Brazilian Butt Lift vs. Butt Injections: Weighing Your Options
Cosmetic procedures aimed at accentuating and volumising the derrière have witnessed an exponential proliferation in the UK. The aspiration for a more voluptuous posterior has driven individuals to investigate an assortment of augmentation techniques. Two effective procedures that have garnered considerable acclaim are gluteal or butt injections and the Brazilian Buttock Lift (BBL). In this blog, we shall dissect the intricacies of butt injections vs BBL, to facilitate an informed discernment regarding the most congruous buttock enhancement procedure for your physiological constitution.
Buttock Injections
Benefits of Butt Fillers
Buttock injections offer a minimally invasive approach, resulting in minimal downtime and limited scarring. They can be performed in an outpatient setting without the need for an operating theatre. Even small amounts of buttock injections can be utilised to correct hip dips. For patients lacking sufficient fat for a Brazilian butt lift (BBL), butt injections can be a suitable alternative. Moreover, injections provide an opportunity to experiment with adding volume to the buttocks, allowing individuals to determine their eligibility for a full BBL. Additionally, butt injections can be employed to fine-tune the buttocks after a BBL, eliminating the need for a second Brazilian butt lift procedure.
Types of Buttock Injections
Sculptra – Sculptra butt lift injections serve as an alternative to traditional buttock lifts or Brazilian butt lifts. This injectable substance, composed of poly-L-lactic acid, is injected into specific areas beneath the skin to thicken the skin and stimulate deep collagen growth. The outcome is a firmer and more curvaceous buttock. Typically, these injections are administered over multiple sessions scheduled a few days apart.
Radiesse – Radiesse injections involve the use of a calcium-based filler. They also stimulate collagen growth to tighten and smoothen the skin of the buttocks. These injections can be carried out in several sessions, spaced approximately 3 months apart, in order to add small amounts of volume and enhance the buttock’s appearance.
Lanluma – Lanluma butt injections, similar to Sculptra injections, consist of a poly-L-lactic acid substance. By stimulating the body’s natural collagen production, they give the buttocks a rounder and firmer look.
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Cost of Butt injections in London
The precise cost of buttock injections depends on the type of filler employed and the complexity of the procedure. On average, buttock injections in London typically range from £2000 to £5000, contingent upon the product used and the volume injected. However, in terms of cost per millilitre of volume injected, a Brazilian butt lift proves to be a more economical option. Furthermore, a BBL offers permanent results, whereas butt injections usually necessitate administration every 18 months.
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Butt injections Procedure
The precise procedure for buttock injections varies based on the type of substance used. Generally, the surgeon initiates the process by administering a local anaesthetic to numb the buttock region, ensuring a pain-free experience. A fine syringe is then employed to introduce the chosen product. Subsequently, the area may be gently massaged to ensure even distribution of the product across the buttocks.
Recovery after Butt injections
Due to its non-surgical nature, buttock injections entail minimal downtime. Typically, patients can resume work and daily activities either on the same day or the following day. Some individuals may experience mild soreness and swelling in the buttocks during the initial few days after the injection, but these symptoms should subside quickly.
Results of butt injections
Results from Sculptra and Lanluma injections usually become noticeable within 2-6 months, as the filler is gradually absorbed by the body and replaced by natural collagen. Radiesse, on the other hand, provides both immediate and progressive results as collagen development takes place.
Brazilian Buttock Lift (BBL)
A Brazilian Buttock Lift is a widely sought-after surgical procedure in the UK for enhancing the buttocks by adding volume through a process known as fat transfer. Unlike butt injections that involve synthetic fillers, the BBL involves extracting fat through liposuction from one area of the body and injecting it into the buttocks.
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At Centre for Surgery, our team of skilled body contouring surgeons utilises the ultrasound-guided BBL technique, which ensures the safe injection of fat above the gluteal muscles. This method involves grafting excess fat from the surrounding areas of the buttocks and carefully injecting it over the gluteal muscles. It is considered a significantly safer approach compared to injecting fat under or into the muscles, which can pose greater risks to patients.
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Advantages
The Brazilian Buttock Lift offers several distinct benefits compared to other buttock enhancement treatments:
- Enhanced Curves: The BBL enhances the natural curves of the body by adding volume to the hips and buttock area, resulting in an aesthetically pleasing enhancement for many patients.
- Greater Volume: Compared to butt injections, which only allow for the addition of small amounts of filler, the BBL enables more significant volume enhancement through fat transfer.
