A Brazilian butt lift, or BBL, is aa very popular surgery that aims to augment the buttocks using the patient’s own fat. It is one of the hottest plastic surgeries today. The latest data from The Aesthetic Society shows that BBL surgery continues to rise in popularity. In 2021, 37% more Brazilian butt lift surgeries were done compared to 2020. And in 2020, surgeons performed over 40,000 butt augmentation procedures alone.
But what most people don’t realize is that a Brazilian butt lift is neither “Brazilian” nor a “butt lift.” So, what really is a BBL?
What is a BBL?
A BBL is a two-step process in which first liposuction is performed in different areas of the body such as the abdomen, back, and flanks, in order to remove fat. Then, the fat is transferred via injections to the hips and buttocks to improve the overall shape and projection. The combination of sculpting the back, waist, and abdomen with liposuction, and adding fat to the buttocks, will make a remarkable change in the overall shape and contour.
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Results of BBL surgery at The Williams Center
Is a BBL safe?
Like any surgery, BBL surgery carries certain risks. However, this procedure can be very safe in the hands of a board-certified plastic surgeon. Unfortunately, because BBL surgery is becoming quite popular, other practitioners are attempting to do this without having the training and expertise required to do so safely.
The main reason why BBL surgery can be unsafe in the wrong hands is because there is a very specific place in which the fat must be placed in the buttock area. The fat must be placed between the skin and the underlying gluteal muscles, no deeper. If the fat is placed deeper into the muscles, it can travel into blood vessels, and that can cause something called “fat emolus.”
Essentially, injecting fat into the muscles and blood vessels can cause the fat to go directly to the heart and lungs, and cause a very dangerous embolus which can be fatal.
It is very important to do your homework research to find a surgeon who is board-certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgery, who has a deep understanding of the anatomy and safety related to gluteal augmentation procedures, and who has extensive experience performing BBL surgery.
Cost of a Brazilian butt lift
Overall, the cost of a BBL can range from $7,000 to $15,000. It is important to discuss your goals and expectations with your surgeon in order to get the most accurate quote.
The cost of a Brazilian butt lift can vary from surgeon to surgeon depending upon the experience and qualifications of the surgeon, the particular details of the surgery related to the individual patient, and geographical location of the practice.
A BBL in a major city such as New York City would likely be more expensive than a BBL in a more rural location. Similarly, a BBL for someone that requires a significant amount of fat transfer will likely be more costly than for someone who only requires a minimal amount.
The rising popularity of BBL surgery
The rising popularity of the BBL can be attributed to various factors, including:
- Natural-Looking Results: BBL surgery yields natural-looking results because it utilizes the patient’s own fat. This method results in a natural and proportionate enhancement of the buttocks.
- Celebrity Endorsements: Influential celebrities and social media stars have openly shared their positive experiences with the BBL, contributing to more widespread acceptance among their followers.
- Longevity of Results: As we age, it’s normal for weight to fluctuate. Because BBL surgery utilizes your own fat cells, your body will adjust naturally to slight changes in weight.
- Social Media Influence: The surge in social media usage has allowed for the sharing of before-and-after BBL images, contributing to more visibility online.
What to do when you’re thinking about undergoing a BBL
When you’re thinking about having BBL surgery, it’s important to do the following:
- Do your research. Look at how the BBL recovery process is, what the cost will be, and any potential risks of the procedure.
- Find a board-certified plastic surgeon. Because of the nature of BBL surgery, it’s essential to find a surgeon who has several years of experience performing this procedure.
- Go to many plastic surgery consultations. At these consultations, ask a lot of questions, read patient reviews/watch patient testimonials, and check out before and after photos of BBL surgery.
- Most importantly, choose a surgeon that you feel comfortable with.
For a BBL consultation with specialized body plastic surgeon Dr. Alfredo Lloreda, contact The Williams Center today.