Buttock fat grafting, also known as a Brazilian Butt Lift or BBL is a cosmetic procedure that involves removing fat from one area of the body and transplanting it to the buttocks to enhance their shape and size. Like it is the case with any surgical procedure performed for aesthetic purposes, there are pros and cons to fat transfer to the buttocks.
To get the best possible results from your plastic surgery procedure it is important to choose a board-certified, experienced plastic surgeon to play out the intervention.
Miami Plastic Surgeon Dr. Karan Chopra has years of experience performing butt augmentation procedures such as the Brazilian butt lift.
How Is the Fat Transfer to the Buttocks Performed?
To better understand the advantages and disadvantages of the procedure, it is essential to understand how the surgery is performed. Here is a general overview of the procedure:
1. Anesthesia
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation.
2. Liposuction
The first step is to remove excess fat from a donor site, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, or back. This is done using liposuction, a surgical technique that uses a cannula and suction to remove fat.
3. Processing the fat
The removed fat is then processed to remove any blood or fluid and to prepare it for transplantation.
4. Injecting the fat
The processed fat is then carefully injected into the buttocks using a syringe and a small cannula. The fat is strategically placed to achieve the desired shape and volume.
5. Closing the incisions
Once the fat injection is complete, the incisions from the liposuction are closed with sutures or surgical glue.
The entire procedure can take several hours, depending on the extent of fat removal and injection. After the procedure, you will need to rest and limit your physical activity for several weeks to allow for proper healing and to minimize the risk of complications.
Pros of Getting Fat Grafted into the Buttocks
There are several potential benefits to getting a fat transfer to the buttocks. The benefits may vary from person to person and that the final outcome will depend on several factors, including the individual’s anatomy, the extent of the procedure, and the surgeon’s experience and technique. Among the benefits we can mention:
Natural-looking results
Fat transfer to the buttocks uses your own body fat, so the results are natural-looking and can blend seamlessly with your existing body contours. This is especially important for patients seeking a natural enhancement and who don’t want to look like they had surgery done.
Minimal scarring
Liposuction incisions for the fat transfer are small and typically well-hidden, so scarring is minimal. The scars left behind after liposuction performed to harvest the fat for the grafting are usually masked by the natural folds or color of the skin in the area treated, so they are not too visible either.
Customizable
The amount of fat that can be transferred to the buttocks can be customized to achieve the desired size and shape, giving you more control over the final result. How big your butt will be after getting a fat graft to the buttocks depends on the amount of fat that can be collected from the donor area or areas. However, depending on the desired results, your plastic surgeon can inject more or less fat.
Dual procedure
The procedure combines liposuction and a fat transfer, so you can achieve two benefits in one procedure. Liposuction can remove excess fat from areas of your body where you don’t want it, while the fat transfer can add volume and shape to your buttocks.
Non-surgical alternative
Fat transfer to the buttocks is a less invasive alternative to traditional buttock augmentation methods, such as implants.
Long-lasting results
Once the fat has been successfully transferred and has had time to heal, the results can be long-lasting, provided that you maintain a stable weight and overall health.
Cons of Getting Fat Grafted into the Buttocks
Generally speaking, the risks and complications associated with fat transfer to the buttocks are minimal when the procedure is performed by an experienced plastic surgeon and the patient is fully committed to following the post-operative indications. However, here are some of the potential drawbacks to consider before getting a fat transfer to the buttocks:
Not all fat will survive
Not all of the transferred fat will survive and become permanent in the buttocks. The amount of retained fat can vary depending on the individual and the technique used.
Risk of complications
As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complications, including infection, bleeding, scarring, asymmetry, and dissatisfaction with the final result.
Recovery time
The recovery time for a fat transfer to the buttocks can vary, but it typically requires several weeks of rest and limited physical activity.
Cost
The cost of a fat transfer to the buttocks can be high, and it is considered an elective procedure, so it is typically not covered by insurance.
Maintenance
A fat transfer to the buttocks is a long-term solution, but it is important to maintain a stable weight and overall health to ensure the best possible outcome.
Long-term results are uncertain
There is limited data on the long-term results of fat transfer to the buttocks, and it is unclear how the results may change over time.
