Brazilian butt lifts, commonly called BBLs, have risen in popularity because of their natural-looking results. The procedure is simple and minimally invasive. It involves removing fat via liposuction from one part of the body and injecting it into the rear. The goal is to help patients achieve an hourglass figure. This article will help patients understand what to expect during the BBL procedure.
In a Brazilian Butt Lift, the cosmetic surgeon will first make four to eight small incisions and insert suction cannulas to remove unwanted fat from the back, stomach, waist, thighs, or arms. The fat cells are then purified to ensure only healthy fat is used. Next, the purified fat cells are reinjected into the buttocks through three to five incisions. Finally, the incisions are stitched shut.
Brazilian Butt Lift patients are put under anesthesia throughout this entire process. Once the procedure is complete, the staff will move the patient to a recovery room until they wake up. At this point, the patient is discharged. Due to the lingering effects of sedation, patients should have a loved one take them home.
A BBL will not affect sagging and excess skin. Since the procedure involves transferring fat from one part of the body to another, patients would need an additional procedure to do so. It is common for surgeons to do a BBL and abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) simultaneously: Fat cells from the stomach can be relocated to the buttocks, then the excess skin from the abdomen can be “tucked in.” However, some cosmetic surgeons recommend completing the tummy tuck after the patient can heal from the BBL.
A BBL is an outpatient procedure. It can be done in a single appointment of two to four hours. It will be longer if there is a large volume of fat cells or the surgeon must remove fat from multiple areas.
Abstaining from alcohol and smoking for two to three weeks before getting a BBL is recommended. Other tips include eating a healthy diet and following a regular exercise routine; do not attempt to lose weight rapidly before the procedure. In addition, we highly encourage patients to prepare their homes for recovery — stock up on groceries, loose-fitting clothing, and medications.
Patients should make mental preparations before both the BBL consultation and procedure. During the consultation, the cosmetic surgeon will ask questions about the following:
It is possible to have negative feelings in the few days after surgery and once the results are first noticeable. This is common for any body modification, from cosmetic surgery to tattoos and piercings. However, do not panic; this feeling typically disappears once the initial shock of a changed appearance subsides.
Cosmetic surgeons have a legal duty to inform the patient of any risk associated with their BBL before starting the procedure. Risks of BBLs include infection and skin discoloration. In addition, if a cannula strikes a blood vessel, it may result in a fat embolism, severe injury, or even death.
We recommend patients have a loved one or hired help for the first few days after a BBL. Most patients can return to normal activities within 10 to 14 days and fully recover within two to three months. For others, it may take up to six months to fully recover.
However long it takes to recover from a BBL, patients should follow the surgeon’s post-care guidelines:
Patients can expect swelling and bruising on their buttocks. Incisions may bleed, and fluid may accumulate around the surgical sites. If excessive, the cosmetic surgeon will insert a temporary drain for several days after the BBL. Prescription and over-the-counter medications can help manage pain and discomfort during recovery.
BBLs are semi-permanent. The results can last anywhere from several years to decades. No artificial implants are involved, so change is inevitable as the patient ages. To help maintain results, patients should take the recovery period seriously. Exercising, eating well, and maintaining a healthy weight can also help a BBL last longer.
The dream physique is achievable. With proper preparation and postoperative care, BBL surgery can help patients feel confident in their skin. Consult a cosmetic surgeon to learn more about buttock augmentation surgery.
Request an appointment here: https://www.paulcdillonmd.com or call Paul C. Dillon, MD Inc at (847) 429-3185 for an appointment in our Schaumburg office.
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