The Brazilian butt lift is one of the most in demand procedures performed to improve the appearance of the buttocks. There are a few, very simple reasons why patients prefer to undergo this procedure whenever possible. More than anything else, patients like the idea of achieving results that look and actually are 100% natural. Another reason for the popularity of the procedure is the low risks involved with it. Of course, no procedure is risk free and neither is the Brazilian butt lift, but it is true that the procedure is associated with fewer risks and complications compared to other procedures performed on the buttocks.
Among the risks that can occur after undergoing the Brazilian butt lift are fat necrosis. So, what is fat necrosis and how can we avoid it after having a BBL?
Fat necrosis is a condition that occurs in the adipose tissue when there is a lack of proper oxygenation or a lack of proper blood supply in the area. What actually happens is that the fat cells die and in the process inflammation and even minor pain can occur. The outside appearance of fat necrosis is often that of a lump. Usually, there is no pain or very minor pain associated with it, but patients can worry at the appearance of the lump under the skin. What usually happens is that these lumps disappear over time or shrink. If the patient is bothered by it, the plastic surgeon can decide to excise it.
However, it is important to do our best to avoid fat necrosis after fat transfer procedures, especially the Brazilian butt lift, as it might alter the results. During the BBL, fat cells are removed from areas with an excess of adipose tissue and transferred to the buttocks after going through a thorough process of purification. Pure, healthy cells are injected into the buttocks to create a nice shape and give it more volume.
After the procedure, patients need to be very careful about certain things. For example, patients should know that smoking can lead to fat necrosis after the BBL. Hence, the recommendation is to avoid smoking for at least three weeks before and after the procedure to avoid fat necrosis and other complications associated with smoking. Moreover, unnecessary pressure applied on the buttocks too early after the Brazilian butt lift could also lead to fat necrosis. This means that it is important to avoid sitting on the buttocks or lying on the back for a minimum of three weeks post-op. And even after these three weeks, patients should use a special pillow for a few more weeks to ensure the fat cells that were transferred to the buttocks survive.
In some cases, there are infection-like symptoms associated with fat necrosis. Make sure to see the plastic surgeon for a correct diagnostic.