A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a cosmetic procedure that increases the size and shape of your butt while removing fat from other areas of the body. A Brazilian butt lift will transfer fat into the buttocks to achieve a fuller, rounder buttock contour.
Although the name suggests a “lift”, this procedure is unlike a facelift or breast lift. A Brazilian butt lift adds volume to and improves the shape of your butt, but it won’t improve sagging or excess skin. If you have sagging or excess skin, talk to your healthcare provider about a butt lift. During the procedure, excess fat is removed from the hips, abdomen, lower back, or thighs with liposuction, and a portion of this fat is then strategically injected into the buttocks.
What is a Brazilian butt lift?
A Brazilian butt lift (BBL) is a popular cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the shape and fullness of the buttocks. Unlike traditional butt lift surgeries that use implants, a BBL achieves its results through fat transfer. During this procedure, a doctor transfers fat from your belly, hips, lower back, or thighs to your buttocks. The result is more of an hourglass-shaped figure, with larger buttocks. A BBL can give you a smaller-looking waist if the fat comes from your belly or lower back. It's a two-step procedure. Doctors remove the fat using liposuction. This is a cosmetic procedure that sucks out fat with a small plastic tube called a cannula. Then the fat is injected into the buttock area.
A Brazilian butt lift can be risky and even fatal but is considered safer than other procedures to change how your buttocks look. In recent years, surgeons have changed the way they do it, to make it safer. A BBL is a semi-permanent procedure. The results can last for years and even more than a decade. Maintaining your weight can help the results last.
The final results of a Brazilian Butt lift may take up to six months to fully manifest. With proper care, the effects of a Brazilian butt lift can last for years. A Brazilian butt lift offers a natural way to enhance buttock shape and volume, but it's essential to weigh the benefits against the potential risks and follow safety precautions.
Why have a Brazilian butt lift?
Everyone’s buttocks proportion is determined by genetics; both the skeletal structure and how the body stores fat influence the appearance of the buttocks. You can achieve a healthy body weight and tone the muscles with a healthy diet and exercise, but many are unhappy with their buttock due to lack of shape. A Brazilian butt lift surgery can reshape the buttock and hips, lower back, and thighs. Patients consider a Brazilian butt lift to:
Enhance the curves of your lower body
Reduce fat pockets on your hips, thighs, or belly while adding fullness to the buttocks
Help clothing fit more attractively
Give a more youthful, aesthetically pleasing shape to flat buttocks
Enhance your overall proportions by improving the balance between your upper and lower body
Who is a good candidate for a Brazilian butt lift?
A Brazilian butt lift is a great option to improve the shape and size of the buttocks. Patients should keep in mind to have a realistic expectation of the outcome. Still, generally, if you agree with the following you are likely a good candidate for a Brazilian butt lift:
You want a buttock augmentation without implants
You have good skin tone in the hips and buttocks
You have adequate fat stores in other areas to harvest for injection into the buttocks
You are willing and able to avoid sitting directly on your buttocks for several weeks
What happens before a Brazilian butt lift procedure?
Before undergoing a Brazilian butt lift (BBL), several essential steps are taken to ensure a safe and successful procedure. Let's explore what happens before the surgery:
Health Evaluation and Lifestyle Assessment: Your surgeon will evaluate your overall health status and lifestyle habits. Pre-operative labs and tests may be conducted to gather necessary information. Making healthy choices before surgery can improve your recovery rate.
Location and Anesthesia: BBL is typically performed as an outpatient procedure. Anesthesia options include general anesthesia, intravenous sedation, and/or local anesthesia. After surgery, you'll spend a few hours in a waiting area before being released to your designated driver. You won't be able to drive yourself home due to medication effects.
Food and Drink Restrictions: Typically, fasting is necessary before surgery. Avoid eating or drinking after midnight on the eve of your BBL. An empty stomach prevents complications like nausea or aspiration during anesthesia. Clear liquids (water, tea, Gatorade, apple juice, etc.) may be allowed up to two hours before surgery to keep you hydrated.
Arranging Transportation and Post-Surgery Care: Arrange for someone to pick you up after the procedure.
Quit Unhealthy Habits: Quit smoking several weeks before surgery, as nicotine hinders healing. Follow your surgeon's instructions for pre-surgery diet and exercise guidelines.
Mental Preparation: Understand the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes. Mentally prepare for the surgery and recovery process.
Remember that safety and preparation are paramount. Following these steps ensures a smoother BBL experience and better post-operative results.
