This past weekend, our diplomatic duties brought us to Washington, D.C.—and what a fascinating time to be in the nation’s capital! Our visit coincided with two major commemorations: National Flag Day on Saturday, and the 250th birthday of the United States Army, the oldest branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.

Although Flag Day isn’t a federal holiday, it’s a meaningful observance for all Americans—a chance to reflect on our shared values, history, and the symbol that binds us together. This year’s celebrations were particularly patriotic, overlapping with the massive Army parade that honored not only the Army’s milestone but also the 79th birthday of President Trump.

Truth be told, we didn’t brave the crowds and rain to attend the festivities in person. Like many of you, we caught glimpses of the event on television. The parade was a true spectacle—thousands of troops marched in historic and modern uniforms representing every major U.S. conflict since the Revolutionary War. Each war was represented by 60 soldiers in period costume, followed by 400 troops in today’s battle dress. Over 100 military vehicles participated, from Abrams tanks to Apache helicopters and Chinooks.

Instead, we spent our free time soaking in the culture and beauty of Washington. A highlight was our visit to the National Gallery of Art, a must-see treasure trove for anyone who appreciates history, creativity, and the power of the human spirit. We also walked the charming streets of D.C., admiring the stately architecture and reflecting on the significance of the city’s many monuments.

And on a more personal note, we also celebrated Dr. Ekstrom’s 73rd birthday on Friday. It was the perfect kickoff to a weekend filled with patriotism, history, and gratitude.

Looking forward to seeing many of you in the office soon!

As close as we got to a “parade” was visiting General John Pershing’s Memorial to our participation in WW I.

An engrave sign on the Department of Justice building – let us not forget this fact!

Dr. Ekstrom taking in Francois Clouet’s “ A Lady in her Bath” from 1571

Dr. Ekstrom celebrating #73 at Modena in Washington.

Forty years ago, when I started my practice, many of my patients came in with a different goal: they wanted smaller buttocks. Liposuction to reduce volume in the hips, buttocks, and thighs was among the most requested procedures. Today, the pendulum has swung dramatically. Over the last 15 to 20 years, cultural ideals have shifted. Full, rounded buttocks are now celebrated, symbolizing vitality, femininity, and youth. From fitness influencers to celebrities, the emphasis has moved toward enhancing curves—not minimizing them.

This change in aesthetic preference has led to a dramatic rise in buttocks augmentation procedures. Women (and some men) now seek more projection and contour to the gluteal region, often as part of an overall body reshaping plan.

There are two primary options for buttocks enhancement: gluteal implants and fat grafting, the latter commonly known as the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL).

Implants are silicone devices surgically placed to add volume and shape. This method can be effective, especially in lean individuals who lack sufficient fat to harvest for grafting. However, gluteal implants carry higher complication risks than other implant-based procedures like breast augmentation. Infection, implant shifting, and unnatural feel or appearance are more frequent concerns.

Fat grafting, or BBL, uses a patient’s own fat—typically harvested from the abdomen, flanks, thighs, or back—through gentle liposuction. After processing, the fat is reinjected strategically into the buttocks to enhance volume and shape. This technique not only enhances the buttocks but also slims the areas where the fat was harvested, creating a harmonious silhouette. The feel and appearance of the result are typically more natural than with implants, and because it uses your own tissue, the risk of infection is significantly reduced.

Of course, not all patients are ideal candidates for fat transfer. Those with limited donor fat may find implants to be their only viable option.

That said, my strong preference—when sufficient donor fat is available—is fat grafting. It is less invasive overall, has a lower complication rate, and provides a more organic result. The key is a personalized plan, tailored to your body, your goals, and your safety.

The art of body contouring is not about chasing trends—it is about enhancing your natural beauty in a way that makes you feel confident and radiant.

Interested in improving an issue of concern?

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Ekstrom today!

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