- Body Contouring: The fat transfer involved in a Brazilian Buttock Lift removes excess fat from areas such as the thighs and stomach, further contouring the body and improving overall proportions.
- Improved Hip Appearance: The BBL can add volume to the hips, effectively reducing the appearance of “hip dips” and creating a more balanced and attractive silhouette.
- Natural Fat Transfer: Unlike foreign chemical injections used in other procedures, the BBL utilizes the body’s own fat, minimizing the risk of allergic reactions and promoting a more natural outcome.
- Natural-Looking Results: The Brazilian Buttock Lift can produce prominent yet natural-looking results that cannot be achieved through exercise alone, enhancing the shape and size of the buttocks.
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BBL Cost in London
The cost of a Brazilian Buttock Lift at Centre for Surgery starts at £7,500 and may vary depending on individual factors such as the areas requiring liposuction, surgical complexity, and the type of anaesthesia used. During an in-person consultation at our Baker Street clinic, you will receive an accurate cost breakdown specific to your BBL procedure.
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BBL Procedure
The Brazilian Buttock Lift is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes between 2 to 4 hours to complete. After anaesthesia is administered, your surgeon will make incisions in the areas where excess fat will be harvested, usually in the thighs, hips, or abdominal region. Liposuction is then used to remove the fat, which is subsequently purified for injection into the buttocks. The fat is strategically injected into specific areas of the buttocks to achieve the desired shape and volume.
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At Centre for Surgery, we were the first plastic surgery clinic in the UK to employ the ultrasound-guided BBL technique. This approach minimises risks by superficially injecting fat above the gluteal muscle. Our expert plastic surgeons also use real-time ultrasound scans to ensure that fat is not injected into the muscles, further prioritising patient safety. The procedure involves making 3 to 5 small incisions, which are then meticulously closed.
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Recovery after BBL
Your surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions and recovery tips, along with any necessary prescriptions to ensure your comfort following the Brazilian Buttock Lift. Swelling and bruising are common side effects after the surgery, both in the buttocks and in the areas where liposuction was performed.
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In general, patients can typically resume most light, daily activities within 2 to 3 weeks, including returning to work. However, it may be necessary to wait up to 4 weeks.
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Pros and Cons of Butt Injections
Pros:
- Minimally invasive: Butt injections are a minimally invasive procedure, which means they require smaller incisions and result in less scarring compared to surgical options.
- Little downtime: Due to their non-surgical nature, butt injections usually involve minimal downtime. Patients can often resume their daily activities shortly after the procedure.
- Outpatient procedure: Butt injections can typically be performed in outpatient clinics or medical offices without the need for an operating theatre. This can make the procedure more convenient and accessible for patients.
- Correcting hip dips: Small amounts of butt injections can be used to correct the appearance of hip dips, creating a smoother contour and enhancing the shape of the buttocks.
- Suitable for patients with insufficient fat: Butt injections can be a suitable option for patients who do not have enough fat for a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) procedure. Synthetic fillers can be used to add volume to the buttocks without the need for fat transfer. A mini BBL is also available for patients with limited fat reserves who would like to achieve long-lasting results.
- Trial for BBL: Butt injections can serve as a trial or test to experiment with adding volume to the buttocks. This allows patients to assess if they would be suitable candidates for a full Brazilian butt lift procedure.
- Butt refinement after BBL: In some cases, butt injections can be used to make adjustments or refinements to the buttocks after a Brazilian butt lift, avoiding the need for a second surgical procedure.
Cons:
- Temporary results: Butt injections usually provide temporary results, as the injected fillers are gradually absorbed by the body. Depending on the type of filler used, the effects may last around 18-24 months before requiring repeat administration.
- Limitation on volume enhancement: Compared to a Brazilian butt lift, where a larger amount of fat can be transferred, butt injections with fillers have limitations on the volume that can be added to the buttocks. They are more suitable for smaller enhancements.
- Potential for adverse reactions: Although rare, there is a risk of adverse reactions or complications associated with synthetic fillers used in butt injections. These can include allergic reactions, infections, or uneven results.
- Cost considerations: Butt injections can be costly, and the exact cost depends on the type of filler used and the amount injected. In some cases, a Brazilian butt lift may be a more cost-effective option, as it provides permanent results.
