A buttock lift surgery removes excess skin and reshapes the lower body for a firmer, more contoured look. At Deborah White, M.D. Plastic Surgery, we focus on providing expert care for individuals considering this surgery. Part of that is helping you understand how to prepare for a smooth procedure and recovery. This guide walks you through the necessary steps so you are well-prepared for every stage of the process.

What to Expect Before a Buttock Lift

Getting a buttock lift starts with a consultation. During this first appointment, your surgeon will go over your medical history, talk with you about your overall health, and determine whether the procedure is a good fit for you. They’ll also do a physical exam to take a closer look at your skin’s elasticity and the condition of the underlying tissue.

Open about any previous surgeries, medications you’re taking, and any existing medical conditions. If your weight has gone up and down a lot in the past, your surgeon might suggest maintaining a stable weight before moving forward with surgery. They’ll also chat with you about lifestyle habits like smoking or drinking, since those can affect how well your body heals afterward.

Pre-Surgical Guidelines

Your surgeon will provide specific instructions based on your medical history and needs. In general, patients should take several important steps before surgery:

  • Stop smoking at least six weeks before surgery, as smoking affects blood circulation and slows healing.
  • Avoid medications such as aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs that may increase bleeding risks.
  • Stay hydrated and maintain a nutrient-rich diet to support immune function and aid recovery.
  • Keep weight stable for at least six months before surgery to prevent unnecessary changes in results.

These guidelines will help your body prepare for the procedure and support a smoother recovery.

Preparing Your Home for Recovery

Before your surgery, it’s a good idea to set up a comfortable space where you can rest and recover. Make sure you have everything you might need—like water, your medications, snacks, and your phone—within easy reach. You may find it more comfortable to sleep slightly propped up or with extra pillows to take pressure off your lower body.

Try to keep things you’ll use often at waist height so you’re not constantly bending or stretching, which could slow down your healing. A little organization ahead of time can go a long way in helping you relax and focus on recovering.

It also helps to have some easy meals ready to go—whether that means stocking up on simple dishes or cooking and freezing meals ahead of time. If possible, arrange for a family member or friend to help out, especially during the first week when getting around might be tough.

What to Expect on Surgery Day

On the day of your buttock lift surgery, you will arrive at the surgical facility and check-in. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, and avoid jewelry, lotions, or perfumes. Your surgical team will guide you through the pre-operative steps, which typically involve:

  1. Pre-Op Setup – A nurse will insert an IV line to administer fluids and medications.
  2. Final Markings – Your surgeon will take pre-operative measurements and mark incision areas.
  3. Anesthesia Administration – General anesthesia will be used to keep you comfortable.

The surgery typically lasts between two and four hours. After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area, where medical staff will monitor your condition. Once you are stable, your surgeon will provide discharge instructions. You will need a friend or family member to drive you home. Carefully follow post-operative care guidelines to support a smooth recovery.

Post-Surgical Care and Mobility

Recovering from buttock contouring surgery takes time, patience, and carefully following your surgeon’s instructions. One of the biggest things to keep in mind is avoiding sitting directly on your buttocks for at least the first two weeks. Instead, you’ll want to sit using a special cushion or position yourself so your weight is on your thighs.

When sleeping, lying on your stomach or sides will help keep pressure off your incisions so they can heal properly. You’ll also need to wear compression garments to help reduce swelling and support your body as it recovers.

Sometimes, your surgeon might place small drains to prevent fluid from building up. If you have them, make sure to clean and care for them regularly, as this can help prevent any complications.

Attending follow-up visits with your Scottsdale plastic surgeon will ensure your recovery is progressing as expected. Any concerns about healing, discomfort, or changes in incision sites should be addressed promptly.

How to Maintain Butt Lift Results

To achieve long-term results after a buttock lift, you must commit to a healthy lifestyle. Following your surgeon’s guidance will help preserve the shape and contour of your results over time.

Keep Your Weight Stable

Weight gain may stretch the skin, while weight loss can lead to sagging. Maintaining a consistent weight ensures that your results remain intact.

Prioritize Hydration and Nutrition

Drinking plenty of water helps keep skin firm and elastic. A nutrient-rich diet with lean proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins supports healing and long-term skin integrity. Avoid excessive processed foods, which can contribute to inflammation and slow recovery.

Engage in Low-Impact Exercise

Once cleared by your surgeon, regular physical activity will help maintain body tone and circulation. Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and yoga can keep muscles engaged without stressing healing tissues. Avoid high-impact workouts until you receive medical approval.

Protect Your Incisions from Sun Exposure

Scars take time to fade, and excessive sun exposure can cause them to darken and become more noticeable. To minimize visible scarring, use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear protective clothing over incision sites. Your surgeon may also recommend scar treatments to aid in healing.

Schedule Your Consultation with Dr. White

Working with a skilled surgeon ensures that your procedure is performed precisely and carefully. At Deborah White, M.D. Plastic Surgery, we prioritize patient safety and satisfaction. If you’re considering a buttock lift, schedule a consultation in Scottsdale to discuss your goals and get expert guidance from Dr. White.