Fat Necrosis after BBL – Causes & Solutions

The Brazilian Butt Lift, often shortened to BBL, is a well-liked cosmetic surgery procedure that many people opt for these days. In simple terms, this operation involves taking fat from one part of your body using a method called liposuction, and then putting that fat into your bum to give it a fuller and more shapely look.

In this article, we’re going to delve into a concern that’s on the minds of many people considering a BBL: the possibility of experiencing fat necrosis after the operation. We’ll go into detail about what causes this condition and how you can best avoid it.

Here at Centre for Surgery, located in London, our team of expert body contouring surgeons are highly skilled in performing Brazilian Butt Lifts, along with a wide array of other cosmetic surgeries. With some of the most seasoned and knowledgeable BBL surgeons in the UK, we’re well-equipped to create a personalised treatment plan for you. Our aim is to lower the chances of you encountering complications like fat necrosis following your surgery.

RELATED: Brazilian Butt Lift FAQs – Q&A about BBL Surgery

What Is Fat Necrosis?

Fat necrosis is a medical condition that negatively impacts the adipose tissue, which is essentially the fat tissue in a specific part of the body. This happens when the blood supply to the fat tissue is compromised or restricted, leading to a gradual deterioration of the cells. The process of fat necrosis can take time to manifest and typically progresses through various stages before becoming fully noticeable.

Although it’s important to note that fat necrosis is generally benign, meaning it’s not cancerous, it remains a significant concern for individuals, particularly those who have undergone cosmetic procedures like the Brazilian Butt Lift. One of the key reasons why fat necrosis is bothersome from a cosmetic standpoint is that it can result in the formation of hard, palpable lumps beneath the skin surface in the affected region. These lumps can alter the smooth, desired appearance that many patients seek through their cosmetic surgeries.

Furthermore, the area where the fat necrosis occurs may also exhibit other noticeable symptoms. For example, the skin in that region might take on a red hue and may even appear bruised. This discolouration happens as the fat tissue cells start to deteriorate or die, affecting the overall appearance and texture of the skin above it.

What Causes Fat Necrosis After a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)?

In a Brazilian Butt Lift procedure, fat cells are taken from one part of your body and then transferred to your buttocks. For these newly moved fat cells to survive and flourish, they need to successfully integrate into the existing blood supply of the buttocks. Fat necrosis can occur post-surgery if there are any issues or complications during this fat transfer process that negatively impact the blood supply to the newly treated area.

The risk of experiencing fat necrosis is heightened when the grafted fat suffers from injuries or damages during the surgical procedure. Such injuries can disrupt the crucial blood supply, leading to a decline in the health of the fat tissue, and eventually causing fat necrosis. This can manifest as hard lumps and discolouration in the affected area, which are undesirable outcomes especially when you’ve undergone the surgery for cosmetic enhancement.

The good news is that here at Centre for Surgery, our highly skilled and experienced surgeons can significantly minimise this risk. They do this by employing meticulous techniques in the grafting and diffusion of the fat during the procedure. In addition, they inject just the right amount of fat, ensuring a balanced and natural look while keeping complications at bay.

Patients themselves can also be proactive in preventing fat necrosis after undergoing a BBL. One of the most effective ways to do this is by rigorously following the post-surgical recovery guidelines provided by their surgeon. Adhering to these instructions can aid in proper healing and reduce the chances of complications like fat necrosis.

How Long After a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) Can Fat Necrosis Occur?

Fat necrosis is most likely to develop within the initial three months following a Brazilian Butt Lift procedure. This is a critical period as the transferred fat cells are in the process of integrating with the existing tissue and blood supply in their new location within the buttocks. The integration process is vital for the survival and stability of the newly grafted fat, making this timeframe particularly crucial for monitoring any signs or symptoms of complications such as fat necrosis.

During these first three months of recovery, it’s imperative to be vigilant and adhere strictly to all the aftercare guidelines provided by your surgeon. Proper care can help ensure that the transferred fat cells successfully integrate, thereby reducing the risk of complications like fat necrosis.

RELATED: Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) Week-By-Week Recovery Timeline

If you happen to experience any significant pain, discomfort, or other unusual symptoms, it’s highly advised to contact your surgeon as soon as possible for a thorough evaluation. Early detection and intervention can be crucial for effectively managing and treating any issues that may arise, including fat necrosis. This is particularly important because symptoms like pain and lump formation can be early warning signs of fat necrosis or other complications, warranting immediate attention and potentially timely treatment to prevent further issues.

What Can and Cannot Prevent Fat Necrosis After a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)

It’s important to be well-informed when it comes to preventing complications like fat necrosis following a BBL. Below, we’ll go through some prevalent myths and facts about what can and cannot prevent fat necrosis after your surgery.

Myth #1: Avoid Sitting On Your Buttocks

Common Belief:
Some people believe that sitting directly on your buttocks after undergoing a BBL can increase the likelihood of fat necrosis and negatively affect your surgical outcomes.

Expert Opinion:
According to our team of surgeons at Centre for Surgery, there’s no concrete scientific evidence supporting the idea that sitting or applying direct pressure on the newly grafted fat can lead to fat necrosis or cause a loss of the transferred fat. While it might sound plausible, it’s not backed by scientific data.

RELATED: When Can You Sit After a BBL?

Myth #2: Steer Clear of Strenuous Physical Activity

Common Belief:
The notion exists that engaging in strenuous physical activity or exercising after a BBL surgery might increase the risk of fat necrosis. The theory behind this is that the newly transferred fat cells, which are still in the process of settling and integrating, could be damaged or jeopardised due to the added pressure or stress on the buttocks.

Expert Opinion:
Our surgeons point out that this risk is more theoretical than proven. The idea behind this myth is rooted in the fact that the transferred fat cells are delicate and rely on the development of new, equally fragile blood vessels to survive. While it’s theorised that excessive pressure might disturb these nascent blood vessels, there’s no definitive proof to substantiate this claim.

RELATED: When Can You Workout After BBL?

What You Can Do:

1. Follow Post-Operative Guidelines: Adherence to the aftercare instructions provided by your surgeon is essential for a successful recovery and minimising risks.
2. Keep Open Communication with Your Surgeon: If you notice any unusual symptoms or discomfort, it’s crucial to contact your surgeon for a thorough evaluation.
3. Wear Compression Garments: These can help reduce swelling and improve blood circulation, potentially reducing the risk of fat necrosis.