The Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a popular body contouring procedure that can create a slim waistline, and volumize the buttock. The medical description is liposuction with fat grafting to the buttock. In this procedure, the surgeon removes fat from multiple areas such as the bra roll, waist, hip, and abdomen. Afterwards, the fat is purified by removing excess water and oil. Next, the fat is injected into the buttock to enhance the shape and projection.
Here are some of the questions I’m most asked about in regard to BBL:
1. When I researched this procedure, I read about negative news on BBL. Is this procedure safe?
Yes. The procedure is safe. However, I will discuss the evolution of this procedure including current guidelines set forth by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).
Unfortunately, there have been serious issues after BBL, mainly from doctors in the South Florida area. The complications involved young healthy women whom all suffered fat embolism.
The ASPS created a task force that studied the vasculature and anatomy and identified the danger zones. The conclusion is that the fat must be placed ABOVE the muscle, in the subcutaneous space. Placing the fat into the muscle significantly increases the risk for fat migration to the lungs.
In order to maximize safety, our society mandates we use ultrasound technology to stay subcutaneous by visual confirmation. The deep gluteal fascia must stay intact. With ultrasound, the layers of the subcutaneous fat and muscle is clearly seen. Thus, the fat can be precisely and safely placed to provide volume and projection. It never has to be a blind or a “feel by touch” procedure. When using ultrasound to inject fat, BBL is now considered safe procedure.
2. What is your technique to place fat?
My technique is EVL, which is known as expansion vibration lipofilling. I collect fat into a purifying system that produces high quality fat. I use an automatic injector with ultrasound guidance to place the fat in the subcutaneous space. The technique allows safe yet efficient delivery of fat. Also, I can do targeted fat grafting, placing it in the superficial compartment for hip dips and skin dimples, and in the deep fat compartment for dome projection.
3. Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
As with all body contouring procedures, patients should be healthy and within a BMI range of less than 30. We are even able to treat low BMI patients with a BBL, as the small injection volumes can still improve shape. With our new technology, we can use fat to get desired results due to better processing system and precise placement.
4. What does the recovery entail?
The typical recovery time is about 6 weeks. We prefer you do not sit directly on your buttocks for several weeks. Our patients use a boppy® pillow or specialty BBL support when sitting continuously for more than 30 minutes. You will also wear a special compression garment and can start lymphatic massage treatments within a few weeks. Most patients can resume physical activity within 4-6 weeks.
If you are interested in a BBL consultation with Dr. Shah, contact our Orland Park office at 708.614.6600 or submit a consultation request form here.
