The Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is spiking in popularity right now among those seeking to enhance the fullness and contours of their buttocks. When it comes to a BBL, there are some misconceptions. For example, many people confuse the BBL with other types of butt augmentation procedures, like injections. In reality, these are two different types of procedures that may or may not be appropriate for a particular individual.
| Buttocks Injections | Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) |
|---|---|
| Non-surgical procedure | Surgical procedure |
| Uses dermal fillers such as silicone or hydrogel | Uses patient’s own fat to enhance the buttocks |
| Immediate results | Results may take several weeks to fully develop |
| Effects are temporary | Effects are permanent |
| Lower cost | Higher cost |
| Lower risk of complications | Higher risk of complications |
| Can be done with minimal recovery time | Requires several weeks of recovery time |
It’s important to note that this table is a general overview of the main differences between Buttocks Injections and BBL, and it’s important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to determine which procedure is best for you.
What is the Brazilian Butt Lift?
The Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a type of cosmetic procedure involving the removal of fat from the patient’s own body for transfer into the buttocks to enhance the appearance of this area. Women often choose to undergo it because they find that weight fluctuations, or the aging process, have led to the loss of contours with their buttocks and an unsightly, sagging appearance.
BBL Confusion
Some people mistakenly believe that the BBL procedure is the same as buttocks implants. In reality, these are two different procedures. The BBL utilizes a natural fat transfer procedure to create more fullness in the buttocks, while injections and implants involve the insertion of foreign objects or materials into the body. This doesn’t necessarily make them illegitimate or unadvisable; it simply means that they are different procedures.
Buttocks Implants
In most cases, manufacturers make buttocks implants from a silicone material that is resistant to pressure and stress without leading to a distorted shape. As with breast implants, buttocks implants are available in a variety of sizes and shapes. In comparison to buttocks implants, the BBL offers more natural results.
Buttocks Injections
In contrast to both the BBL and buttocks implants, buttocks injections involve the injection of dermal fillers into the buttocks to create additional volume. The most commonly used fillers for buttocks augmentation are Sculptra and Radiesse.
Buttocks injections work by stimulating the body’s own production of collagen, which is a natural substance that creates bulk and volume within soft tissues. This treatment offers some immediate results, while the full effects take a couple of weeks to become completely evident.
Although buttocks injections are right for some people, they cannot offer the same dramatic results that can achieve by undergoing a BBL procedure.
Another key fact about injections is that they are not a permanent procedure. The body will eventually metabolize the injected substances, and the patient would need follow-up injections to maintain their results.
Procedure Costs
Here are the average costs for a BBL, buttocks implants, and buttocks injections, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons:
- BBL: $4,807
- Buttocks implants: $5,278
- Buttocks injections: $5,000
The cost of your individual procedure may vary some from this average, depending upon factors like your geographic area and the individual plastic surgeon performing your procedure. To determine the exact cost of your own cosmetic procedure, meet with your surgeon at a consultation.
The costs associated with cosmetic procedures are not normally covered by insurance, since insurance companies consider them to be elective.
Another important distinction between buttocks injections and the BBL is the length of results. The length of injections varies, as the injected substance is eventually absorbed by the body, leading to a loss of results. With buttocks implants, there are possible problems with implant leakage, just as with some types of breast implants.
The fat injected during a BBL can last for many years if the patient takes proper care of themselves, and the plastic surgeon was trained and experienced.
Side Effects
Side effects following buttocks injections or a BBL are rare, but they can occur.
BBL Effects
Side effects can also occur after a BBL, which is why you should always select a board-certified plastic surgeon who has years of experience in performing this type of procedure.
Contact your plastic surgeon if you should experience any of the following after your BBL procedure:
- Fever
- Yellow fluid drainage
- Shortness of breath
Buttocks Injections vs. BBL: Recovery
Recovery time after buttocks injections is minimal. Within a day or two, you should be able to resume most of your normal activities. On the other hand, the recovery for BBL is much more involved. You’ll need to wait around six to eight weeks before you can directly sit on your buttocks, for example.
The Bottom Line
If you are still undecided about whether to go with buttocks injections or a BBL, take your time with your thought processes. Schedule a consultation with your preferred plastic surgeon. They will be able to look at all of the factors involved with your individual situation to recommend the most appropriate cosmetic treatment to help you achieve your treatment goals.
