[liv]® Plastic Surgery Blog

BBL Recovery Timeline | Brazilian Butt Lift tips

Written by Dr. Andrew Ress, M.D. | Dec 6, 2019 9:00:30 AM

BBL recovery, or recovery after a Brazilian buttock lift, is a common inquiry regarding this rather popular plastic surgery. This particular gluteal augmentation procedure is a type of surgery that is performed using a person’s own fat to augment and shape the buttocks. 

The procedure is performed using liposuction to remove fat from other areas of the body (stomach, hips, and ties), and then transferring it into the buttocks. Additional liposuction can be performed around the buttocks in order to improve their appearance – lifting and contouring it, ultimately bringing more perky and youthful results, as well as a more sensual profile. 

If you want to find out more about BBL recovery time and how long it last, read the text below.

How long does BBL recovery time last?

The initial recovery after a Brazilian butt lift can last 3 to 4 weeks, at least for a patient to feel back to normal. As a result of immediate BBL post op, a patient starts experiencing bruising or swelling in the areas that used to harvest the fat cells. 

BBL recovery week by week and the stages you will go through

BBL surgery recovery involves different stages that often span a number of weeks before you can say that the healing process is over.

Wearing a compression garment

This is the first stage of recovery, and for BBL 3 weeks post-op is the estimated duration of this stage.  A compression garment is placed around surgical sites where the liposuction was performed and therefore should reduce swelling, and bruising and aid the retraction of the skin. 

It is also supposed to maintain the shape of the buttocks by supporting the newly injected tissue. 

Sometimes two garments can be placed on the region where liposuction was performed, in which cases it is advised to remove the outer garment 10 minutes before the inner one, in order to reduce the feeling of being dizzy or fainting. 

Sitting is prohibited

Although it goes without saying that you should get plenty of rest after surgery, sitting after your BBL procedure is severely prohibited for at least 2 weeks post-op BBL. The reason for this stems from the fact that pressure will kill the newly injected fat before it has time to develop sufficient blood flow. 

At this stage of recovery, patients are required to rest and sleep on their stomachs, or on their sides, with the help of pillows to prop them up. 

Discharge of fluid from the incisions

This kind of discharge can happen in the spots of liposuction incisions, but it’s quite normal and can happen for a span of a few days. It is actually better that a larger amount of fluid leaves the wounds since it will cause less bruising. You should cover your furniture with a towel or a plastic cover to protect it from leakages.

Moisture your skin daily

It is recommended that patients apply heavy lotion to the treatment areas in order to keep the skin hydrated. This will also prevent any itching caused by the skin-drying effects of liposuction. You should do this 3 times a day for 6 weeks at least.

Restrict your daily activities

You should restrict any kind of activity that raises blood pressure, at least 1-week post-op BBL, since this can cause bleeding in the treated areas. However, taking short walks does not fall under this category, and can actually speed up the healing process and minimize the risk of blood clots forming. 

With the passing of the first week, you can start gradually increasing your activities, but bear in mind that this applies only to some patients – others might need longer than that to recover. 

When it comes to BBL 2 weeks post op – this is when you can begin upper body exercise, but any kind of exercise that strains the wounds should be avoided for at least 4 weeks post-op bbl, up until six weeks, while heavy lifting and cardio should be avoided for 6 to 8 weeks. 

Brazilian Butt Lift Recovery Tips

  • Follow all post-op instructions you have been given by your surgeon.
  • Attend follow-up meetings regularly.
  • Stretch your legs on a regular basis in order to speed up and encourage the healing.
  • Wear your compression garment as you’re instructed.
  • Get plenty of rest.
  • Eat healthy and stay hydrated at all times during stages of recovery.
  • Avoid pools and hot tubs.
  • Wear loose-fitting clothes. 

BBL recovery pain you might experience

BBL healing time after the procedure is as painful as many other surgeries, but what most people experience can be described more as soreness. This kind of pain they feel in the buttocks is a muscular soreness, where they feel discomfort the most. 

Of course, much like with any other surgery, during your recovery from BBL, you will be provided with pain medications and other measures that will make the pain as bearable as possible. 

BBL side effects you should be prepared for

It completely normal to experience certain side effects during recovery after a BBL procedure. The most common side effects are bruising, swelling, and discomfort in the treated area, so the pain medications should be directed accordingly. This area will also be swollen, but won’t be as painful. 

Brazilian buttock lift healing time involves some scarring, it should be minimal and should take place only at the entry points where the cells are inserted. 

Bear in mind that this procedure is considered invasive and that it involves anesthesia. There is a small risk for hematoma, seroma, and infection formation, but these risks are heavily reduced if you follow through with BBL recovery instructions.

What is great about BBL procedures, procedures like mommy makeover can be performed simultaneously, but they also can motivate you to lead a healthier lifestyle. 

Usually, patients love so much the final results of this surgery, and the newly found confidence inspires them to lead an overall healthier lifestyle. Suddenly, eating healthy and regular exercise doesn’t seem like a chore anymore, so if you want to obtain the same feeling, book your BBL consultation at Liv Plastic Surgery as soon as possible!