each procedure, and make an informed decision aligned with your goals. Experience the lasting confidence that comes with achieving the ideal contours for your body.