Although all types of cosmetic surgery procedures are very popular, there is one that is definitely taking the world by storm – the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL). The BBL can enable patients with even the flattest buttocks to enjoy the curvaceous rear that is so fashionable and desirable right now.

What is a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)?

A BBL involves utilizing a patient’s own natural fat to augment and shape the buttocks, increasing their size and create a full, round rear. Liposuction is performed to remove fat from an area of the body that has some to spare, such as the hips, abdomen or thighs. The fat will then be prepared to be placed back inside your body. Reinsertion is performed by injection into the buttocks, with the volume into each buttock varied depending on how much is needed to create a symmetrical appearance. Finally, additional liposuction may be performed on the area around the butt in order to further enhance its appearance. This can create smoother contours, greater definition and leave the patient with a perkier, more sensual and youthful silhouette.

The recovery process from a BBL is not dissimilar to that for any other cosmetic procedure although special considerations need to be made to the buttock area in order to achieve the best possible results.

Immediately following your Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)

Some moderate discomfort is to be expected following this popular cosmetic surgery. This will be experienced in both the buttock area and in the area where you had your original fat cells taken from. Swelling and bruising are also normal. Dressings will be applied to the areas where the procedure has been carried out, and you will be given medication to help alleviate your discomfort.

Since your procedure will have been carried out using either a general anesthetic or a combination of local anesthetic and sedative, you won’t be able to drive for at least 12-24 hours. You may also experience some side effects as a result of the medications that you were given to perform the procedure. These could include dizziness, nausea, and confusion.

The importance of your compression garment

A compression garment is an essential tool for recovery after a liposuction procedure. It looks and feels like a bandage, but it is fairly tight and applies pressure – or compression – to the wound. The purpose of this garment is to help minimize swelling and support the wounds as they heal. In doing so, they can also help reduce the pain that you might otherwise experience.

The compression garment that you are given for your buttocks will go around rather than over them. This is because it is important not to squash the newly inserted fat before it has a chance to settle and solidify.

Think before you sit

As you might expect, avoiding squashing the fat in your newly-formed buttocks can be somewhat challenging when it comes to sitting down. Nevertheless, you can’t be expected to stand for the six to eight weeks following your procedure! You will be given specific advice regarding how to approach resting. This will involve not sitting directly onto your buttocks but instead utilizing a donut pillow or other inflatable pillow so that you can avoid placing pressure onto the fat grafts. Even after the initial recovery period, you will be advised to use a cushion when you are sitting down and to avoid sitting for prolonged periods.

When it comes to sleeping, you will be recommended to sleep on your front wherever possible as this will prevent disturbance of the fat grafts and give them time to settle.

Getting back to normal

Your surgeon will be able to advise you just how long you can expect to take off of work as this will depend on your unique circumstances. However, in most cases, it will take between six and either week for you to be ready to resume your usual activities. Your surgeon will be able to advise you when your fat cells have stabilized enough for you to participate in vigorous activity such as running and playing contact sports.

As with all aspects of your recovery, it is essential that you listen to the explicit advice of your surgeon who will tailor the information you are given to your individual circumstances.

If you have further questions about recovering from Brazilian Butt Lift surgery, or if you would like to book an appointment to see if you are a suitable candidate for this procedure, please contact our offices where our discreet and helpful team would be happy to assist you.