Buttock Lift Philadelphia & New Jersey
Over time, natural aging, gravity, and weight fluctuations can cause the buttocks to lose firmness and definition. These changes in skin tone and underlying support can lead to sagging or flattening that affects the body’s overall balance. For those seeking a more lifted, youthful contour, a buttock lift offers a safe and effective surgical solution.
At Becker Plastic Surgery, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. David W. Allison performs buttock lift (gluteal lift) procedures to restore firmer, smoother, and more defined contours. Serving patients throughout Philadelphia and New Jersey, Dr. Allison provides customized, natural-looking results through meticulous technique and a patient-centered approach. His philosophy emphasizes safety, proportion, and long-term satisfaction in every treatment plan.
Whether your goal is to improve lower-body proportion, lift sagging skin, or restore tone after weight loss, Dr. Allison tailors each procedure to your anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Benefits of a Buttock Lift
A buttock lift offers both aesthetic and functional improvements, helping patients feel more confident and comfortable in their appearance.
Common benefits include:
- Reduction of sagging or loose skin that obscures natural shape
- Smoother, firmer, and more youthful contours
- Improved proportion between the lower back, buttocks, and thighs
- Enhanced comfort in fitted clothing and swimwear
- Long-lasting results when supported by a stable weight
Because the procedure repositions and tightens the body’s own tissues rather than relying on implants or fillers, it achieves natural results that blend seamlessly with surrounding areas.
What Is a Buttock Lift?
A buttock lift, or gluteal lift, is a body contouring procedure that removes excess skin and tightens underlying tissues to create a firmer, elevated appearance. The surgery focuses on reshaping rather than enlarging the buttocks, addressing laxity caused by aging, weight changes, or decreased skin elasticity.
While some patients may combine a lift with fat grafting to enhance fullness, the primary goal of a buttock lift is to restore tone and shape by tightening and repositioning existing tissue. This makes the procedure ideal for individuals who have loose, sagging skin rather than a loss of volume alone.
Dr. Allison carefully evaluates skin quality, tissue tone, and body proportion during consultation to determine whether a traditional lift, fat transfer, or combination approach will achieve the most natural and balanced results.
How the Procedure Works
Buttock lift surgery is performed in an accredited surgical facility under general anesthesia or IV sedation. The surgery typically takes two to three hours, depending on the extent of tissue removal and whether additional procedures are included.
Incision Placement and Tissue Tightening
Dr. Allison begins by marking incision lines that follow natural body contours for discreet placement. Common incision options include:
- Along the lower back or upper buttocks, just below the waistline (often used for a comprehensive lower body lift)
- In the natural crease where the buttocks meet the upper thighs
Through these incisions, Dr. Allison removes excess skin and repositions remaining tissue to create a lifted, smoother contour. In many cases, liposuction is performed to refine nearby areas such as the flanks or lower back, enhancing the overall shape and symmetry of the lower body.
Closure and Support
Once the desired lift and contour are achieved, Dr. Allison closes the incisions with layered sutures to ensure strength and minimize tension on the skin. In some cases, small drains are placed temporarily to prevent fluid buildup during early recovery. A compression garment is applied to support the tissues and reduce swelling as healing begins.
Recovery and Results
After surgery, mild to moderate swelling, bruising, and soreness are normal and improve gradually over the first few weeks. Dr. Allison provides personalized pain management and recovery instructions to ensure comfort and safety during healing.
Most patients feel comfortable returning to light, non-strenuous activities within 10 to 14 days. Sitting directly on the buttocks should be limited initially, and Dr. Allison provides guidance on positioning, supportive cushions, and sleeping techniques to protect the surgical site. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are postponed for approximately six to eight weeks.
Wearing compression garments as directed helps maintain contour and minimize swelling. As tissues settle, results become increasingly refined over three to six months. Incision lines continue to fade and flatten for up to two years, blending naturally with surrounding skin.
Once fully healed, patients enjoy a firmer, lifted, and better-proportioned buttock contour that complements the rest of the body. With proper care and a stable weight, results can be long-lasting.
