Sometimes the body stores fat in areas that aren’t flattering. Nobody wants to look in a mirror and see fat pockets below their buttocks. These “banana rolls” are unsightly, embarrassing, and often difficult to shrink. Banana rolls can make people self-conscious about their appearance in certain clothing or swimsuits.
What are banana rolls?
Banana rolls are crescent shaped areas of fat that accumulate between the upper thighs and the buttocks. These stubborn bulges make the buttocks look untoned, saggy, and even misshapen. The gluteal muscles may look underdeveloped and weak. Banana roll fat is often noticeable from both the front and side profiles.
What causes banana rolls?
Several factors may lead to the formation of banana rolls.
- Diet – Consuming too many calories leads to added fat stored in the body. A diet high in carbs, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats exacerbates the problem.
- Sedentary lifestyle – Taking in more calories than we can burn each day leads to fat accumulation. Having an active lifestyle with daily exercise helps keep weight under control.
- Hormone imbalances – Hormonal changes can negatively affect weight gain. These changes may occur during pregnancy and after menopause. Some metabolic disorders can also cause hormonal imbalances.
- Genetics – Our genetics play a roll in how our body stores or carries fat. This seems to affect more women than men.
Why doesn’t diet or exercise help?
Modifying the diet and exercising more may help to a certain degree. A diet low in fat and high in protein helps with overall weight loss. Exercises that target the glutes and hamstrings, such as squats, lunges, and high step-ups, can strengthen and help tone the buttocks and thighs. However, banana roll fat is subcutaneous, which is more difficult to get rid of than visceral fat.
Surgical Solutions
There are surgical solutions to help get rid of stubborn fat like banana rolls. Liposuction is a popular option. Persistent fat pockets are targeted, helping people achieve a more sculpted and toned physique. Liposuction can be performed under local anesthesia or sedation anesthesia, depending on the treatment area. Only small incisions are necessary. Patients will see visible results within weeks after surgery.
A butt lift, or gluteal lift, removes sagging excess skin and fat below the buttocks or from the backsides of the upper thighs. The procedure tightens the buttocks for a more toned appearance. A butt lift can be combined with liposuction.
Boca Raton Plastic Surgery Center
Board Certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Cristina Keusch, founded the practice in 1990. She is one of Boca Raton’s most experienced and respected surgeons who is dedicated to providing the highest standards in patient care. Contact us to schedule a consultation.