Not all buttocks are the same shape or require the same treatment. Starting anatomy, pelvic width, waist circumference, available fat, and gluteal projection determine what results are achievable.
Before discussing BBL, implants, or liposculpture, it is important to identify the type of buttocks and understand what can be improved: volume, shape, symmetry, projection, or transition between waist, hip, and buttocks.
In-person or video call consultation: We assess your current fitness level, available fat, waist, hips, and realistic goal.
Quick summary: types of buttocks and enhancement options
| Buttock type | Key features | Improvement options |
|---|---|---|
| Heart or pear | More volume in the lower part, good transition to thighs and hips. | Waist definition, liposculpture or soft BBL if volume is missing. |
| V-shaped | Wider at the top and smaller at the bottom. | BBL, fat transfer to the lower pole or Supercharged BBL. |
| Square | Little curve between waist, hips and buttocks. | Lipo 360, lateral fat transfer and body remodeling. |
| Plano | Lack of projection and gluteal volume. | BBL if there is enough fat or implants/Supercharged BBL if volume is lacking. |
The essentials — what you need to know
- There are four basic shapes: heart or pear, V-shaped, square, and flat.
- Your starting point matters more than a target photo: anatomy determines what is achievable.
- Square and V-shaped buttocks often benefit greatly from a combination of liposculpture and fat transfer.
- Flat buttocks need added projection: this can be achieved with your own fat, implants, or Supercharged BBL.
- Almost any shape can be improved when the plan is adapted to the patient's actual anatomy.
Types of glutes and their characteristics
Heart-shaped or pear-shaped buttocks
The lower body is fuller, and there's usually a smooth transition to the thighs and hips. It's a harmonious shape that, in many cases, doesn't need more volume, but rather waist definition and a more refined silhouette.
V-Shaped Buttocks
The upper area is wider and narrows towards the bottom. This shape often benefits from techniques that add volume to the lower pole and improve the transition between waist, hips, and buttocks.
Square buttocks
They have a similar width at the waist and hips, with little lateral curvature. They often improve with waist liposculpture, flank contouring, and strategic fat transfer to create a more curvaceous silhouette.
Flat glutes
Its main characteristic is a lack of projection and volume. This can be due to genetics, low muscle mass, or fat loss over time. The goal is usually to add projection and create a more harmonious shape.
Don't know what type of buttocks you have?
Visual appearance is only one part of the diagnosis. To determine what can realistically be achieved, it's necessary to assess available fat, pelvic width, waist circumference, skin quality, current projection, and expectations. Therefore, the decision shouldn't be based solely on an aesthetic classification.
What are the buttocks and what determines their shape?
The gluteal muscles are a group of muscles comprised of the gluteus maximus, gluteus medius, and gluteus minimus. In addition to their aesthetic function, they play a role in stabilizing, balancing, and moving the body.
The visible shape of the buttocks depends on several factors: genetics, bone structure, fat distribution, muscle tone, age, hormonal changes, pregnancy, and weight fluctuations. Exercise can improve firmness, but it doesn't always change the underlying shape or the transition between waist, hips, and buttocks.
What surgery can achieve depending on your buttock type
Each type of buttocks responds differently to surgical treatment. Therefore, the correct procedure depends on your anatomy, not just the shape you would like to achieve.
- V-shaped buttocks: fat transfer to the lower pole and waist sculpting.
- Square buttocks: waist liposuction and strategic filling of hips and sides.
- Flat buttocks: volume increase through BBL o Supercharged BBL, depending on available fat and target.
- Heart-shaped or pear-shaped buttocks: Refinement of waist and contour, rather than excessive increase in volume.
What is the best treatment to increase or improve the buttocks?
BBL with own fat
El Brazilian Butt Lift It combines liposuction of areas with excess fat with fat transfer to the buttocks. It's a good option when there is sufficient donor fat and a natural augmentation with improved contour is desired.
El BBL price It depends on the case, the complexity, and the surgical plan.
Liposculpture and waist definition
In many cases, improving the appearance of the buttocks isn't just about adding volume. Reducing fat from the flanks, lower back, and waist can significantly change the perception of the hips and buttocks.
Supercharged BBL
El Supercharged BBL It combines gluteal implants with fat transfer. It is especially useful in patients with little available fat or when more structural projection is desired.
RibMold as a complementary procedure
When a narrower waist is also desired, it can be considered RibMold as a complement within a body contouring plan, provided that anatomy and safety allow it.
Care before buttock augmentation
Good planning begins before surgery. It's important to quit smoking, inform the medical team about any medications and supplements you're taking, avoid blood thinners when indicated, and arrive at the procedure at a stable weight.
Significant weight fluctuations can affect the outcome, especially in procedures that rely on the patient's own fat. Therefore, surgery should only be considered when the patient has realistic expectations and a stable body composition.
Recovery and postoperative care
After a BBL or Supercharged BBL, post-operative care is an integral part of the outcome. For the first few weeks, avoid direct pressure on the buttocks, wear the compression garment as prescribed, and refrain from strenuous exercise until cleared.
It's also important to follow the guidelines on rest, sleeping positions, drainage, checkups, and nutrition. You can find more information on this in our guide. BBL postoperative care.
How to know which is the best option for you
The choice depends on the type of buttocks, the available fat, the desired result, and body structure. Those with good donor fat who are looking for a natural result may be candidates for a traditional BBL. Those with little fat or who are looking for greater projection may need a hybrid approach.
In male patients, the planning takes into account different proportions: more defined waistline, controlled projection, and an athletic silhouette. You can read more on our page. BBL in men.
Results, duration and maintenance
The results of the BBL and Supercharged BBL are long-lasting when the surgery is well-indicated and weight is maintained. Some of the transferred fat is reabsorbed during the first few months; the remaining fat typically stabilizes within 3 to 6 months.
To maintain the result, it is key to watch your weight, avoid tobacco, follow post-operative instructions, and understand that the body will continue to change over time.
Risks and possible complications
Like any surgery, buttock augmentation can have risks. These include infection, bruising, asymmetry, partial volume loss, or complications related to the technique. The most serious risk of a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is fat embolism, which is why the fat must be placed above the muscle using a safe technique.
Safety depends on patient selection, the surgeon's experience, the surgical environment, and adherence to the postoperative protocol. Surgery should not be approached as a standard procedure, but rather as an individualized plan.
Frequently asked questions about buttock types and surgery
Your form is not your destiny.
Almost any type of buttocks can be enhanced when the surgical plan is tailored to the individual's anatomy. The question isn't just what shape you have, but what your body can safely and realistically achieve.
Dr. Alexander Aslani and the team at Cirumed Clinic Marbella assess available fat, waist, hips, skin quality, projection, and aesthetic goal before recommending BBL, Supercharged BBL, liposculpture, or other complementary procedures.