A buttock lift is a safe and effective procedure when performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. However, as with all surgeries, there are potential risks, including:
- Bleeding, infection, or fluid buildup (seroma)
- Poor wound healing or skin necrosis
- Scarring or contour irregularities
- Asymmetry or uneven tightening
- Changes in skin sensation
- General anesthesia-related complications
Dr. Allison minimizes these risks through careful preoperative planning, meticulous technique, and detailed postoperative monitoring. His focus on patient education ensures you understand every aspect of your procedure and recovery.
Potential Risks and Considerations
Ideal Candidates
You may be a good candidate for a buttock lift if you:
- Have loose or sagging skin on the buttocks that does not respond to exercise
- Maintain a stable, healthy weight
- Are in good general health and do not have conditions that impair healing
- Are a non-smoker or willing to quit before and after surgery
- Have realistic expectations and clear goals for your results
A buttock lift is best suited for individuals with adequate tissue elasticity and soft-tissue support who want to restore shape, not simply add volume. During your consultation, Dr. Allison performs a detailed evaluation to confirm whether a lift, fat grafting, or combined approach is most appropriate.
Maintaining Your Results
The longevity of your results depends on maintaining healthy habits and a stable weight. Significant weight fluctuations can affect the tone and elasticity of the skin, potentially altering results over time. Dr. Allison recommends:
- Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise routine
- Avoiding excessive sun exposure on incision areas
- Wearing supportive garments during recovery
- Following all after-care instructions closely
If fat grafting or auto-augmentation was performed, the transferred fat behaves like natural fat and can fluctuate with weight changes. Regular follow-up visits help ensure that your results remain smooth and consistent over time.
Why Choose Becker Plastic Surgery and Dr. David W. Allison?
Dr. David W. Allison, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon recognized for his precision, artistry, and patient-centered approach to aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. At Becker Plastic Surgery, which has offices across New Jersey and the Philadelphia region, Dr. Allison provides advanced, compassionate care to patients seeking body contouring and rejuvenation procedures.
He collaborates with a team of leading plastic and facial plastic surgeons who share a commitment to natural outcomes and the highest standards of safety. His calm, communicative style and attention to detail help each patient feel supported, informed, and confident throughout their journey—from consultation through recovery.
Pick one of our 6 convenient locationsfor Your Plastic Surgery Needs
If sagging or loss of firmness has changed the way you feel about your body, a buttock lift may be the key to restoring shape, comfort, and confidence. Dr. David W. Allison and the Becker Plastic Surgery team proudly serve patients across Philadelphia and New Jersey, offering personalized care and refined surgical results. Schedule your private consultation today to learn how a gluteal lift can help you achieve a smoother, more balanced silhouette.
Buttock Lift Surgery FAQs
Is a buttock lift the same as a Brazilian Butt Lift?
No. A traditional buttock lift focuses on tightening and lifting sagging skin, while a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) uses fat transfer to increase volume. Some patients may choose to combine the two for comprehensive improvement in both tone and fullness.
How long does recovery take?
Most patients return to normal daily routines within one to two weeks, although strenuous activity and prolonged sitting are avoided for about six to eight weeks. Full results appear gradually as swelling subsides and tissues settle.
Will I have visible scars?
Yes, some scarring is unavoidable. However, Dr. Allison places incisions strategically—often below the waistline or in natural creases—so they remain well concealed. Scars fade over time and become less noticeable with proper care and sun protection.
Can a buttock lift be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Many patients combine a buttock lift with complementary body contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), thigh lift, or liposuction for a more cohesive and balanced silhouette.
What type of anesthesia is used?
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia, though some cases may use IV sedation. Dr. Allison and his surgical team prioritize comfort and safety throughout the experience.
Is a buttock lift safe?
When performed by a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon in an accredited surgical facility, the buttock lift is considered safe. Dr. Allison’s refined surgical technique and attention to patient care minimize risks and promote smooth recovery.
When will I see results?
Initial improvements in shape and firmness are noticeable soon after surgery, with continued refinement as swelling resolves over the next several months. Final results are typically visible by three to six months postoperatively.
Are the results permanent?
Yes. The results of a buttock lift are long-lasting when supported by stable weight and a healthy lifestyle. Natural aging and gravity may cause gradual changes over time, but the overall improvement in contour remains significant for years.