According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), buttock augmentation procedures rose 16 percent between 2012 and 2013. Of the 1,668,420 plastic surgeries performed in 2013, 9,993 were fat grafting buttock augmentations.
Buttock augmentation involves transferring fat using implants and or fat grafting to increase the size of the buttocks, according to the ASPS. During the procedure, an incision is made and a silicone implant is placed within the muscle or above the gluteal muscle on each side.
Between 2013 and 2014, according to The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, buttock augmentation and labiaplasty procedures both doubled between 2013 and 2014, resulting in over 21,446 surgeries in total.
Labiaplasty, a female genital cosmetic surgery, ranges from trimming outer and inner labia lips to injections with fat and fillers, according to the ASAPS.
Many women don’t actually want larger buttocks, but would rather a more firm and shapely one, Michael Edwards, president of ASPS said to Allure Magazine.
Celebrities may be the main factor in this sudden rise of buttock augmentations. Stars like Kim Kardashian, Nicki Minaj and Iggy Azalea are known for their heavy social media presence, pictures in the tabloids and bigger backsides. Form-fitting designer clothes and outfits in the media have centered on the buttocks of these and other celebrities bringing the idea of enhancing your own backside to the forefront.
Another factor though, as told to NBC news by Wesleyan professor Victoria Pitts-Taylor, is surgeons. Communication between patients and doctors has only expanded in the last few years. Tools like phone apps and online forum boards have made doctors more accessible to prospective patients for questions, consultations and concerns.
To ensure a surgery like buttock augmentation is done correctly, visit a board certified plastic surgeon, like those at the Lett Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Also be sure to consult with a plastic surgery specialist experienced in the procedure you want for happiest and safest results.