The Brazilian Butt Lift Recovery: What To Expect.
Submitted by Dr. Bernabe Vazquez on March 28, 2021
If you’re considering a BBL, here’s what you need to know about the Brazilian Butt Lift recovery:
The Brazilian Butt Lift is one of the most-requested plastic surgery procedures in South Florida. Remember when the mantra related to a woman’s backside was “the smaller the better”? The era of shrinking your booty through excessive dieting and cardio are officially behind us — hallelujah! These days it’s all about the curves! Board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Bernabe Vazquez has decades of experience safely performing procedures like these.
What exactly IS a Brazilian Butt Lift?
Dr. Bernabe Vazquez performs 360-degree liposuction to remove fat from around the midsection, and transfers the fat strategically to the booty and hips, creating beautifully natural hourglass curves.
Something to keep in mind — not all of the transferred fat cells “take”, or stay where they’re put. Typically, During the Brazilian Butt Lift recovery patients retain between 50-80% of transferred fat. The rest is harmlessly absorbed into the body and/or passed through the body as waste. With this in mind, more fat than is really desired is often added to your backside in a BBL procedure, since the final result will only truly be realized after swelling and fat loss subside. At around six weeks post-op, you’ll be able to see your results accurately.
What can I expect during BBL recovery?
Following Dr. Vazquez’s guidance is extremely important to get the most out of your Brazilian Butt Lift. The more committed you are to protecting your investment within the first six weeks following surgery, the better your outcome. Swelling is often the most uncomfortable side effect following a BBL, however, if you follow proper recovery guidelines, you can minimize this period of swelling and improve your recovery.
During the first few weeks post-op, you’re going to need to baby that beautiful new booty! Be prepared for changes to many everyday activities for the first few weeks. For starters, you’ll be using a foam BBL pillow to relieve pressure from your butt when you are sitting. You’ll be encouraged to abstain from sleeping on your back or side as much as possible. Additionally, you’ll also wear a tight compression garment under your clothes for 6-12 weeks, depending on your recovery. This will control swelling, improve blood circulation, help with comfort, and expedite your recovery period.
During your first week post-op, you’ll need to plan to have help with daily activities like cooking, driving, grocery shopping, and tending to children and pets. After a few days, you’ll be given the okay to shower. Don’t be too proud to ask for help here. This can be a serious challenge. Bathing, going into the pool, or visiting the beach will be totally off-limits until you have completely healed. Seriously — don’t do it. The risk of infection just isn’t worth it.
What happens after a BBL?
You can expect your activity level will be pretty low-key for the first two to three weeks. Activities such as exercise and strenuous household chores will be limited. Walking, provided it’s not too hot outside (heat increases swelling, discomfort and fluid retention), is almost always a good idea, and is encouraged by Dr. Vazquez as soon as you feel physically up for it.
If Dr. Vazquez gives you the thumbs-up, you’ll be able to resume your higher impact exercise such as cycling and running around six weeks post-op. Keep in mind, there could still be some tenderness in the flanks and buttocks. Wearing compression-style pants, shorts, and tops can help keep the movement, and soreness, to a minimum.
Lymphatic massage after a BBL is fantastic for promoting blood flow to the area during recovery, promoting healing, and improving the appearance of the skin. Lymphatic massage can begin as soon after surgery as you’re physically comfortable with — just be sure to chat with Dr. Vazquez ahead of time, and double check that he recommends this option for you.
Is all this Brazilian Butt Lift recovery worth the results?
Yes, the recovery period after a Brazilian Butt Lift can be a little intimidating and intense, but the results will be worth it! If you’re committed to sticking with a healthy lifestyle, and following the recommended guidelines after your procedure, your results can last a decade or more!
Do you have questions? Are you ready to continue the conversation about a BBL or other plastic surgery procedure? Give us a call: (305) 858-8222
