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Despite eating sensibly and exercising regularly, it can be challenging for many people to improve their body fat distribution. Despite being at your target weight, you may still be unhappy with the shape of your body. Many women desire an improved waist-to-hip ratio, in other words, larger and rounder hips with a smaller waist. Although many women may be unable to eat sensibly and exercise to achieve this desired body shape, a Brazilian butt lift or BBL can help.
RELATED: Brazilian Butt Lift FAQs – Q&As about BBL Surgery
What is a Brazilian Butt lift?
A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a cosmetic surgery procedure that aims to enhance the shape and size of the buttocks. The procedure involves the transfer of fat from other areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs, to the buttocks through liposuction. The fat is then purified and re-injected into the buttocks to add volume and shape. The goal of the surgery is to create a rounder, more lifted, and aesthetically pleasing buttocks appearance. Previously, the main technique for enhancing the buttocks was with butt implants. When it comes to butt implants vs BBL, implants have a much higher risk of complications. BBL surgery with fat transfer has become a very popular procedure due to its more favourable safety profile.
The procedure can be done under general anaesthesia and typically takes between 2-4 hours. After the surgery, patients will need to wear a compression garment for several weeks to help with swelling and support the new contours of the buttocks. Recovery time can vary, but patients can usually return to work and other normal activities within 2-4 weeks.
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Am I suitable for natural BBL Surgery?
The best candidates for a natural BBL surgery are generally those who have enough fat in other areas of their body, such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs, to be able to transfer to the buttocks. This will ensure that the results of the surgery will be natural-looking and proportional to the patient’s body.
Other factors that make a person a good candidate for a natural BBL include:
- Good overall health and no medical conditions that could compromise healing or increase the risk of complications
- Realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery
- Non-smokers, as smoking can delay healing and increase the risk of complications
- Mature adults, as their body shape tends to be stable
- People who are within 10% of their ideal body weight
It would be best if you also had good skin elasticity, as loose or sagging skin may affect the results of BBL surgery. You will also need to be a suitable candidate for liposuction with sufficient fat reserves. Having said that, our surgeons can also perform a skinny BBL, which is a type of mini BBL surgery designed for women and men with lean body frames and limited subcutaneous fat deposits.
Can men get a BBL?
Yes, men can get a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery. However, it is less common for men to seek out this type of surgery, as men typically have less fat in the areas typically used for fat transfer, such as the abdomen, hips, and thighs. Additionally, men’s buttocks anatomy is different from women’s, and men may have different aesthetic goals for their buttock’s appearance.
That being said, BBL can be performed on men using the same principles and techniques as with women. The procedure can use the fat from the love handles, abdomen, or thighs to enhance the buttock’s size and shape.
Men considering a BBL to have a consultation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to discuss their goals and expectations and to make sure that the surgery is the right choice for them. The surgeon will also be able to examine the patient’s body and determine if they have enough fat for the procedure.
Preparing for a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
Preparing for a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery requires careful planning and adherence to specific guidelines to ensure the procedure goes smoothly and that the recovery is as swift and comfortable as possible.
First, you should consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. Scheduling a consultation with a specialist in BBL procedures is essential. During this meeting, the surgeon will evaluate your body, discuss your goals and expectations, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for the surgery. This initial step is crucial to ensure that your desires align with what can be realistically achieved.
Next, achieving good physical health is imperative before undergoing a BBL. Being at a stable weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are vital. If you are a smoker, your surgeon will likely require you to quit smoking several weeks before and after the surgery to minimise the risk of complications. Smoking can significantly impair the healing process, so cessation is non-negotiable for a successful outcome.
Following any pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon is critical. These instructions may cover various aspects such as dietary restrictions, medications to avoid, and guidelines on when to stop taking certain drugs. Adhering strictly to these guidelines will help prepare your body for surgery and contribute to a smoother recovery.
