Butt implants and the sciatic nerve?

 No surgery is without some risks. Having said that, risks are typically minimized in an otherwise healthy patient when the surgeon performs the given procedure on a regular basis in a methodical fashion with the same ancillary crew (anesthesiologist, nurse, tech etc) AND when implant size and shape are carefully selected. I personally only place buttock implants within (and occasionally completely under) the gluteus maximus muscle, and have yet to experience (after 14 years) a sciatic nerve injury...albeit i respect the possibility that it could happen in unusual circumstances. Glad to help. 

There is a higher risk of injury with placement of the implants inside or under the gluteal muscle. The risk however is very low and I still recommend placing implants within the muscle to prevent other complications. I do not know that any implant shape would change this risk but the larger the implant you have the more likely some nerve compression may occur. Best of luck

You're sciatic nerve lies particularly deep compared to where the butt implants are placed, whether under the muscle or fascia. I recommend seeing a board certified plastic surgeon in person to discuss the most common risks.Thank you for your question and good luck!Melinda Lacerna, MD FACS

The
best placement for gluteal implants is within the muscle (intra muscular), refers that muscle belly has to be split and the implant placed
between it, this keep the implant separated from
the sciatic nerve. Like anything in the
world of medicine and surgery, knowledge of the anatomy, good training, and
experience help avoid complications.

Best Regards,

Orlando Figueroa Cerpa M.D.



Tijuana, México Plastic Surgeon

Whether buttock implants are placed in the subfascial or intramuscular location, the sciatic nerve is not at risk of injury. The sciatic nerve lies deep to the gluteus maximus muscle.

Hi and thanks for your question. Every procedure has risks even related to anesthesics or to the surgery itself, regarding buttocks implants the safest plane to pace them is intramuscular so they are not so close to the surface to make them noticeable or palpable and not so deep to have nerve or vessels injury. Nowadays this procedure is very often and safetly done. Be sure you are seen by a board certified plastic surgeon.Best wishes.Dr. Milla

This a complete consult. Would be happy to discuss all the aspects of the surgery , options and size