The recovery process after a Brazilian butt lift, or BBL, is a little more demanding than a typical liposuction procedure. During a BBL, the surgeon will make incisions in the donor area to remove fat via liposuction. One or more areas of the body may require liposuction in order to gain enough fat to properly augment the buttocks. The fat is then purified and injected into the various layers of tissue to add shape and volume to the buttocks. Since it takes time for the transferred fat to be unified with the existing fat, and integrate an adequate supply of blood circulation, it is important for a patient to understand the BBL recovery process.
Common Side Effects
After a Brazilian butt lift, the patient can expect some common side effects. It is normal to have swelling, bruising and discomfort in the donor area so pain medications should be taken as directed. The recipient area will also be swollen and bruised but is typically not painful. Swelling in both areas can last for several weeks, or even months, but will resolve on its own.
Compression Garment
A compression garment will be placed around the surgical sites and should be worn 24 hours a day for approximately 3 or 4 weeks. The garment will reduce swelling, bruising and aid in the retraction of the skin. It will also help maintain the shape of the buttocks by supporting the newly injected tissue. In some cases, there may be two garments on the liposuction region. It is recommended to remove the outer garment 10 minutes before the inner garment to reduce the risk of feeling dizzy and/or fainting.
Sitting After a BBL
While it is recommended to get plenty of rest after surgery, patients will not be permitted to sit or rest on their buttocks after a BBL. They should rest on the stomach or side while using pillows to prop themself up. Patients will not be allowed to sit on the buttocks for the first two weeks after a BBL since the pressure will kill the newly injected fat before it has time to develop sufficient blood flow. At two weeks, they can use a boppy pillow or a rolled-up towel under the knees to better sit and sleep after the augmentation.
Fluid Discharge from the Incisions
There might be some blood-tinged fluid oozing from the liposuction incisions. This is normal and may continue for several days. The more fluid that leaves the site, the less bruising there will be. It is recommended to sit, or lay, on a towel or plastic covering to protect furniture from leakages.
Moisture the Skin Daily
After two days, patients can begin applying heavy lotion to the treatment areas to keep the skin hydrated. This will also help alleviate any itching caused by the skin-drying effects of liposuction. The buttocks should be gently massaged 3 times a day for approximately 6 weeks.
Activity Restrictions
Any activity that raises the blood pressure should be limited during the first week of recovery since this can cause bleeding in the treatment area. However, taking short walks several times a day will help to speed recovery and minimize the risk of blood clots. One week after BBL, patients can begin gradually increasing activities and light duty work. Some patients need two weeks off for recovery. At two weeks, they can begin upper body exercise but any exercise that strains the surgical sites should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks. Heavy lifting, jogging and contact sports should be avoided until 6 to 8 weeks post-op.
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