No one wants a BBL gone wrong to turn out badly. Sadly, it can happen.
Although ending up with a BBL surgery gone wrong is rare, it’s important to be aware of what usually leads to such an unfortunate outcome. This is what we’ll be discussing in this article. But first, what is a BBL?
What Is BBL Surgery?
Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgery is a cosmetic procedure that involves transferring fat from other parts of the body to the buttocks to create a fuller, more contoured appearance. This surgery not only enhances the shape and size of the butt and hips, but it also sculpts the areas where fat is taken from: the abdomen, thighs, flanks, etc.
The dual benefit of fat removal and butt augmentation makes the BBL a highly sought-after procedure for healthy young female patients and older women alike.
How Can BBL Surgery Go Wrong?
If you end up with a botched BBL surgery gone wrong (botched Brazilian butt lift), it may be one of several issues, including:
- Soft tissue infections
- Bleeding
- Fat necrosis
- Fat embolism
- Irregular contours
- Uneven results
- Misplacement of cannula
- Injury to organs
- Poor outcome overall
BBL surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries potential risks and complications. One of the primary concerns is fat embolism, where fat enters the bloodstream and causes a blockage. This can later lead to more severe problems.
Incorrect injection techniques can also result in asymmetry, uneven results, or excessive fat absorption, diminishing the final outcome. Lastly, infections are a risk, especially when surgeons follow poor infection control practices or when post-operative care instructions are not adhered to.
Understanding BBL Complications and How to Manage Them
Like any initial cosmetic surgical procedure, a BBL procedure carries certain risks that patients should understand before surgery. While the Brazilian butt lift BBL helps enhance curves through fat transfer, issues can occur if too much fat or injected fat enters the bloodstream, which can lead to a fat or pulmonary embolism.
In some cases, patients may develop initial bilateral gluteal lesions or trauma to the bilateral gluteal soft tissues, creating multiple soft tissue defects or mild bilateral lower extremity swelling during recovery.
More serious BBL complications are rare but can include complicated postoperative infections that may require broad spectrum antibiotic therapy, IV antibiotic treatment, or prescribed oral antibiotics and oral antimicrobial therapy.
Occasionally, tests may reveal a positive rapid HIV test or positive erythromycin inducible resistance, which can influence resistant treatments characteristics and how doctors select medications for healing.
Working with an experienced plastic surgeon or skilled surgeon is the best way to reduce BBL complications and ensure a safe initial procedure. Careful handling of fat cells, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and managing excess fat all support long-term results. Remember, even with the best outcomes, the natural aging process can gradually change your results, but proper care and timely follow-ups will help maintain them. When needed, additional surgical procedures can refine or enhance the outcome safely.
Do This to Avoid a Botched BBL
Here are some tips to prevent a BBL gone wrong.
1. Research and Verify Your Surgeon’s Reputation
Take the time to research your surgeon’s credentials, experience, and patient reviews. Look at their BBL before and after photos, and verify their reputation through multiple sources. You want to ensure you’re selecting a highly qualified professional with a track record of successful outcomes.
2. Make Sure Your Surgeon Is Board Certified
Board certification is a critical factor in selecting a plastic surgeon for your BBL. In fact, the BBL death rate is extremely low in general, but it is even lower for board-certified surgeons.
When you know your surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, you know they have undergone rigorous training and testing, demonstrating their expertise in plastic surgery. In order to be board certified, one must demonstrate his or her abilities in safety, ethics, and professionalism in order to minimize risks and maximize results.
3. Never Choose Your Surgeon Based on Pricing
Opting for the cheapest option when it comes to BBL surgery is extremely risky, though, unfortunately, some patients will do it.
Low-cost procedures often mean corners are cut, whether in terms of the surgeon’s experience, the quality of materials used, or the facility’s standards. You naturally want the highest level of care, which will significantly reduce your risk of complications.
4. Get Yourself in Good Health
Your overall health plays a big role in the success of your BBL surgery too. Being in good physical condition prior to surgery and taking care of yourself after surgery will help you both tolerate the operation better and heal faster.
5. Manage Your Recovery Responsibly
The recovery process for a Brazilian butt lift is a crucial period. You must follow your surgeon’s instructions diligently, which may include wearing compression garments, avoiding sitting directly on your buttocks for a specified period, and attending all follow-up appointments. Proper care during recovery will ensure that the fat grafts survive and that your results are as expected.
6. Communicate Openly with Your Surgeon
Open communication with your surgeon is essential before, during, and after your BBL surgery. Discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history in detail during the consultation. This will assist your surgeon in tailoring your procedure to your needs. Both before and after surgery, do not hesitate to ask questions and seek clarification on any aspect of your experience.
FAQ: BBL Gone Wrong? How to Avoid It
Is a BBL procedure painful?
No, BBL surgery is not painful. You will be under general anesthesia and perfectly comfortable during the procedure. After surgery, however, you will be prescribed pain medications to deal with the soreness, which usually lasts for just a few days,
How can a tummy tuck and BBL go wrong?
If you are unfortunate enough to experience a tummy tuck BBL surgery gone wrong, there are several things that may go wrong, including infection, excessive bleeding, poor outcome, fat necrosis, uneven results, remaining excess skin on the abdomen, lumpy BBL scars, and more. Again, this can usually be attributed to a surgeon who is unqualified or a patient who does not take care of themselves during recovery.
How much does a BBL cost?
The BBL cost can vary depending on several factors, including your surgeon’s experience, the clinic’s location, anesthesia fees, and the amount of fat to be transferred. During your consultation, your surgeon will provide a personalized quote based on your goals and treatment plan.
Meet with Dr. Schulman for a Consultation
While there certainly are risks associated with BBL surgery, these are surgical procedures that typically go very well — especially when performed by an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Matthew Schulman possesses both of these attributes.
As a board-certified surgeon specializing in body contouring procedures such as Brazilian butt lift surgery, Dr. Schulman is highly sought-after in his field. He also offers BBL surgeries in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Boston. Contact us today to set up an initial consultation appointment with Dr. Schulman and his team.
