Hip Dip Filler - Filling / Tightening Hip Dips with Sculptra or Autologous Fat?
At a Glance
- Natural hip dip correction
- Sculptra® or autologous fat
- Long-lasting results
- Individual consultation
Hip dips – natural indentations on the hips – are completely normal, but may be perceived as aesthetically bothersome. Modern procedures such as Sculptra® and Lipofilling (autologous fat) offer safe and natural options for correction.
At the private practice of Dr. Karl Schuhmann in Düsseldorf, we rely on well-tolerated and long-lasting procedures for body contouring. Hip dip corrections are planned individually to create a harmonious and natural hip line.
What are Hip Dips?
Hip dips, also known as "violin hips" or "trochanteric depressions", are natural indentations on the sides of the hips between the hip bone and the thigh. They are caused by the shape of the pelvic bone and the distribution of muscles and fat in the hip area.
Hip dips occur in many people, regardless of weight or fitness level. Exercise and diet can strengthen the musculature, but usually do not fully eliminate the indentations.
Hip Dip Filler - Correction Options
Sculptra®
Poly-L-lactic acid acts as a biostimulator and stimulates collagen production. The hip dips are gradually filled and smoothed.
- 2–3 sessions approximately 6 weeks apart
- No liposuction required
- Results last up to 2 years
- Short recovery times
Lipofilling (Autologous Fat)
Fatty tissue is harvested from other areas of the body, processed, and injected into the hip dips. Natural and long-lasting results.
- Generally one procedure is sufficient
- Autologous material – very well tolerated
- Long-lasting results
- Additional body contouring possible
Why not hyaluronic acid? In our practice, we generally do not recommend correction with conventional hyaluronic acid. It is broken down within a few months and can, in rare cases, migrate within the surrounding tissue – particularly in the hip and buttock area.
Hip Dip Correction with Sculptra®
The application of poly-L-lactic acid (Sculptra®) stimulates collagen production in the treated area, gradually smoothing the hip dips. This process is more time-consuming than filling with autologous fat, but does not require liposuction and has shorter recovery times.
Treatment Procedure
Marking & Anaesthesia
Dr. Schuhmann marks the areas to be treated. After a short contact time of the local anaesthetic, the treatment begins.
Injection
Sculptra® is injected via several small punctures using a specialised cannula. Painless, duration: 30–45 minutes.
Aftercare
The puncture sites are covered with sterile dressings and the treated area is gently massaged. After a short rest period, you may return home.
In the following days, the treated area may be slightly swollen and sensitive. Mild bruising or redness will subside within a few days. Physical exertion should be avoided.
Important: Regular, gentle self-massage in the first few days supports the even distribution of the injected product.
Over the following approximately six weeks, the poly-L-lactic acid promotes the body's own collagen production. The indentations fill naturally. The final result becomes visible approximately 2–3 months after the last treatment and lasts for several years.
Hip Dip Correction with Autologous Fat (Lipofilling)
Hip dip correction using autologous fat is an effective method for contouring the hips. Fatty tissue is harvested from other areas of the body such as the abdomen, thighs, or buttocks, processed, and injected into the indentations.
Liposuction
Harvesting of fatty tissue from desired areas (abdomen, thighs, etc.)
Processing
Purification and preparation of the fat for maximum survival rate of the fat cells
Injection
Even placement of the fat into the hip dips for a harmonious hip line
After the Procedure
After the procedure, swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort may occur, but these subside within a few days. Physical exertion should be avoided for approximately two weeks.
Recommendation: Wearing compression garments and gentle movement support the healing process.
Advantages of Lipofilling
- Natural correction using autologous material
- Excellent tolerability
- Long-lasting and naturally appearing results
- Additional body contouring through liposuction
Preparation and Aftercare
Preparation for a Hip Dip Filler
- Avoid blood-thinning medications in the week prior to the procedure (following medical advice)
- Pause nicotine use where possible
- Comprehensive consultation with Dr. Schuhmann
Aftercare
- Rest during the first 2–3 weeks
- Avoid excessive heat (sauna, sunbed)
- Avoid pressure on treated areas
- For autologous fat: wear compression garments
Experience and Expertise
Dr. Karl Schuhmann has more than 30 years of experience in plastic and aesthetic surgery and is a specialist in the fields of injectables and body lifting.
In a personal consultation, he will present your individual options and simulate the expected result. Every treatment is precisely tailored to your anatomical characteristics and wishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Sculptra® or autologous fat – which is more suitable?
This depends on the starting volume, the desired outcome, and willingness to undergo a surgical procedure. Sculptra® is minimally invasive and stimulates collagen production, whilst autologous fat delivers immediate volume and contour. In a personal consultation, we will find the best solution for you.
How many sessions are typically required?
Sculptra® often requires 2–3 sessions approximately 6 weeks apart. Autologous fat is usually sufficient in one procedure; in some cases, a top-up may be beneficial.
How long do the results last?
Sculptra® stimulates collagen production over many months and lasts up to 2 years. A proportion of the autologous fat remains permanently. Lifestyle and weight fluctuations can influence longevity.
Are the treatments painful?
Both procedures are performed under local anaesthesia. Sculptra® injections are painless and take 30–45 minutes. Lipofilling is carried out under local anaesthesia or twilight sedation. A mild sensation of pressure may occur after treatment.
What are the costs of filling hip dips?
Costs vary depending on the method (Sculptra® vs. autologous fat) and the extent of treatment. Following a thorough assessment, we will create an individual treatment plan with a transparent cost overview.
Über den Autor
Facharzt für Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie & Handchirurg
Mit mehr als 30.000 Eingriffen und mehrjähriger Tätigkeit als Chefarzt führt Dr. Schuhmann seit 2016 als Gründer von artethic® seine Praxen in Düsseldorf und Berlin.