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BBL vs. Butt Implants – Which Option Is Right for You?

Published on February 25, 2024

Among the choices for enhancing buttocks to achieve a fuller, more rounded appearance, two popular options stand out: Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) and butt implants. Both procedures have their unique advantages and considerations. It’s important to understand the differences before deciding which buttock augmentation choice is right for them. In this blog post, we will compare BBL and butt implants, covering everything from the surgical techniques used to the recovery period and results.

What Is a Brazilian Butt Lift?

A Brazilian Butt Lift is a cosmetic procedure that involves the transfer of fat from other parts of the body to the buttocks. This technique enhances the size and shape of the buttocks without the use of artificial implants. Fat is typically harvested from areas like the abdomen, hips, thighs, or lower back through liposuction, purified, and then injected into the buttocks to create a more voluptuous appearance.

What Are Butt Implants?

Butt implants are artificial devices inserted into the buttocks to create volume and enhance shape. Made from silicone, these implants can vary in size and shape to match the patient’s desired outcome. Unlike BBL, which uses your body’s fat, butt implants introduce a foreign material to achieve augmentation.

Types of Butt Implants

Butt implants come in various shapes and sizes, including round and oval, to cater to different body types and aesthetic goals. The choice of implant depends on the patient’s body type and appearance goals. Some patients prefer a more pronounced projection while others aim for a subtle enhancement.

How the Procedure Is Performed

 

Brazilian Butt Lift

The BBL procedure starts with liposuction, where fat is removed from selected areas of the body. This fat is then purified and prepared for injection into the buttocks. The surgeon strategically injects fat into different areas and depths of the buttocks to create a natural-looking enhancement.

Butt Implants

The butt implant procedure involves creating an incision, usually in the crease between the buttocks or where the cheek meets the back of the thigh. Through this incision, the implant will be inserted either above or below the gluteal muscle. The placement depends on the patient’s body type, the size of the implants, and the surgeon’s recommendation.

Recovery Period

 

Brazilian Butt Lift

Recovery from a BBL typically takes about two weeks before you can return to light activities, with full recovery taking 4-6 weeks. Patients are advised to avoid sitting directly on their buttocks for the first two weeks and may need to use a special pillow when sitting.

Butt Implants

Full recovery from butt implant surgery may take 8-10 weeks. Most patients return to light activities after 2-3 weeks. It’s important to follow the surgeon’s advice on sitting and lying positions to ensure proper healing and avoid displacing the implants.

Results

 

Brazilian Butt Lift

Results from a BBL can look and feel natural, as the procedure uses the patient’s body fat. The final results are visible after the swelling subsides and the fat stabilizes. Patients can expect to see the full results around six months after the surgery. While some fat may be reabsorbed by the body, most of the transferred fat remains, offering long-lasting results.

Butt Implants

Butt implants provide an immediate and permanent increase in volume and shape. However, it may take eight weeks for the swelling to completely subside and for the implants to settle into their final position. The results are more predictable in terms of volume and shape compared to BBL.

Which Procedure Is Right For Me?

 

Brazilian Butt Lift

A BBL may be suitable for individuals who prefer a more natural augmentation method and have enough body fat for transfer. It’s also ideal for those looking to improve body contours in addition to enhancing the buttocks.

Butt Implants

Butt implants might be the right choice for those who do not have sufficient fat for a BBL or desire a more dramatic enhancement. It’s also suitable for individuals looking for a more predictable outcome in terms of shape and volume.

Contact Us to Learn More

Deciding between a Brazilian Butt Lift and butt implants involves considering various factors, including your aesthetic goals, body type, and lifestyle. To learn more about the procedures, contact us and schedule a consultation. Dr. Mofid will be available to provide personalized advice based on your specific needs.