Butt augmentation is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the world and is performed using a variety of methods. Two of the most popular methods are the Brazilian butt lift and fat grafting. Even though they have different names, there is not much difference between the two procedures.
A Brazilian butt lift and fat grafting is essentially the same thing. The main difference is that fat grafting can be performed almost anywhere in the body. On the other hand, a Brazilian butt lift is when an amount of fat is injected into the buttocks area of the body. The grafting of the fat to the buttocks region AKA Brazilian butt lift not only provides a lift to the buttocks but it also makes the area rounder and larger than before the procedure.
In a Brazilian butt lift procedure, liposuction is first performed to gather fat tissue from other areas such as the waist, thighs and back. The fat then undergoes a purification process before being injected into the butt area. The injection of the purified fat is made through a very small incision. A Brazilian butt lift uses approximately 300 to 350 cubic centimeters of purified fat for each butt cheek. That’s a total of 700 cubic centimeters, or half a pound of fat, that is needed for the lifting effect.
Fat grafting, on the other hand, involves directly cutting the fat tissue from its source. This fat tissue, along with the skin over it, are transferred and inserted into the butt. It is much like an implant except for the fact that the “implant” in this case is the patient’s own tissue. The source of fat grafting is typically the abdomen so a tummy tuck is done in conjunction with the butt augmentation. The excess skin and fat removed during a tummy tuck can be used to fill the butt area. The volume of tissue removed must be enough for the augmentation operation.
In general, butt augmentation is indicated for male and female patients who have butt-related problems which can include flat, sagging, asymmetrical and small buttocks. However, the techniques that require the use of the fat tissue are indicated only for those who have lots of unwanted fats on other parts of the body. Patients who are too thin or do not have enough excess fats are not suitable candidates. To be a good candidate for butt augmentation, a patient must be at least 20 pounds over his or her ideal weight.
Butt augmentation surgery carries the same risks and complications as any other surgical procedures. A few of the risks are bruising, swelling, pain and numbness but they should all fade over time. Stretch marks may also form on the patient’s skin over time. Fat embolism, as well as hematoma, is also a possibility. Fat embolism pertains to the blockage of a blood vessel by fat tissue while hematoma is a pooling of blood in the tissues.
Whether the procedure is referred to as Brazilian butt lift or a fat grafting produce, it can produce unpredictable results. The unpredictability stems from the fact that the transferred fat gets reabsorbed by the body over time. According to studies, only 70% of fat tissue gives the lifting effect. This percentage can be further reduced by other factors such as weight loss, aging, physical activity and a variety of systemic conditions. But patients who maintain a healthy lifestyle tend to get better and longer-lasting results.
The recovery period for any butt augmentation operation can last anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. There are certain limitations on the activities that the patient can take part in following the procedure. For instance, strenuous activities are not recommended for the first few days. On average, the patient can resume working out two to three weeks after the procedure is performed.
The overall results of butt augmentation are long-lasting as long as the procedure is done correctly. That’s why it is important to choose a board-certified surgeon that has experience with butt augmentation procedures. A board-certified surgeon can manage patient expectations as well as work to minimize any complications or side effects following the procedure.
