In the realm of cosmetic surgeries, butt augmentation procedures are steadily gaining popularity. Two prominent options for enhancing the buttocks are butt implants and the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL). Both procedures offer their unique advantages and drawbacks, and the choice between the two often depends on the individual’s body type, aesthetic goals, and personal preferences.
Butt Implants Surgery
Procedure Overview
Butt implant surgery, also known as buttock augmentation, is a popular enhancement procedure that involves the insertion of solid silicone shells into or below the gluteal muscles to achieve a fuller shape. During the surgery, the surgeon makes an incision between the butt cheeks, minimizing visible scar tissue.
The silicone implants, which come in a variety of shapes and sizes, are designed to withstand the pressure and stress of daily activities without becoming misshapen or causing discomfort. The location of the implant can significantly impact the natural look of the buttocks, the recovery process, and the potential risks.
Benefits and Drawbacks
Buttock implants offer a permanent solution for individuals looking to increase the size of their buttocks dramatically. However, there is a significant risk of complications with this procedure, such as accumulation of blood and fluid under the skin, infection, permanent scarring, implant shifting, changes in skin tone, uneven appearance, and implant rupture.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates for butt implant surgery are individuals with a more petite, leaner frame who don’t have enough fat for a BBL. These individuals should have realistic expectations about the outcome and be prepared for a longer recovery and higher complication rate compared to a butt lift.
Brazilian Butt Lift Surgery
Procedure Overview
Brazilian Butt Lift surgery is a popular butt enhancement procedure that utilizes the patient’s own body fat to augment and reshape the buttocks.
The procedure involves a two-step process: fat grafting and fat transfer. The first step, fat grafting, involves the removal of excess fat from other areas of the body through liposuction. Common areas for fat removal include the abdomen, hips, and thighs. The patients’ extracted fat cells are then purified and prepared for transfer.
The second step, fat transfer, involves the strategic injection of the purified fat cells into the buttocks. The expert plastic surgeon carefully injects the fat into different areas of the buttocks to achieve the desired shape and volume.
Benefits and Drawbacks
A Brazilian Butt Lift has a lower risk of complications and tends to produce more natural-looking and feeling results. However, after the procedure, the body may reabsorb too much fat, leading to less than desired results. Risks associated with BBL include excessive bleeding, infection, scarring, and asymmetry.
Ideal Candidates
Ideal candidates for a BBL are individuals with enough fatty tissue in other areas of their body for transfer. They should be in good health, have a stable weight to prevent future weight fluctuations affecting the results, and have realistic expectations about the outcome.
Key Differences Between Butt Implants and BBL
Surgical Approach
Buttock implant surgery involves the insertion of silicone implants, while BBL relies on a more natural approach by using the patient’s fat. This fundamental difference in surgical approach can significantly impact the recovery time, long-term results, and potential complications.
Recovery Time
The recovery time after butt implants is typically longer compared to BBL. After the implant procedure, patients are advised to avoid direct pressure on the buttocks and wear compression garments. After two to three weeks, patients can return to work using a pillow for sitting. However, it can take up to eight to ten weeks before patients can resume regular exercise unless complications arise.
The recovery process after a BBL is generally quicker. Patients can expect some discomfort and swelling, but these symptoms usually subside within a few weeks. It’s important to note that during the healing process, patients should avoid sitting or lying directly on their buttocks for about two weeks to prevent damage to the newly transferred fat cells.
Long-Term Results
The long-term results of both procedures can vary. Implants surgery creates a rounder, firmer, and more defined butt shape. However, complications such as implant shifting, capsular contracture, and implant rupture can affect the long-term aesthetic outcome.
On the other hand, BBL results tend to look and feel more natural. However, a significant factor to consider is that the body can reabsorb a portion of the transferred fat over time, which can affect the final results. It’s also essential to maintain a stable weight after BBL, as significant weight fluctuations can impact the results.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Butt Implants and BBL
Body Type and Existing Buttock Shape
Your body type and the existing shape of your buttocks play a crucial role in determining the best surgical procedure for you. For instance, people who are leaner and smaller in stature and do not have enough fat for a BBL may be better candidates for butt implants. Those with enough fat in other areas of their body for transfer might achieve better results with a BBL.
The Desired Outcome and Personal Preferences
Your desired outcome and personal preferences also matter. Butt implants may be the best option if you’d like your appearance to be firmer, fuller, and more defined. A BBL, however, might be a better choice if you prefer a more natural look and feel.
Health Considerations and Risks
Both procedures come with potential complications. Butt implant surgery has a higher rate of complications, including the risk of rejection, fluid collection, skin discoloration, and more. While BBL is generally considered safer, it still carries risks such as bleeding, infection, scarring, and asymmetry. It’s important to thoroughly discuss these risks with your surgeon before making a decision.
Choosing the Right Procedure for You
It’s imperative to select a highly skilled and experienced surgeon, such as a board-certified plastic surgeon, who has extensive experience in both butt implant surgery and the Brazilian Butt Lift. These complex procedures require not only precise technical expertise but also an artistic eye to achieve optimal results and ensure patient safety.
Conclusion
Discuss your aesthetic goals, personal preferences, and any concerns you may have with your surgeon. The surgeon will evaluate your body type, existing buttock shape, and skin elasticity to determine the most effective method for maximum butt augmentation.
If you’re considering butt implant surgery or a BBL procedure, consult with a double board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Gabriel Salloum at the Miami Center for Plastic Surgery. With his superior surgical skills and extensive experience with both procedures, Dr. Salloum can provide valuable insight and guidance to help you make the best decision for your body and aesthetic goals. Schedule a consultation by contacting us or calling 305-405-6910.