Understanding the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) and Its Risks
The Brazilian Butt Lift, commonly referred to as a BBL, has been in the spotlight for numerous reasons, including some tragic incidents. In August 2018, 29-year-old British woman Leah Cambridge passed away after undergoing a BBL procedure in Turkey. Another British woman also lost her life later that year under similar circumstances. These fatalities prompted the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) to recommend that British surgeons halt the performance of BBLs.
What is a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)?
A Brazilian Butt Lift is a cosmetic surgery designed to enhance the size and shape of the buttocks. This procedure is highly popular worldwide due to its ability to create a fuller, more curvaceous appearance.
The BBL procedure begins with liposuction to extract fat from a donor area of the patient’s body, such as the thighs, hips, flanks, or abdomen. This fat is then purified and processed before being carefully injected into the buttocks to achieve the desired augmentation.
Potential Risks of a BBL
While the procedure may sound straightforward, it carries several risks. Some of the rare but possible complications include:
- Bruising
- Stretch marks
- Bleeding (hematoma)
- Infection
- Poor wound healing
- Blood clots
- Deep vein thrombosis
- Numbness or changes in skin sensation
- Asymmetry
- Scarring
- Looseness of the skin
- Complications with anaesthesia
- Cardiac or pulmonary complications
A particularly severe risk associated with a BBL is a fat embolism. This life-threatening condition occurs when a fat clot enters the bloodstream and travels to the heart or lungs, potentially leading to fatal consequences. Fat embolisms can happen during the second stage of the BBL if fat is mistakenly injected into the muscle or if a vein is damaged.
Preventing Complications in BBL Surgery
Surgeons can take several precautions to minimise the risks associated with a BBL, especially the risk of fat embolisms. These precautions include:
- Avoiding the injection of fat into the deep muscle
- Steering clear of gluteal veins and the sciatic nerve
- Using the appropriately sized cannula
- Ensuring the cannula is only in motion when injecting
- Constantly monitoring the position of the cannula to prevent deep penetration
It is also crucial for surgeons to inform patients about the risks of fat embolisms and discuss alternative surgical options before proceeding with the BBL.
Steps Patients Can Take for a Safe BBL
If you are considering a BBL but are concerned about its safety, there are several steps you can take to ensure a safer procedure:
- Research the Procedure: Educate yourself about the BBL. There is ample information available online, which can help you understand what to expect and verify if the information provided by your surgeon aligns with what you have learned.
- Research the Surgeon: Verify the surgeon’s credentials. Are they certified? What are their qualifications and experience levels? Check for reviews and testimonials from previous patients. In the UK, you can confirm a surgeon’s registration through the General Medical Council’s website.
- Have a Consultation: Insist on a consultation with the actual surgeon, not just a representative. Many dissatisfied patients report not meeting their surgeon until the day of the surgery. During your consultation, discuss your medical history and make sure the surgeon explains all potential risks.
- Consider Aftercare: Ensure the procedure cost includes aftercare. Understand the follow-up process and whether you will have access to the same surgeon if complications arise, as well as any additional costs that may be incurred.
Centre for Surgery’s Approach
At Centre for Surgery, we currently offer gluteal sculpting with superficial fat transfer, which involves injecting fat above the muscle. This technique significantly lowers the chance of complications compared to traditional BBL methods.
If you are interested in discussing a fat transfer or learning more about the risks and safety measures associated with a BBL, please contact us today. Our team is dedicated to providing safe and effective cosmetic procedures tailored to your needs.
