There can be many reasons for people to be unhappy with their rear end. Whether it is a loss in lift due to aging or fluctuations in weight or you are unhappy with the way you look or feel in clothes, you may be looking for a solution. While implants can help, they may not be the right option for everyone. We are proud to offer patients an alternative and less invasive option to achieve rounder, fuller, and perkier buttocks: the Brazilian butt lift.
What is a Brazilian butt lift?
A Brazilian butt lift, also known as a BBL, is a form of cosmetic surgery in which fat is transferred to your buttocks. Using liposuction, fat is harvested from other areas of the body and then purified before being injected into specific areas of your buttocks that need more volume.
Benefits
This procedure has become increasingly popular compared to other treatment options due to the smaller incisions, lower risk of infection, more natural-looking results, and the benefits of removing unwanted fat deposits to the buttocks through liposuction. Also considered a form of body contouring, many people seek Brazilian butt lifts to improve their shape or figure between their upper and lower body.
Procedure
A Brazilian butt lift is typically performed as an outpatient procedure that can vary anywhere in length from 2-3 hours. The procedure is often performed under general anesthesia for patient comfort and safety. However, in cases where a smaller volume of fat is transferred, it may be performed with local anesthesia instead.
Fat is removed from the hips, lower back, back, or abdomen using liposuction which involves making a small incision and removing the fat through a surgical tube, or cannula. The removed fat is then treated and purified so that it can be placed back into the body safely. It is then injected in specific areas of the buttocks to create a rounder, more full-looking buttocks. The incisions are then closed using stitches and compression garments applied to aid in the recovery process.
What are the potential side effects?
As with any procedure, there can be some side effects associated with this procedure including:
- Infection
- Lumps under the skin
- Pain
- Scarring
Recovery and results
During recovery, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and sensitivity that should improve within the first few weeks.
One important factor to consider before opting for a Brazilian butt lift is during the beginning of your recovery you cannot sit or lie directly on your buttocks for a minimum of two weeks. This includes while sleeping. After two weeks, your doctor may allow you to modify these positions using a pillow under your thighs or a doughnut seat cushion to help you avoid placing pressure on your buttocks. Typically, around 2-3 weeks during recovery, most patients can return to normal non-strenuous activities such as work but be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions.
Your results can fluctuate throughout the recovery process. They may appear exaggerated immediately following the procedure but will settle after a few weeks with the final results expected around the 6-month mark. Overall, the results of a Brazilian butt lift are designed to last years provided that patients maintain a stable weight through proper diet and regular exercise.
For more information on Brazilian butt lifts or to schedule a consultation at our San Diego office, please contact Eastlake Cosmetic Surgery today.