BBL with Fat Grafting and Fat Transfer Brazilian Butt Lift

What is a BBL or Brazilian butt lift?

A Brazilian butt lift, or BBL is a procedure that transfers fat from one area of the body with excess fat to the buttocks to increase its size and shape. It combines liposuction of the abdomen, flanks, lower back or thighs with a transfer of the fat to the buttocks.  Overall, 90% of patients surveyed are very satisfied with the procedure.

 

What are the benefits of a BBL Brazilian Buttock Enhancement?

A Brazilian butt lift can:

• Increase fullness, roundness, and projection of the buttocks
• Improve the balance of your figure
• Improve asymmetries
• Enhance your self-image and self-confidence
• Uses your own tissue and not butt implants for a more natural look and feel

What does BBL mean?

BBL meaning is a Brazilian Butt Lift.  It is called a BBL or Brazilian butt lift because Brazilian woman tend to have a fuller and rounder buttocks due to their genetics.  There is no amount of exercise or a specific diet which will give you a similar result.

 

What is BBL surgery?

The BBL surgery and fat grafting is performed as an out-patient procedure.  Since a Brazilian butt lift combines liposuction and fat transfer, it is usually done under general anesthesia for safety and comfort.  The procedure takes 2 – 3 hours depending on how much liposuction and fat transfer is performed.

BBL surgery involves the following steps:

 

1. Liposuction:

Liposuction is performed through very small, inconspicuous incisions to harvest the fat. Diluted local anesthesia (tumescent formula technique) is infused into the areas to be liposuctioned to reduce bleeding and trauma. A thin hollow tube, or cannula, which is attached to a surgical vacuum, is inserted through the incisions.  The fat is then suctioned into a sterile canister.  The small incisions are then closed with sutures.

 

2. Fat Preparation

The fat is then prepared for injection.  It is cleansed with saline in a special canister and maybe be centrifuged to remove the excess oils and debris.  It also may be strained to remove larger fat globules which are not good for fat transfer.

 

3. Fat injection

The fat is then drawn into syringes with special cannulas. The fat is then injected into your buttocks through very small, hidden incisions, into the areas that require fullness and reshaping. These areas are marked preoperatively prior to the procedure.

 

Am I a good candidate for a BBL or Brzilian butt lift?

A good candidate for a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is someone who is in good overall health, has a stable weight, and desires to enhance the shape and volume of their buttocks. However, not everyone is an ideal candidate for this procedure. Some factors that may make someone a suitable candidate for a BBL include:

 

1. Having sufficient fat deposits: Since a BBL involves liposuction to collect fat from other areas of the body (e.g., abdomen, thighs, flanks), the candidate should have enough fat available for transfer to the buttocks.

2. Healthy BMI: Individuals with a BMI closer to the normal or slightly overweight range are generally better candidates for a BBL. Extremely low or high BMI may not be ideal for the procedure.

3. Realistic expectations: It’s crucial for candidates to have realistic expectations about the results of the BBL. While the procedure can improve the shape and size of the buttocks, it may not create dramatic changes for everyone.

4. No smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of complications during surgery and impair the healing process. Candidates should be non-smokers or commit to quitting smoking for a period before and after the procedure.

5. Good skin elasticity: Candidates with good skin elasticity are more likely to achieve better results because the skin can adapt well to the changes in the buttocks’ shape.

6. Emotional and mental readiness: Like any elective surgical procedure, BBL requires emotional and mental preparedness. Candidates should have a positive attitude and be psychologically ready for the process and potential outcomes.

7. No underlying health issues: Candidates should be in good overall health and not have any significant medical conditions that could pose risks during surgery or recovery.

What do I need to do before my BBL surgery?

Before undergoing a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), it’s essential to prepare yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally to ensure a smooth and successful procedure and recovery. Here are some essential steps and considerations to follow before your BBL:

 

1. Research and choose a qualified surgeon: Take the time to research and select a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience in performing BBLs and who is an expert in the procedure like Dr. DeConti. Read reviews, check BBL before-and-after photos, and schedule consultations to discuss your goals and ask any questions you may have.

2. Communicate your expectations: During your consultation, be clear and honest about your aesthetic goals and what you hope to achieve with the Brazilian butt lift. Your surgeon can provide realistic expectations and help you understand what the procedure can and cannot do for you.

3. Medical evaluation: Undergo a thorough medical evaluation with your plastic surgeon to assess your overall health and suitability for the procedure. Disclose any medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are taking.

4. Stop smoking and avoid certain medications: If you are a smoker, your surgeon may ask you to quit smoking for a specified period before and after the surgery, as smoking can interfere with the healing process. Additionally, avoid certain medications, like blood-thinning drugs, unless prescribed by your physician.

5. Maintain a stable weight: It’s important to maintain a stable weight leading up to the surgery. Significant fluctuations in weight can impact the outcome of the BBL.

6. Arrange for a support system: BBL is a surgical procedure that requires a period of recovery. Arrange for someone to assist you during the initial days after surgery, as you may need help with daily activities.

7. Follow preoperative instructions: Your surgeon will provide you with specific preoperative instructions to follow in the days leading up to your BBL. These may include dietary guidelines, restrictions on certain activities, and taking prescribed medications.

8. Plan for the recovery period: BBL recovery can take several weeks, and during this time, you’ll need to avoid sitting or lying on your buttocks directly. Plan for time off work, childcare, and other responsibilities during this period.

