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 The procedure is approximately two hours in length and is performed with the patient under general anesthesia. A 2-3 inch incision is made in between the buttocks along the midline or "crack". Through this incision the surgeon lifts the buttock muscle, or gluteus maximus, to make a pocket just large enough for the implant. The implant is then inserted into the pocket. Another implant is placed, using this same method, in the other "cheek". Before the incision is sealed, the surgeon examines the patient to ensure that the new implants appear natural and symmetrical and adjustments are made if needed. The incision is then stitched using dissolvable stitches and the area is wrapped in compression bandages for protection and to reduce discomfort and swelling. The patient is ready to leave the surgical center within an hour of completion of the procedure.
After the procedure the patient will be uncomfortable for the next several days and should have someone to stay with them at least for the first night or two. After two to three days the bandaging may be removed and some normal activity including showering may resume. Once the bandaging is removed, the patient will immediately see the results of the surgery. After several months, once the muscle has stretched, the implants will appear much more natural.
Four weeks following surgery, the patient may resume full activity including running, bicycling, swimming, etc. The implants may take as long as six or eight months before the implants go unnoticed by the patient and feel as though they are part of the patient's body.
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