Arranging for someone to drive you home post-surgery and stay with you for a few days is essential. Since a BBL is performed under general anaesthesia, you will not be in a position to drive yourself home. Having a friend or family member available to assist you during the initial 24-48 hours post-operation can be incredibly beneficial for your comfort and safety.
It’s also wise to get your home ready for your recovery. Since you’ll need to avoid sitting directly on your buttocks for several weeks after the procedure, investing in comfortable pillows or a special seat cushion can help you sit without applying pressure to the treated area. Preparing your living space in advance can make your recovery period much more comfortable.
Taking time off work is another important aspect to consider. You will likely need at least a few weeks off to recover adequately. Your surgeon will provide an estimate of the necessary recovery time, which you should discuss with your employer to ensure you have sufficient time to heal.
Finally, having realistic expectations about the results is crucial. Recovery from a BBL can take some time, and it may be several months before the final results are fully visible. Understanding this timeline and maintaining realistic expectations about the surgery’s outcome will help you remain patient and satisfied with your decision.
What happens during a BBL?
A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure typically involves the following steps:
- Anaesthesia: Before the surgery begins, the patient will be given general anaesthesia to ensure they are comfortable throughout the procedure.
- Liposuction: The first step in a BBL procedure is liposuction, which is used to harvest fat from areas of the body such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs. The surgeon will make small incisions in these areas and then use a cannula (a thin, hollow tube) to suction out the excess fat.
- Fat purification: After the fat is harvested, it will be purified using a process called centrifugation. During this process, the fat is spun at high speeds to separate the pure fat cells from any blood, oil, or other impurities.
- Fat injection: Once the fat is purified, it is then injected into the buttocks. The surgeon will use a series of small injections to sculpt the fat and create a more aesthetically pleasing shape and size.
- Closure: After the fat is injected, the incisions from the liposuction are closed with sutures. The surgeon may also apply a compression garment to help reduce swelling and support the new contours of the buttocks.
The entire procedure typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the amount of fat being transferred and the patient’s specific goals.
Understanding the Recovery Process from a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
Recovering from a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery is a process that varies among individuals, largely depending on the extent of the procedure and personal healing capacities. However, there are common experiences that most patients can expect during their recovery journey.
Initially, patients will likely experience some pain and discomfort, particularly in the areas where liposuction was performed and in the buttocks. This discomfort is usually most intense during the first few days post-surgery. Pain can typically be managed effectively with medication prescribed by your surgeon, ensuring that you remain as comfortable as possible during the early stages of recovery.
Swelling and bruising are normal following a BBL. These symptoms can persist for several weeks, gradually diminishing over time. Your surgeon will likely recommend wearing a compression garment to help manage swelling and support the newly contoured buttocks. This garment aids in reducing swelling and helps the skin conform to the new shape of your body.
One of the critical aspects of recovery is limited mobility, especially concerning how you sit. Patients must avoid sitting directly on their buttocks for at least two to four weeks after surgery, as doing so can negatively impact the surgery’s results. Special cushions or pillows designed to distribute weight away from the buttocks can help you sit comfortably without compromising your recovery.
Physical activity will need to be significantly restricted during the initial recovery period. Strenuous activities, including exercise and heavy lifting, should be avoided for several weeks. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on when it is safe to gradually resume normal activities, ensuring you do not jeopardise your healing process.
Follow-up appointments with your surgeon are a crucial part of the recovery process. These appointments allow your surgeon to monitor your progress, address any concerns, and manage potential complications. Regular check-ins help ensure that you are healing correctly and that the results of the surgery are developing as expected.
The long-term recovery phase involves patience as the final results of the BBL may take several months to become fully visible. This extended timeline is due to the gradual subsiding of swelling and the settling of the transferred fat into its new position.
BBL Results
The results of a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) can vary depending on the individual, the amount of fat transferred, and the specific goals of the patient. However, in general, patients can expect the following:
- Increased volume and shape of the buttocks: The main goal of a BBL is to increase the volume and shape of the buttocks, creating a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. The results will typically be visible immediately after the surgery but will continue to improve as the swelling subsides and the fat settles into its new position.
