Are There Differences Between a BBL and a Butt Lift?
A Brazilian butt lift (BBL) and a traditional butt lift do have similarities. At the end of the day, each one goes the distance to improve the shape of the buttocks and boost the patient’s confidence.
There are, however, differences between a BBL and a butt lift.
We’ll break it down here.
Technique and Recovery Are Two Big Differences Between a BBL and a Butt Lift
The traditional butt lift, also known as a gluteal lift, is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of fat and sagging or loose skin in the lower back area, followed by the repositioning of gluteal tissues. After this procedure, patients usually experience some bruising and swelling that can be alleviated by gentle walking to improve circulation. Most patients can resume light work within two to three weeks, but intense physical activity is usually delayed for six weeks.
Meanwhile, the Brazilian butt lift procedure involves fat transfer. The procedure begins with liposuction to harvest fat from different parts of the body. The fat is then processed and injected above the gluteal muscles. Healing from a BBL requires avoiding pressure on the transferred fat for the first few weeks. Special attention is paid to aftercare to protect the fat grafts. Patients can resume normal activities in the first two to three weeks. However, intense activity should be avoided until the surgeon clears it.
Will There Be Scarring?
Since a regular buttock lift involves a board-certified plastic surgeon making incisions to remove excess skin, there is typically visible scarring. This isn’t as off-putting as it sounds. The incisions are made along the top of the buttocks or in the natural crease to make them less noticeable. Plus, in caring for the scars properly, patients can expect significant fading over time. The surgeon may also recommend laser treatments to further minimize the appearance of scarring.
On the other hand, there is minimal scarring with a Brazilian butt lift. This is because the procedure uses liposuction and small cannulas for injecting the fat. The required incisions for the cannulas are very small and are made in discreet areas of the body. They heal quickly and fade to barely noticeable marks.
So Which One Is Right for You?
Whether you choose a BBL or a more traditional butt lift goes beyond your personal feeling about scarring. Your choice will ultimately depend on the outcome you’re seeking. Though both procedures lift the buttocks, the results can be quite different.
Traditional Butt Lift
In cases where a patient has experienced significant weight loss and now has excess skin that needs removing, a traditional butt lift would be the first consideration. It is also the top choice for those who may not have many areas of the body with excess fat for removal and grafting.
A traditional butt lift typically results in a more toned and firm buttock area rather than one that’s more voluminous. Most patients experience a perkier, tighter, and more uplifted contour to their rear ends.
BBL
Meanwhile, the Brazilian butt lift is all about adding volume and fullness while enhancing the overall shape of the buttocks. A BBL can only work on patients who have enough fat in other areas of the body that would serve as donor sites though.
The result of fat grafting is a more natural and youthful contour. In addition, skin texture is improved because of collagen stimulation. So that’s a nice bonus.
Give Your Buttocks and Your Confidence a Boost
Now that you know the differences between a BBL and a butt lift, you may feel certain about which one is right for you. Then again, you may still be waffling.
Either way, it’s okay! We’re here for you.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation with our board-certified plastic surgeons. They’ll answer any other questions you may have so you can feel sure about your choice.