Hip dips refer to the inward curves that can appear on the outer sides of the hips, just below the hip bone and above the thighs. This anatomical feature is a natural variation in body shape, often described as “violin hips” due to the indentation it creates. While hip dips are a normal anatomical feature and do not indicate a medical issue, some individuals seek cosmetic solutions to achieve a smoother, more rounded hip contour. Surgical correction aims to address this aesthetic concern by altering the distribution of volume in the hip area.
Anatomical Basis of Hip Dips
Hip dips are natural indentations influenced by the underlying bone structure of the pelvis and the femur, alongside the distribution of fat and muscle. The pelvis, composed of bones like the ilium, connects the spine to the leg bones. The ilium forms the widest part of the hip, and the way it connects with the head of the femur (thigh bone) can create a visible space or indentation. This is a normal anatomical variation, with the prominence of hip dips varying significantly among individuals.
The appearance of hip dips is largely determined by genetics, which dictate skeletal structure and how fat is naturally distributed across the body. While exercise can strengthen gluteal muscles, it cannot alter the fundamental bone structure that contributes to hip dips. These indentations are not an indication of health, fitness levels, or body weight.
The Surgical Procedure for Hip Dip Correction
The primary surgical method for correcting hip dips is fat grafting, also known as lipofilling or fat transfer. This procedure involves two main stages: harvesting fat from other areas of the body and then carefully injecting it into the hip dip region. The goal is to create a smoother, more continuous curve between the hip and thigh.
A surgeon performs liposuction to remove excess fat from donor sites, commonly including the abdomen, flanks, or inner thighs. Small incisions are made to insert a thin tube called a cannula, which suctions out the fat. This harvested fat is then processed and purified to separate healthy fat cells from blood and other fluids, ensuring only viable fat is used for transfer.
Following purification, the surgeon injects the processed fat into the hip dip areas. The fat is strategically placed to fill the indentations and create a more rounded appearance. This procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, often under general anesthesia, though local anesthesia with sedation may also be used. The entire process usually takes three to four hours.
Anticipating Results from Hip Dip Surgery
Hip dip surgery aims to achieve a more contoured and rounded appearance in the hip area, effectively smoothing out the indentations. Results vary based on individual anatomy and the amount of fat that successfully integrates. Transferred fat cells can establish a new blood supply and survive permanently.
Not all injected fat cells will survive the transfer; typically, 30% to 70% of the grafted fat remains. The body naturally reabsorbs the remaining fat during the initial healing period, which can take several months. Surgeons often over-inject to account for this initial absorption. Final results generally become apparent within six weeks to six months after the procedure. Maintaining a stable weight after surgery is important, as significant fluctuations can impact results.
Navigating Recovery
Recovery after hip dip surgery involves managing common post-operative sensations such as swelling, bruising, and soreness in both the liposuction and injection sites. These effects usually subside within a few weeks. Patients are often advised to wear compression garments, which helps reduce swelling and support the newly contoured areas.
Most individuals can resume light walking and non-strenuous activities within a day or two after surgery. More vigorous exercise is typically restricted for four to six weeks to allow for proper healing and fat integration. During initial recovery, patients may need to sleep on their stomach or back to avoid pressure on treated hip areas, which supports fat survival. Adhering to the surgeon’s post-operative instructions is important for optimal healing and outcome.
Deciding on Hip Dip Surgery
Considering hip dip surgery involves careful thought and a clear understanding of what the procedure can achieve. It is important to have realistic expectations, recognizing that surgery contours and enhances the hip area, rather than serving as a method for weight loss. The procedure is for individuals seeking to refine their silhouette and achieve a smoother hip line.
Ideal candidates are generally in good overall health, are non-smokers, and are within 30% of their ideal body weight. They should also possess sufficient fat stores in other body areas for grafting. A consultation with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon is a necessary step. During this consultation, the surgeon assesses individual anatomy, discusses aesthetic goals, and provides information about the procedure, potential outcomes, and associated considerations.