- Improved proportion and balance: A BBL can also help to improve the proportion and balance of the body, creating a more harmonious overall appearance.
- Long-lasting results: The results of a BBL can be long-lasting, but it’s important to note that they are not permanent. The fat that is transferred to the buttocks can be affected by factors such as weight gain or loss, pregnancy, and ageing.
- It’s important to note that the results are not guaranteed, and individual results may vary. It’s important to choose a reputable and qualified surgeon who is experienced in performing BBL surgeries and to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery.
Where can I get a BBL near me?
Surgeons at Centre for Surgery perform Brazilian butt lift procedures for patients in London and across the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow and Bristol. If you live anywhere in the UK and are keen to enhance the shape of your buttocks and hips, Centre for Surgery can help you to achieve your desired aesthetic results.
Will I need a BBL pillow?
After a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery, it’s important to avoid sitting directly on the buttocks for at least 2-4 weeks, or as advised by your surgeon, to prevent the newly transferred fat from being compressed or displaced. This is where a BBL pillow comes in. It is specially designed to protect the buttocks and to provide the necessary support during the recovery period.
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The BBL pillow is typically used to elevate the buttocks while sitting, preventing pressure on the newly transferred fat. The pillow allows patients to sit comfortably while protecting the newly transferred fat and promoting proper healing.
Not all BBL patients will need a special pillow, as the need for it depends on the individual case, the amount of fat transferred and the surgeon’s instructions. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions for your recovery, including whether or not you need a BBL pillow and for how long you should use it.
In any case, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions to ensure proper healing and the best possible results.
How much does a BBL cost in the UK?
The cost of a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) in the UK can vary depending on several factors, such as the surgeon’s experience, the location of the clinic, and the specific goals of the patient.
RELATED: How Much Does a Brazilian Butt Lift Cost?
According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) website, the average cost of a BBL in the UK is between £6,000 to £10,000. However, it’s important to keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and the actual cost may be higher or lower depending on the factors mentioned above.
It’s worth noting that a BBL is considered cosmetic surgery, and it’s not usually covered by the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK, so patients will need to pay for it privately. Some private health insurance policies may cover the cost of surgery if it is deemed medically necessary.
Can a BBL be combined with other procedures?
Yes, a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) can be combined with other cosmetic surgery procedures. In fact, many patients choose to have multiple procedures done at the same time to achieve a more comprehensive transformation.
Some of the most common procedures that are combined with a BBL include:
- Liposuction: Liposuction is often used in conjunction with a BBL to remove excess fat from other areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, and thighs, which can then be used to enhance the buttocks.
- Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): A tummy tuck is a procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen and can be combined with a BBL to create a more contoured and youthful appearance.
- Breast Surgery: Breast augmentation, breast lift, or breast reduction can be combined with a BBL to balance out the proportions of the body.
- Facial Surgery: Facial procedures such as facelift, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and rhinoplasty (nose job) can also be combined with a BBL to improve the overall appearance.
How much fat will survive after BBL surgery?
The survival rate of fat after a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery can vary depending on several factors, such as the amount of fat transferred, the technique used, and the patient’s individual healing process.
RELATED: How Much Fat is Transferred to the Buttocks in a BBL?
On average, about 50-80% of the transferred fat will survive long-term after a BBL surgery. However, this percentage can vary widely depending on the individual case. The amount of fat that survives can also vary depending on the patient’s overall health, the technique used by the surgeon, and the patient’s post-operative care.
The fat survival also depends on the skill and technique of the surgeon, as well as the patient’s healing capability.
Schedule a BBL consultation at Centre for Surgery
Once you have decided to embark on your journey to achieving an hourglass figure with fuller and rounder hips and buttocks, call us today on 020 7993 4849. To schedule an in-person consultation at our state-of-the-art Baker Street clinic. We are home to some of the best BBL surgeons in the UK and regularly perform Brazilian butt lift surgery.
