Buttock Augmentation (BBL) : what is it?
In a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), fat harvested from the patient’s own body by liposuction is processed and transferred to the buttocks. Because the waist and abdomen are slimmed in the same session, the change is not only in volume; body proportion changes as a whole. BBL is the aesthetic procedure most discussed in terms of safety. The reason is older techniques in which fat was injected into the muscle. Today fat is placed only in the subcutaneous plane, at the correct cannula angle and, where needed, under ultrasound guidance; this reduces the risk substantially.
Who is a suitable candidate?
- Having enough fat available to transfer
- Unhappy with limited buttock volume or a flat shape
- Wanting to change the waist-to-hip ratio
- Stable weight
- A life that allows the 2 – 3 week restriction on sitting
How is it performed?
Fat is first harvested by liposuction from areas such as the abdomen, waist, back and hips. This step also slims the waist and is what really defines the result.
The harvested fat is filtered in a way that preserves the viability of the fat cells.
The fat is injected only into the subcutaneous plane, never into the muscle, using fine cannulas in many layers. This technique determines both safety and how much fat survives.
Some of the transferred fat is absorbed within the first 3 months; the remainder is permanent.
Recovery
The timeline below shows an average course. Your personal recovery depends on your age, skin quality, smoking and the extent of the operation.
Lying on your back or front is preferred; direct pressure on the buttocks is avoided. A compression garment is worn.
Sitting directly is not allowed; you sit on your thighs using a special BBL cushion. This rule is the most critical part of the process for fat survival. Sleep is on the front or side.
Swelling in the liposuction areas begins to settle. From week 4 there is a gradual return to normal sitting and light exercise.
The portion of fat that was going to be absorbed has gone and the permanent volume becomes clear. The final result is assessed at 6 months.
Possible risks
Every surgical procedure carries risk. Knowing them is not meant to frighten you but to let you decide with full awareness. Each point is discussed individually at your consultation.
- Fat embolism, rare but serious; the risk is markedly lower with subcutaneous technique
- More fat absorbed than expected; asymmetry
- Formation of fat cysts or firmness
- Infection, seroma
- Surface irregularity in the liposuction areas
This page is for general information and does not replace a consultation. The method that may apply to you, the expected outcome and the risks can only be determined after a medical examination.
Frequently asked questions
Is BBL safe?
It depends on technique. Where fat is injected into the muscle there is serious risk. Where it is placed only in the subcutaneous plane with the right cannula and angle, the risk is markedly lower. This is the first question to ask your surgeon.
How much of the fat is permanent?
Usually 60 – 70% of the transferred fat remains. The rest is absorbed within the first 3 months; planning allows for this from the start.
Will I really not be able to sit?
For the first 2 – 3 weeks you do not sit directly on the buttocks. With a BBL cushion that lets you sit on your thighs, you can use a car, a desk and the toilet.
What if I don’t have enough fat?
In very slim patients there may not be enough fat to transfer. In that case buttock implants or lowering the volume expectation are discussed.
