When you first hear about a Brazilian butt lift (BBL), it can sound like the perfect fix for anyone seeking a curvier, more lifted backside. After all, this procedure uses your own body fat, typically taken from the abdomen or thighs, to enhance and shape your buttocks. However, as with any surgery, there are risks and realities you need to understand before making a decision. At Sarasota Surgical Arts, we believe in educating our patients so they can feel confident and informed about their choices. Let’s talk about some of the dangers associated with a BBL and how you can minimize your risk.
Understanding the Basics
During a Brazilian butt lift, fat is harvested from an area of your body where you’d like less fullness—often the abdomen, flanks, or thighs—and then transferred to your buttocks to create a more rounded shape. It’s important to note that not all the fat cells will survive after transfer, so typically, a slight overcorrection is done. That said, the big draw is that you’re using your own fat rather than implants, reducing concerns like allergic reactions. Still, the procedure isn’t without its own complications.
The Serious Risks
One of the most alarming dangers associated with a BBL is a fat embolism. This happens when fat accidentally enters your bloodstream and blocks a blood vessel, which can be life-threatening if it travels to your lungs or heart. Research suggests that BBL carries a higher mortality rate compared to some other cosmetic surgeries, largely due to the risk of fat embolism. This is why it’s crucial to choose a board-certified surgeon who has extensive experience performing BBLs and knows exactly how to avoid injecting fat into or below the muscle, where the risk of embolism is heightened.
Beyond the risk of fat embolism, other complications can include infections, poor wound healing, and asymmetry. While these may not be life-threatening, they can still lead to dissatisfaction with your final results and, in some cases, require revision procedures.
Minimizing the Dangers
So, how do you reduce your risk? The first step is selecting a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in Brazilian butt lifts. At Sarasota Surgical Arts, Dr. Alberico Sessa uses precise techniques and detailed anatomical knowledge to keep fat injections safe and superficial (within the subcutaneous layer) rather than deep into the muscle. We believe in customizing the approach to fit your body type and goals while placing safety above all else.
Second, a thorough consultation and evaluation can determine if you’re a good candidate. Ideal candidates are typically non-smokers, in good overall health, and have sufficient fat for harvesting. Proper pre-operative and post-operative care (like following instructions for activity restrictions and wearing compression garments) is also essential in minimizing complications.
Why Communication Matters
We always encourage open, honest communication. Don’t hesitate to ask your surgeon questions: How many BBL procedures have they performed? What’s their complication rate? Will they be using ultrasound or other technology during the procedure to assist with safe fat placement? Having these conversations ensures you fully understand the process and any associated risks.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re considering a Brazilian butt lift, understanding both the rewards and the risks is crucial. We welcome you to reach out to us at Sarasota Surgical Arts to schedule a BBL consultation in Sarasota with Dr. Alberico Sessa. Together, we can discuss your aesthetic goals, evaluate whether you’re a good candidate, and create a personalized plan that prioritizes your safety and well-being.
Give us a call at (941) 923-1736 to learn more about the procedure and book your appointment. Our mission is to help you make informed decisions about your body and your future. You deserve to feel confident and comfortable in your own skin, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
