A Brazilian butt lift (BBL), is a cosmetic surgical procedure that can enhance the size and overall shape of the buttocks. Excess fat is removed from specific parts of the body and then transferred to the buttocks, often resulting in a shapely, full appearance.
In this article, you’ll learn why exactly it’s called a Brazilian butt lift, benefits of the procedure, how to increase your chances of getting the best results froma BBL, and more.
The term “Brazilian butt lift” refers to the cosmetic procedure that involves reshaping and enhancing the buttocks. It’s called a “Brazilian” butt lift because the procedure is associated with the aesthetic ideal of a curvaceous, well-rounded appearance - which is commonly seen as a symbol of beauty in Brazilian culture. Specifically Brazilian models are known for having voluminous curves. A BBL procedure is viewed as providing individuals with the same kind of shapely beauty.
Additionally, the history of the Brazilian butt lift can be traced back to the development and refinement of many surgical techniques in the field of plastic surgery, specifically in Brazil. The procedure involves fat grafting techniques, where fat is harvested from one area of the body through liposuction and then injected into the buttocks to enhance their size and shape. Fat grafting itself has a long history in plastic surgery, dating back to the early 20th century. However, the concept of enhancing the buttocks through fat transfer gained attention in the early 2000s. Plastic surgeons began to experiment with different techniques to achieve natural-looking results. These early procedures laid the foundation for what would become the BBL.
The term "Brazilian Butt Lift" became widely recognized and popular as a famous aesthetic plastic surgery in the mid-2000s.
That being said, it’s important to note that the name of the Brazilian butt lift procedure doesn’t necessarily mean it can only be performed in Brazil or that it has to be performed by a Brazilian plastic surgeon. Brazilian butt lifts are performed by plastic surgeons around the world.
You might be a candidate for a Brazilian butt lift if you are 18 years old or older and:
Your surgeon will determine if you are a candidate for the procedure during your consultation.
There are many benefits to a Brazilian butt lift, including:
While a Brazilian butt lift isn’t considered permanent, it is considered to be long-lasting. Specifically, the results of a BBL can last for several years. Many factors can influence exactly how long the benefits last, including the aging process, your lifestyle choices, weight fluctuations, and natural fat absorbtion (some of the transferred fat can naturally be absorbed by the body over time, leading to a gradual reduction in volume).
To maximize the longevity of results, it's important to follow post-operative instructions carefully, maintain a stable weight, and consider touch-up procedures if needed.
To achieve the optimal results from the procedure, there are specific steps you can take. Here are some tips to help you get the best results from a BBL:
Choose a Qualified Surgeon: Select a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in performing BBL procedures. Look at their credentials, reviews, and before-and-after photos of previous patients.
Consultation and Communication: Schedule a consultation with your chosen surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. Clearly communicate what you want to achieve, and ask any questions you have about the procedure (including about the recovery).
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Being in good overall health can improve surgical outcomes and recovery.
Maintain a Stable Weight: Try to achieve and maintain a stable weight before undergoing a BBL. Significant weight fluctuations can affect the results.
Have Realistic Expectations: It’s important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. Your surgeon can provide guidance on what is achievable based on your body type and goals.
Preoperative Preparation: Follow your surgeon's preoperative instructions carefully, which could include avoiding certain medications, quitting smoking, and preparing your body for surgery.
Postoperative Care: Follow the postoperative care instructions provided by your surgeon. This could include taking prescribed medications and avoiding strenuous activities during the initial recovery period (for the first several weeks after your surgery).
Wear Compression Garments: Wear compression garments as directed by your surgeon to minimize swelling and support the healing process.
Avoid Sitting or Lying on Your Buttocks: After a BBL, it's crucial to avoid sitting or lying directly on your buttocks for a certain period, typically a few weeks, to protect the newly transferred fat cells and ensure their survival.
Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Refrain from smoking and limit alcohol consumption during the recovery period, as these can negatively impact healing and results.
Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
Be Patient: Understand that it might take several months for the final results of a BBL to become fully visible as swelling subsides and the body heals.
The cost of a Brazilian butt lift can vary widely depending on factors such as your location, the experience of the plastic surgeon, and the extent of the procedure. On average, the cost ranges from $4,000 to $15,000 or more. It's important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon for a personalized quote.
The typical recovery period after a Brazilian butt lift varies from person to person but usually involves an initial downtime of about two weeks. Patients are advised to avoid sitting or lying directly on their buttocks during this time to protect the newly injected fat. Most individuals can gradually return to their normal activities, including sitting, after a few weeks and resume normal activities and strenuous exercise around four to six weeks after surgery.
Brazilian butt lifts and butt implants are both procedures used to enhance the appearance of the buttocks, but they are different in some key ways. BBL involves using your own fat through fat grafting techniques to achieve a natural look and feel. It also typically has a shorter recovery period than butt implant placement, which involves surgically inserting silicone implants.
Yes, it is possible to combine a BBL with other cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction or a tummy tuck, in a single surgery. This approach is often referred to as a "mommy makeover" or a comprehensive body contouring procedure. Combining surgeries can help address multiple areas of concern and achieve a more balanced and harmonious body shape. It's essential to discuss your goals and options with your surgeon to determine the best approach for your individual needs.