- Skill-dependent procedure: Achieving optimal results with butt injections requires the skill and expertise of a qualified practitioner. Choosing an experienced and reputable provider is crucial to minimise the risk of complications and ensure desirable outcomes.
- Limitation on body contouring: Butt injections primarily focus on enhancing the shape and volume of the buttocks. They may not provide the same level of body contouring benefits as a Brazilian butt lift, which involves liposuction to remove excess fat from other areas of the body.
- Less control over final results: With butt injections, there may be less control over the final outcome compared to a surgical procedure. The amount and distribution of filler can vary, and achieving precise and customized results may be more challenging.
Pros and Cons of BBL
Pros:
- Enhanced buttock volume and shape: A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) can significantly enhance the volume and shape of the buttocks, creating a more rounded and curvaceous appearance.
- Natural results: The BBL utilises the patient’s own fat through fat transfer, resulting in a more natural look and feel compared to synthetic fillers or implants.
- Body contouring benefits: In addition to enhancing the buttocks, the BBL involves liposuction to remove excess fat from other areas of the body. This can result in improved body contours and proportions.
- Permanent results: Unlike temporary fillers, the fat transferred during a BBL has the potential to establish long-lasting results. The transferred fat can integrate with the existing tissue and provide a permanent augmentation.
- Customisable outcomes: The BBL allows for a customized approach, as the surgeon can sculpt and shape the buttocks according to the patient’s desired outcome. This allows for individualized results based on body proportions and aesthetic preferences.
- Safety: The use of the patient’s own fat reduces the risk of allergic reactions or rejection compared to synthetic fillers or implants. When performed by an experienced surgeon, the BBL can be a safe procedure.
Cons:
- Surgical procedure: The BBL is a surgical procedure that involves general anaesthesia, incisions, and liposuction. This means there are associated risks and potential complications, such as infection, bleeding, or adverse reactions to anaesthesia.
- Downtime and recovery: The BBL requires a significant recovery period, during which physical activity and certain movements may be restricted. It may take several weeks to fully recover and resume normal activities.
- Limitations on fat availability: The success of a BBL depends on the availability of sufficient fat in other areas of the body for liposuction. Patients with low body fat may not have enough donor sites for fat transfer, limiting their eligibility for the procedure.
- Fat absorption and loss: Not all of the transferred fat survives after a BBL. Some of the fat may be reabsorbed by the body, leading to a decrease in volume over time. Touch-up procedures or repeat injections may be necessary to maintain the desired results.
- Uneven fat distribution: Achieving symmetrical and even fat distribution can be challenging, and there is a risk of uneven or lumpy results. The skill and experience of the surgeon play a crucial role in achieving balanced and natural-looking outcomes.
- Cost considerations: The BBL can be a costly procedure, considering the surgical expertise, anaesthesia, facility fees, and post-operative care involved. It is important to factor in the financial aspects when considering the BBL.
- Postoperative care and lifestyle changes: Following a BBL, patients are required to follow specific post-operative care instructions and make certain lifestyle changes, such as avoiding sitting or lying directly on the buttocks for a period of time. Compliance with these guidelines is essential for optimal healing and results.
BBL vs Butt Injections – which procedure is right for me?
Deciding between a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) and butt injections depends on various factors, including your goals, body type, and preferences. Here are some considerations to help you make an informed decision:
BBL may be the right choice if:
- Desired volume and shape: If you are looking for a significant increase in buttock volume and a more pronounced shape, a BBL can provide more substantial results. The fat transfer allows for a customisable enhancement tailored to your body proportions.
- Body contouring: If you have excess fat in other areas of the body that you would like to address, the liposuction component of a BBL can help contour those areas, such as the abdomen, thighs, or hips, while simultaneously augmenting the buttocks.
- Permanent results: If you prefer long-lasting or permanent results, a BBL may be more suitable. The fat transferred during the procedure can potentially establish permanent augmentation in the buttocks.
- Natural look and feel: If you value a more natural look and feel, the BBL, which uses your own fat, can provide a result that is often indistinguishable from natural buttocks. This can be advantageous over synthetic fillers used in butt injections.
Butt injections may be the right choice if:
- Minimal enhancement desired: If you are seeking subtle or smaller volume enhancements in the buttocks, butt injections with synthetic fillers can offer a less invasive option.
- Limited fat availability: If you have insufficient donor sites with excess fat for liposuction, butt injections can be an alternative as they do not rely on fat transfer.
