Can I Get Iliac Crest Implants (Pelvic Plasty) In The U.S.?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am interested in hip pelvic implants but not the kind that are simply stuffed into a pocket, I’ve been to numerous doctors and the only type of procedure they do are standard hip implants stuffed in a pocket. I have contacted a hospital in Seoul that is known for pelvic plasty but noticed one of your replies on Real Self in response to a similar inquiry. I am very lean and narrow hips and are looking to round out my figure. I am also a trans woman which only adds to my hip deficiencies. I have attached photos for your review. Look forward to hearing back from you! Thanks so much

A: Thank you for your inquiry and sending your picture. The type of hip augmentation to which you refer is that of iliac crest implants which provides a bony augmentation to the upper hip region rather than a lower soft tissue augmentation over the greater trochanteric region of the hips. This is a procedure known as Pelvic Plasty. Until recently only South Korea offered such pelvic widening implants made of titanium…which is the ideal material for augmenting the bony iliac crest given their side position on the bone and the external forces to which they are exposed. In April 2024 the FDA approved the titanium iliac crest plates used in Pelvic Plasty for clinical use here in the U.S.

I recently (August 2024) started perf0rming the Pelvic Plasty procedure which has become a composite approach combining titanium iliac crest plates with sub iliac silicone implants that attach (hook into) the under side of the plate.