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Originally Posted On: Hip Augmentation – Everything You Need To Know – Leif Rogers MD

Hip augmentation helps those unsatisfied with the size, shape, or contour of their hips. Augmentation can increase the width of your hip span, improve the look of your legs, and help you create a more proportionate figure overall.

The two main procedures for hip augmentation are hip implants and fat grafting, although – in rare cases – patients may use non-surgical techniques such as dermal fillers to correct hip dips. The right procedure for you comes down to your goals, expectations, and personal comfort zone.

The best way to decide whether hip augmentation is right for you is to discuss your options with a qualified plastic surgeon. If you are considering hip augmentation, we will provide you with a brief guide below to help you make an informed decision.

Hip Implants

Hip implants are made of soft, semi-solid silicone rubber. They are custom made for each patient based on their proportions and goals. Or in some cases, an off-the-shelf implant for another body part may be adjusted to fit.

During hip implant surgery, your surgeon makes a small incision along the beltline and then places each implant below the subcutaneous fascia layer. They then close the incision with sutures.

After surgery, you will need two to four weeks of downtime, but full recovery can take six to eight weeks. You may not sleep on your side for at least three weeks and will need to wear a compression garment for up to six weeks. You will also have to avoid strenuous activities, including heavy lifting, during recovery.

If you are prescribed pain medications or other medications that alter your perception, you will have to refrain from driving while taking them. Discuss your timeline for recovery carefully with your surgeon.

Complications from hip implants are rare, but can include infection, asymmetry, thickened scars, and visibility of the edges of the implant contour. Contact your surgeon right away if you experience any signs of infection such as pain, fever, redness, or drainage. Most complications can be treated with prompt medical intervention.

Fat Grafting

Fat grafting is a less invasive form of hip augmentation. If you have unwanted fat in areas like the stomach, the buttocks, or the inner thighs, this can be removed, purified, and transferred to the hips.

During fat grafting, your surgeon will remove fat from one or more areas via liposuction. The fat will then be purified and transferred to the hip area.

Full recovery from fat transfer can take eight weeks or more, but most bruising should subside in one to three weeks. Full results will not be realized for six to twelve weeks. You will need to sleep on your stomach or back during this time to ensure fat survival. Most patients can resume regular physical activity within three weeks.

Fat grafting has a low risk of complications. Infections can occur, however are exceptionally rare. Talk to your doctor right away if you experience symptoms like fever or discharge near the incision site. Infections are treatable if they are addressed right away.

What About Hip Dips?

Recently, the subject of “hip dips” has gotten a lot of attention in the media, especially in regards to hip augmentation. Sometimes called “violin hips,” hip dips are narrow inward depressions found along the side of your body near the hip bones.

If you have visible hip dips, this is completely normal and not a problem that requires medical attention. However, some people dislike the appearance of hip dips and would prefer a more hourglass filled out figure. Hip augmentation can help.

Hip dips are not typically treated with hip implants. Fat grafting is generally the recommended treatment option, but some patients do not have enough body fat for grafting. In these cases, talk to your surgeon about dermal fillers such as Sculptra or Renuva. These can fill out your hips, eliminating dips and creating an hourglass shape.

Not everyone is a good candidate for hip dips surgery. You need to be within 30% of your ideal body weight. If you have a history of bleeding or autoimmune disorders or recently lost 25 pounds or more, you may not be able to safely undergo hip dip treatment.

While fat grafting can temporarily reduce the appearance of hip dips, 30% to 50% injected into your hip area could potentially be absorbed by your body within a year of surgery. If you undergo fat grafting to correct hip dips, you may need additional follow-up procedures to ensure you maintain your results.

Hip Augmentation: The Bottom Line

Hip augmentation can help you achieve the look you want and leave you feeling better about yourself and your body. Both hip implants and fat grafting can help widen your hips, creating a more proportional frame. Hip augmentation is not right for everyone, however, so make sure to think over the pros and cons carefully.

The best way to determine if hip augmentation is right for you is to book a consultation with a professional.  Leif Rogers is an Ivy League-educated, board-certified plastic surgeon and a standing member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. If you’re considering hip augmentation, get in touch with his team to schedule a consultation. The Office of Dr. Rogers will start with a necessary consultation session for Hip Augmentation in Beverly Hills.