What You Should Know Before Getting a Fat Transfer to the Buttocks?
Before getting a fat transfer to the buttocks, it is important to consider the following factors:
- Realistic expectations: It is important to have realistic expectations for the procedure and understand that it is not a guarantee for a specific size or shape. Your plastic surgeon will be able to provide you with more information about the expected outcome based on your specific goals and anatomy.
- Safety: The procedure should only be performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon in an accredited medical facility. It is important to discuss the risks and potential complications of the procedure with your surgeon to ensure that you fully understand the potential outcomes.
- Fat retention: Not all of the transferred fat will survive and become permanent in the buttocks. The amount of retained fat can vary depending on the individual and the technique used.
- Scarring: Liposuction incisions will leave scars, which can take several months to fade. Your surgeon will discuss the location and size of the incisions with you and provide you with aftercare instructions to minimize scarring.
- Cost: The cost of a fat transfer to the buttocks can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the location. It is important to discuss the cost and any potential financing options with your surgeon.
- Maintenance: A fat transfer to the buttocks is a long-term solution, but it is important to maintain a stable weight and overall health to ensure the best possible outcome.
It is important to thoroughly research and carefully consider these factors before deciding to undergo a fat transfer to the buttocks.
FAQs about Fat Transfer
to the Buttock
How long does fat transfer to buttocks last?
The duration of the results of the fat transfer to the buttocks can vary from person to person. On average, about 50-60% of the transferred fat can persist long-term. However, the longevity of the results can depend on several factors, such as the patient’s age, weight, and health, as well as the technique used by the surgeon.
What are the risks of fat transfer to the buttocks?
Like any surgical procedure, fat transfer to the buttocks has its own set of risks and potential complications. Some of the most common risks include: infection, bleeding, numbness or loss of sensation, fat necrosis (death of fat cells), asymmetry, pain or discomfort and unsatisfactory results.
How much fat do you need for a fat transfer to buttocks?
The amount of fat needed for a fat transfer to the buttocks can vary depending on the individual’s desired outcome and the surgeon’s technique. Typically, a fat transfer procedure to the buttocks can require anywhere from 500 to 1000 milliliters (or about 2 to 4 cups) of fat, although some procedures may require more or less. The amount of fat that can be successfully transferred and retained in the target area also depends on the individual’s body and their ability to retain the transferred fat. It is best to discuss your desired results and the amount of fat needed with your plastic surgeon, who can give you a more personalized estimate.
How is the recovery after fat grafting to the butt?
Recovery after a fat transfer to the buttocks can vary depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Here are some general guidelines for what you can expect after the procedure:
Pain and swelling: You may experience some pain and swelling in the buttocks area, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by your surgeon.
.. Rest and activity restrictions: You will need to limit your physical activity for several weeks after the procedure to allow for proper healing. You may be advised to avoid sitting or lying directly on your buttocks for a specified period of time.
Wearing a compression garment: Your surgeon may ask you to wear a compression garment for several weeks after the procedure to help reduce swelling and support the treated area.
Follow-up appointments: You will need to attend follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and ensure proper healing.
Final results: It may take several months to see the final results of the procedure, as the transferred fat cells need time to settle and integrate into the surrounding tissue.
It is important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and the best possible outcome from your fat transfer procedure.
Who is a good candidate for buttocks fat grafting?
A good candidate for a fat transfer to the buttocks is someone who has sufficient amounts of fat to harvest from other areas of their body, such as the abdomen, hips, or thighs. Some other factors that can contribute to candidacy include: age, body weight, skin quality and goals. You should be in good overall health and over the age of 18. You should also be within a healthy body weight range and not significantly overweight or underweight. Good skin quality and elasticity can improve the chances of a successful fat transfer and a smooth, natural-looking result. You should have realistic expectations for the procedure and understand the limitations and potential risks involved. It is important to have a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon to determine if you are a good candidate for a fat transfer to the buttocks. During the consultation, your surgeon will assess your health, discuss your goals and expectations, and evaluate the amount and quality of fat available for harvest. They will also discuss the procedure itself, the expected outcome, and any potential risks and complications.
