Plastic Surgery Blog

How to Get Rid of Banana Rolls

Banana rolls—those stubborn pockets of fat just below the buttocks—can be frustrating, even with a dedicated fitness routine. If you’ve been wondering how to get rid of them, you’re not alone. While genetics play a significant role in fat distribution, there are both natural and professional solutions to smooth out the area and achieve a more sculpted look.

What Causes Banana Rolls?

Several factors contribute to banana rolls:  

  • Genetics – Certain individuals are predisposed to storing fat below the buttocks.
  • Weight Gain & Fat Distribution – Excess weight often settles in areas determined by genetics.
  • Muscle Tone & Skin Elasticity – Less toned gluteal muscles or reduced skin firmness can accentuate the rolls.
  • Posture & Body Mechanics – Daily habits like sitting or standing can influence fat distribution.
  • Hormonal Changes – Shifts during pregnancy or menopause may increase fat in this region.

Identifying the cause is key to selecting an effective solution.

Non-Surgical Ways to Reduce Banana Rolls

1. Diet & Exercise

Banana rolls are localized fat, making spot reduction challenging. However, a comprehensive approach can help:

  • Cardio Workouts – Running, cycling, or HIIT encourage overall fat reduction.
  • Strength Training – Exercises targeting the glutes and thighs improve tone and lift.
    • Squats
    • Lunges
    • Hip thrusts
    • Deadlifts
    • Step-ups
  • Healthy Eating – A balanced diet with lean protein, fiber, and healthy fats aids fat metabolism.
  • Hydration & Sleep – Adequate water intake and rest support fat loss and skin condition.

2. Lifestyle Adjustments

  • Posture Awareness – Maintaining proper posture can improve muscle activation and prevent unnecessary fat accumulation.
  • Lymphatic Drainage & Massage – Techniques like foam rolling and lymphatic drainage massages can temporarily reduce puffiness in the area.
  • Compression Therapy – Wearing compression garments can provide mild contouring effects while aiding in circulation.

Professional Treatments for Banana Roll Reduction

3. Non-Invasive Fat Reduction

For those preferring non-surgical options, these treatments provide effective outcomes: 

CoolSculpting (Cryolipolysis)

  • Applies controlled cooling to eliminate fat cells.
  • Results develop over several months.
  • Requires no recovery time.
  • Suited for individuals near their target weight with persistent fat.

Interested in a non-invasive method? Explore CoolSculpting in San Diego.

Radiofrequency (RF) Skin Tightening

  • Promotes collagen to firm and smooth skin.
  • Ideal for minor fat deposits and laxity.
  • Minimal recovery needed.

Laser Lipolysis (SculpSure)

  • Uses laser energy to break down fat cells.
  • Effective for those close to their ideal weight.
  • Short recovery period.

Want firmer skin? Learn about Opus Body Contouring for smoother results.

Surgical Solutions for More Defined Contours

4. Liposuction

For stubborn banana rolls that don’t respond to diet and exercise, liposuction is one of the most effective solutions.

  • Removes fat directly for immediate and lasting results.
  • Can be combined with a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) to enhance gluteal shape.
  • Recovery time: 1-2 weeks.

If you’re considering a more dramatic transformation, Liposuction & Body Contouring could help refine your silhouette.

5. Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)

For those wanting enhanced curves, a BBL uses fat transfer to reshape the buttocks while removing unwanted banana rolls.

  • Removes fat via liposuction and reinjects it into the buttocks.
  • Creates a rounder, lifted appearance.
  • Recovery time: 2-3 weeks.

Want to sculpt your body with fat transfer? Explore the benefits of a Brazilian Butt Lift for a curvier, more contoured figure.

Choosing the Right Treatment

The best approach depends on your goals, body type, and lifestyle. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon can help determine the most effective treatment based on your needs.

Not sure what’s best for you? Schedule a consultation to explore your options with an expert.

FAQs

  1. Can exercise alone get rid of banana rolls? It can slim things down and tone up the area, but for some folks—especially if genetics are in the mix—it might not totally erase them.
  2. How long do non-invasive treatments take to show results? Treatments like CoolSculpting or laser lipo usually take 3-4 months to fully kick in as your body clears out the fat cells.
  3. Will liposuction permanently remove banana rolls? Yes, liposuction permanently removes fat cells, but maintaining results requires a healthy lifestyle.
  4. Can banana rolls come back after treatment? Gain some weight, and fat might creep back in—though it could settle a little differently this time.
  5. Which treatment is best for me? The best treatment depends on your goals—non-invasive treatments work well for mild fat reduction, while liposuction is better for more significant contouring.

Final Thoughts

Banana rolls are something that many people are frustrated about – or constantly dealing with but they don’t have to define how you see yourself. You might decide to focus on eating well and staying active, or you could look into non-surgical fat reduction, or even think about surgical contouring—there are real ways to smooth things out and get that sculpted look you’re hoping for.

Here at Feel Beautiful Plastic Surgery in San Diego, we’re all about finding a plan that’s just right for you—something that fits your body, your goals, and what you’re comfortable with. If you’re considering treatment, we’d really love to sit down with you and talk it through. We can go over your options and figure out together what’s going to work best for you and your goals.

Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation and let’s find the perfect approach for you!

Dr. Steve Laverson

Great cosmetic surgery results provide tremendous value for your lifetime. With more than 30 years of experience and over 40,000 surgeries performed, Dr. Laverson is a highly regarded plastic surgeon both locally in San Diego and internationally.

Recent Posts

How to Fix Jowls: Your Guide to a Firmer Jawline

Jowls—sagging skin and fat along the jawline—show aging. Several treatments are available to lift and…

1 week ago

Mini vs Full Tummy Tuck: Differences in Techniques & Results

For many patients considering a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), a common question is whether they need…

1 week ago

Breast Augmentation Requirements: Are You a Candidate?

Breast augmentation is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the United States, with…

1 week ago

Natural Breast Augmentation – Achieving a Subtle, Natural Look

What Are the Most Natural-Looking Breast Implants? Achieving a natural look with breast augmentation isn’t…

1 week ago

How to Get Rid of Hip Dips

Hip dips are the inward curves some people notice below their hip bones. They happen…

3 weeks ago

Breast Lift vs. Breast Augmentation: How to Choose the Right Option for You

If you're considering breast enhancement, one of the first questions that comes up is: Should…

2 months ago