There are three defining characteristics of the female form—breasts, round buttocks, and a low waist-to-hip ratio.  Buttocks augmentation, also known as the “Brazilian butt lift”, is the preferred procedure for achieving a shapely, feminine backside.  Generally, the male buttocks lack projection and are fattier in the flank areas, resulting in a semi-flat presentation with minimal curve in the lower back.  In contrast, the female buttocks tend to be rounder and fuller, with increased projection and an “s-curve” silhouette.  The Brazilian butt lift procedure allows the transwoman to obtain a feminine backside and improve her waist-to-hip ratio via a less invasive, natural augmentation called fat transfer.  Essentially, fat transfer involves using liposuction to move fat from an area of the body where it is unwanted, to an area of the body where it is more desirable.

Patients who undergo Brazilian butt lift should expect to experience some temporary swelling, bruising, and pain during their recovery.  Your body may also reabsorb some of the fat that was injected, so your surgeon may opt to “overfill” a bit to counteract this effect.  While the risk of more serious complications is low, these can include bleeding, fluid build-up, infection, or scarring.  One caveat: Brazilian butt lift is not generally a good option for very thin patients, as there must be sufficient body fat available for transfer.  For these patients, silicone implants may be a better option.  Your surgeon can help you to decide which route is preferable for your unique anatomy.

Trunk liposuction is the preferred procedure for achieving an ideal waist-to-hip ratio, with a tapered waist and curved, feminine hips.  Depending on the patient’s individual needs, areas targeted by trunk liposuction can include the waist, abdomen, “love handles” and mid/lower back.  Removing unwanted fat from this region can result in a streamlined, more contoured silhouette.  As with buttocks augmentation, this procedure is very safe.  Trunk liposuction is usually completed in about an hour using only light sedation and local anesthesia.  Tiny incisions are made in the target areas, and the unwanted fat is gently suctioned out.  The fat can then be transferred to the buttocks region if the patient has opted for a Brazilian butt lift.