Brazilian butt lift vs. buttock implants
One significant advantage of Brazilian butt lift surgery is that it increases buttock size without implants. A professional cosmetic surgeon can guarantee a low-risk surgery with a natural-looking result. But for those who are very lean, there may not be enough fat to harvest, leading to them needing buttock implants to achieve their desired size increase. Buttock implants carry some risks such as capsular contracture and a higher risk of infection. Buttock implants can also look and feel less natural compared to a skillfully performed Brazilian butt lift.
What happens during a Brazilian butt lift surgery?
The 3 basic steps of having a Brazilian butt lift involve: fat is removed from the hips, lower back, thighs, abdomen, and/or other areas with liposuction. Purifying the extracted fat and preparing for transfer. Then the surgeon will inject the fat into specific points on the buttocks to increase volume and improve shape.
What are Brazilian butt lift advantages?
The procedure is safer than other surgeries, including silicone butt implants
The effects look natural
The effects can last a long time
It can boost your self-esteem
Your clothes may fit better or more comfortably
What are the risks or complications of a Brazilian butt lift?
Your butt contains many blood vessels and nerves. If the cannula strikes any of these structures during the surgery, it can lead to injury, a fat embolism, or death.
Bruising
Infection
Skin discoloration or changes in skin sensation
Swelling or poor wound healing
Recovering after your Brazilian butt lift
Although the pain after surgery is typically minimal and can be controlled through pain medication, patients are not allowed to sit or lie directly on the buttocks for about 2 weeks after a Brazilian butt lift. Patients will have to sleep on their stomachs or stand for all activities except for using the toilet. After the period (about 8 weeks), patients will be allowed to sit using a “donut” seat to avoid pressure on the buttocks. Patients will be allowed to return to work within 2 weeks of surgery. Results are typically final within 6 months of surgery after residual swelling has gone away and you are fully healed.
What happens after a Brazilian butt lift procedure?
After undergoing a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) procedure, there are crucial steps to follow during the recovery period to ensure optimal healing and long-lasting results. Here's what you can expect and how to care for yourself after a BBL:
Bruising and Swelling: Expect significant bruising, swelling, and soreness for at least 1 to 2 weeks. Remember that everyone heals differently, so be patient and avoid trying to rush the recovery process.
Medication: Your surgeon will prescribe painkillers, stomach liners, and antibiotics after your surgery. Make sure to take your medications as prescribed by your plastic surgeon.
Difficulties with Sitting: Pressure on your buttocks can interfere with blood circulation and can cause fewer fat cells to survive. Hence, it is important for you to not sit directly on your buttocks for at least 3 to 4 weeks. Doing so will also help maintain the new shape of your buttocks.
Compression Garment: Your plastic surgeon will provide you with a compression garment that will compress and cover all areas that fat was extracted from but with non-compressive buttock pockets. Wear your compression garment for at least 2 to 3 months after your Brazilian butt lift surgery. This will provide back and thigh support, prevent fluid buildup, and help maintain the shape and contours of your new buttocks.
Additional Recommendations: Avoid sitting on your buttocks for at least 3 weeks, longer if possible. If you have to sit, place a pillow under your thighs and sit as if your buttocks are hanging in the air. Refrain from driving for at least 6 weeks as pressing on the gas or brake will cause your body to push harder into the seat. Do not smoke or be around a smoker for at least 2 months. Smoking slows down healing and increases the risk of infection. Sleep lying on your stomach or in a rescue position for at least 2 months to avoid putting pressure on your buttocks. Do not wipe or clean the incisions until the stitches are removed. Water can affect sutures and possibly reopen the incision. Avoid body massages, saunas, or soaking in your bathtub for at least 2 months.
Remember that following these guidelines is essential for successful BBL recovery. Prioritize your health, adhere to your surgeon's instructions, and allow your body time to heal and adapt to the new contours of your buttocks.
How long does a Brazilian butt lift last?
The effects of a Brazilian butt lift should last several years. When performed by a qualified cosmetic surgeon, a Brazilian butt lift is a rewarding procedure with long-lasting results. Although the body will go through changes as you get older which can affect your results maintaining a consistent weight can help preserve that.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Brazilian butt lift (BBL) procedure offers a natural and effective way to enhance buttock shape and volume. By using the patient's own fat, BBLs avoid the use of implants and provide more natural-looking results. While the surgery comes with risks, following safety guidelines and post-operative care instructions is crucial for successful recovery. Patients can expect improved self-confidence, better body proportions, and enhanced comfort in clothing. If considering a BBL, consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss individual goals and expectations, ensuring a personalized approach to achieving the desired results.
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