A Brazilian Butt Lift, also known as a BBL, is a surgical procedure that removes fat from other areas of the body and transfers it to the buttocks. This procedure offers a double benefit: sculpting problem areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, or flanks, while improving the shape and definition of the backside. It is an ideal procedure for women who are unhappy with the shape of their buttocks or have noticed changes to the backside, such as volume loss or sagging, over time.
While women love the minimally invasive nature of this treatment, they do ask about pain during the procedure and recovery process. In this blog, we’ll discuss whether a Brazilian Butt Lift hurts and offer tips to make the procedure as comfortable as possible.
4 Min Read:
Does a BBL Hurt?
The first step of the BBL process is liposuction. The procedure is performed under anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout. Dr. Kadz uses tiny incisions and a narrow tube called a cannula to loosen and remove stubborn fat. The incisions are too small to require suturing and usually heal quickly with minimal visible scarring.
The gently suctioned fat is then collected into a closed, gentle vibration system to prevent contamination. After layering that fat, facilitated by the gentle vibration process, the unusable parts are strained from below, leaving only pure fat and good plasma. Dr. Kadz then infuses the purified fat and plasma directly from the closed container system into various regions of the buttocks through injection cannulas via a gentle motorized infusion system.
He places more fat in the buttocks than the patient actually needs to achieve their desired results, since the body will reabsorb some of it. The injections are minimally invasive, cause only slight discomfort, and don’t leave any scarring. The result is contoured, enhanced buttocks, as shown in these BBL before and after photos.
How Painful Is BBL Recovery?
The recovery after a Brazilian Butt Lift is relatively short and comfortable, compared to other surgical procedures. You will experience some bruising and swelling for the first few days after your procedure, but Dr. Kadz will prescribe pain medication to relieve the discomfort during that time. Pain is subjective, so communicate with Dr. Kadz throughout your recovery journey to ensure you receive sufficient relief to rest comfortably for the first week or two.
By the third week, patients usually see significant improvement in swelling, which alleviates their discomfort and allows them to feel more like themselves again. By this time, most of our patients have returned to work and regular activities, although Dr. Kadz advises against strenuous activities until about six weeks after your procedure. It’s rare for patients to need any pain medication at this point, and sleep may start to feel more comfortable and restful.
Recovery After a BBL: How to Stay Comfortable
Although there is some discomfort associated with any surgical procedure, there are steps patients can take to minimize pain after their Brazilian Butt Lift:
- Follow Postoperative Instructions: Dr. Kadz will provide specific postoperative instructions for your recovery process. Follow those directions carefully to minimize discomfort and your risk for complications.
- Wear Your Compression Garment: Compression garments are designed to reduce swelling and promote healing in the areas treated with liposuction. They can also alleviate discomfort after your procedure.
- Use Medications as Prescribed: You will receive a prescription for pain medication and recommendations for over-the-counter options based on your needs. Keep up with your medication schedule to keep ahead of pain and maintain comfort during your recovery process.
- Use a BBL Pillow for Sitting: A special pillow allows you to sit comfortably while protecting your buttocks as your fat transfer takes hold.
- Eat a Healthy Diet and Stay Hydrated: Getting your fluids and nutrition supports your body while it heals, speeding up your recovery process and enhancing your comfort level.
- Take Time to Rest: A common source of discomfort for patients is overdoing their activities too soon. Give your body time to rest and recover, and you will likely have a more comfortable recovery.
Ready to Learn More About Brazilian Buttock Lifts in Beverly Hills?
A Brazilian Butt Lift in Beverly Hills is an effective body contouring procedure with minimal discomfort and a short recovery time. Dr. Bruce Kadz is a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in body sculpting treatments, including the BBL. To learn more, call our office at (424) 688-7046 or complete our online contact form.