9. Get necessary supplies: Stock up on essentials you’ll need during your recovery, such as loose-fitting clothing, compression garments, pain medication (as prescribed), and other items recommended by your surgeon.

10. Stay positive and patient: Preparing for surgery can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Stay positive, trust your surgeon, and be patient with the recovery process. Results will gradually become more apparent as swelling subsides and your body heals.

Remember that each person’s situation is unique, and Dr. DeConti will provide personalized instructions based on your specific needs and medical history. Follow his advice closely to ensure a safe and successful BBL experience.

 

What can I expect after my BBL procedure?

The results of the Brazilian butt lift are immediately visible.  During the healing phase, the fat needs to “take”.  This means the newly injected fat gets its blood supply and becomes a permanent part of you. Some of the initial volume you experience after your fat grafting procedure may fade as some of the fat is absorbed by your body.

On average patients will retain 60-80% of the transferred fat.  As you gain or lose weight, your results may change as the transferred fat can grow or shrink just like any other fat in your body. This procedure offers natural-looking and feeling results because it uses your body tissue for the buttock augmentation.  Also, the risk of infection is very low compared to buttock implants which are considered a foreign body and have no inherent blood supply to protect them.

 

 

What is the recovery for a BBL?

Most patients will take a week off of work and be back to full activity in four weeks.  One may be required to wear a special surgical garment which may help mold and shape the area.  It is recommended one limit sitting on the area for the first week will the fat “takes” and gets its blood supply.  After one week, you should shift your weight every 20 minutes for three weeks to continue to allow the areas to heal.

 

What are the risks of a BBL?

Like any surgical procedure, a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) comes with inherent risks and potential complications. While the majority of BBL procedures are performed safely, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks before deciding to undergo the surgery. Some of the risks associated with BBL include:

 

1. Fat embolism: This is a rare but serious complication that can occur when fat is accidentally injected into a blood vessel and travels to the lungs or other organs. Fat embolism can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.

2. Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection. Surgeons take precautions to minimize the risk of infection, but it can still occur. Infections may require antibiotics or additional medical treatment.

3. Seroma and hematoma: Seroma refers to the collection of fluid under the skin, and a hematoma is a localized collection of blood. These can occur after surgery and may need to be drained.

4. Skin irregularities: Uneven fat distribution or skin contour irregularities may occur, resulting in an unsatisfactory appearance. These issues may require additional procedures for correction.

5. Poor wound healing: Some individuals may experience slower or impaired wound healing, particularly if they have underlying health conditions or habits like smoking.

6. Changes in sensation: Temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation in the treated and donor areas may occur, such as numbness or increased sensitivity.

7. Scarring: As mentioned earlier, small scars may form at the liposuction incision sites. While they are usually inconspicuous, individual healing can vary.

8. Anesthesia risks: General anesthesia carries its own set of risks, including allergic reactions and adverse reactions to medications.

9. Unsatisfactory results: Despite the surgeon’s best efforts, the final outcome may not meet the patient’s expectations. It’s essential to have realistic expectations and communicate openly with your surgeon about your goals.

10. Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism: These are blood clot-related complications that can be serious and even life-threatening. Moving and walking after surgery are crucial to help prevent DVT.

What is a Skinny BBL?

A “skinny BBL” refers to a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure that aims to achieve a more natural and subtle enhancement of the buttocks. A traditional BBL involves liposuction to remove excess fat from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, and then injecting that fat into the buttocks to add volume and improve their shape.

 

However, some individuals may desire a more conservative or “skinny” enhancement, which means the surgeon will use a smaller amount of transferred fat to achieve a more subtle result. The goal is to maintain a leaner and slender appearance while still achieving a slight improvement in buttock size and shape.

 

Will I have scars after my BBL?

Yes, it is possible to have scars after a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure. The scars typically result from the small incisions made during the liposuction phase of the BBL, where fat is harvested from donor areas like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks. These incisions are necessary to insert the liposuction cannula, a thin tube used to remove the fat.

 

However, BBL incisions are generally small and strategically placed in inconspicuous areas to minimize visible scarring. Skilled plastic surgeons aim to place the incisions in natural skin creases or areas that can be easily concealed by clothing. With proper care and healing, the scars should fade over time and become less noticeable.

 

To reduce the risk of prominent scars, it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions diligently. This may include keeping the incisions clean, avoiding sun exposure to the healing scars, and using scar-reducing products or silicone gel sheets as recommended by your surgeon.

 

Keep in mind that individual healing varies, and some people may have a predisposition to develop more visible scars than others. However, reputable plastic surgeons strive to minimize scarring and achieve the best possible aesthetic outcome for their patients.

 

How much is a BBL?

The BBL cost  can vary significantly based on several factors, including the location of the surgical facility, the experience and reputation of the plastic surgeon, the complexity of the procedure, and additional expenses related to anesthesia, operating room fees, and post-operative care.

 

The Brazilian butt lift cost ranges from $8,000 to $15,000. However, this is just an estimate, and prices can be higher or lower depending on the factors mentioned above.

 

It’s essential to consider that choosing a surgeon based solely on price is not advisable. Your safety and the quality of the results should be the top priorities. Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in performing BBLs and a good reputation for delivering safe and satisfying outcomes like Dr. DeConti.

 

 

Dr. DeConti is considered one of the finest BBL surgeons and body contouring surgeons in the South. If you are interested in learning more about buttock augmentation and the Brazilian butt lift, call 804 673-8000, and schedule a consultation with Dr. DeConti at DeConti Plastic Surgery today.