- Temporary results: If you prefer the flexibility of adjusting your results over time or exploring different options, butt injections with fillers can be a suitable choice. These injections typically offer temporary results, allowing for readministration or modification as needed.
- Convenience and shorter recovery: Butt injections are often performed in outpatient settings, require minimal downtime, and have a quicker recovery period compared to the surgical process involved in a BBL.
Ultimately, it is essential to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon at Centre for Surgery experienced in both procedures. We can evaluate your individual circumstances, discuss your desired outcome, and provide personalised recommendations based on your anatomy and goals. They will guide you in making an informed decision and help determine the procedure that best aligns with your expectations and preferences.
Butt Injections vs BBL FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Butt Injections vs Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL):
What is the difference between butt injections and a BBL?
Butt injections usually refer to injecting substances like silicone, hydrogel, PMMA, and other fillers to increase the size of the buttocks. However, these injections can be dangerous and are often illegal. On the other hand, a BBL involves liposuction to remove fat from certain parts of your body and re-injecting the purified fat into your buttocks.
Which procedure is safer?
The BBL is generally considered safer, as it uses your own body fat rather than a foreign substance. Non-medical grade injections can cause serious complications, including infections, abscesses, tissue death, and even life-threatening systemic effects.
Which procedure offers more natural-looking results?**
A BBL usually provides more natural-looking and feeling results, since it uses your own body fat.
RELATED: How To Achieve A Natural Looking BBL
What is the recovery time for each procedure?
The recovery period for a BBL is typically about two weeks for light activities, but it may take up to a few months to fully recover. Non-medical butt injections don’t have a standard recovery time because they’re not a medically approved procedure.
How long do the results last?
The results of a BBL can last for many years, as long as your weight remains stable. The longevity of non-medical butt injections can vary widely and is unpredictable.
What are the potential complications?
For BBL, complications can include infection, bleeding, fat embolism, or asymmetry. For non-medical butt injections, complications can be severe and even life-threatening, including infection, granulomas, abscesses, skin discolouration, skin death, and systemic effects.
Schedule a consultation at Centre for Surgery
Centre for Surgery is a renowned and trusted provider of cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures in London. Here are some reasons why you may choose Centre for Surgery:
- Expertise and Experience: Centre for Surgery is home to a team of highly skilled and experienced plastic surgeons who specialise in a wide range of procedures, including body contouring, breast surgery, facial rejuvenation, and non-surgical treatments. The surgeons are extensively trained and have performed numerous successful surgeries, ensuring exceptional results and patient satisfaction.
- Innovative Techniques: Centre for Surgery is at the forefront of using advanced surgical techniques and technologies. They were the first plastic surgery clinic in the UK to introduce the ultrasound-guided Brazilian Butt Lift technique, demonstrating their commitment to providing the highest standard of care and safety to their patients.
- Patient-Centric Approach: At Centre for Surgery, the patient’s well-being and satisfaction are paramount. The team prioritizes open communication, actively listening to patients’ concerns and goals, and providing detailed information and guidance throughout the treatment journey. They ensure that patients are well-informed, comfortable, and supported at every step of the process.
- Safety and Accreditation: Centre for Surgery maintains the highest standards of safety and quality. The clinic is Care Quality Commission (CQC) registered, which demonstrates adherence to strict regulations and guidelines for patient care, safety, and facility standards. The surgical procedures are performed in state-of-the-art facilities equipped with the latest technology and adhere to rigorous safety protocols.
- Comprehensive Range of Procedures: Centre for Surgery offers a comprehensive range of surgical and non-surgical procedures to address various aesthetic concerns. Whether you are considering body contouring, breast augmentation, facial rejuvenation, or non-surgical treatments, Centre for Surgery provides a wide array of options to cater to your unique needs and preferences.
- Personalised Treatment Plans: Each patient is unique, and Centre for Surgery understands the importance of personalized treatment plans. The surgeons take the time to assess each patient’s specific goals, anatomy, and medical history to create customized treatment plans that deliver optimal results.
- Excellent Reputation and Patient Satisfaction: Centre for Surgery has earned a reputation for providing exceptional results and outstanding patient care. They have a high rate of patient satisfaction, with many patients sharing positive testimonials and before-and-after photos that showcase their successful transformations.
Choosing Centre for Surgery means entrusting your aesthetic goals to a team of highly skilled professionals who prioritise safety, patient satisfaction, and delivering natural-looking results.
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