What is Brazilian Butt Lift?
The Brazilian Butt Lift is a cosmetic surgery that enhances and reshapes the buttocks using the patient’s own body fat. In this procedure, fat is removed from different areas of the patient’s body, treated, and then injected into the buttocks to achieve a rounder, fuller, and more lifted appearance.
In recent years, the demand for tighter and fuller buttocks has risen dramatically— especially as intense exercise alone often cannot produce the same results as modern cosmetic procedures.
If you’re not satisfied with the appearance of your buttocks and wish to achieve a fuller, more youthful look, the Brazilian Butt Lift may be the ideal solution — especially since it is safer and more natural compared to silicone implants.
Brazilian Butt Lift vs. Silicone Implants: Which Should You Choose?
When deciding how to enhance the buttocks, many patients are torn between a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) and silicone implants. So, which is the better option? In most cases, the BBL is considered the safer and more natural route. It uses your own body fat, which greatly reduces the risk of infection, rejection, or complications related to foreign materials. The results also tend to look and feel more natural.
Silicone implants, on the other hand, are synthetic devices inserted into the body — and while they may be an option for patients with very low body fat, they carry higher risks and can sometimes cause long-term discomfort or aesthetic concerns.
Another major reason many patients prefer the BBL is that it offers a dual benefit: it not only enhances the buttocks but also slims down areas like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks through liposuction. It’s a “two birds with one stone” solution that sculpts the overall figure.
As always, it’s essential to consult with a board-certified surgeon like Dr. Cengizhan Ekizceli to understand the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that best suits your body and goals.
Where exactly is the fat taken from?
During a Brazilian Butt Lift, fat is typically harvested through liposuction from areas where it tends to accumulate — such as the abdomen, flanks (love handles), lower back, thighs, and arms. These regions are strategically chosen not just because they contain sufficient fat, but also because removing fat from them helps sculpt the body and enhance the final silhouette. For example, taking fat from the waist and lower back can create a more defined hourglass shape, making the buttocks appear even more lifted and contoured. The choice of donor areas depends on the patient’s body type and fat distribution, and Dr. Cengizhan Ekizceli carefully evaluates each case to ensure the most aesthetic, balanced outcome.
Additionally, the Brazilian Butt Lift can be performed alongside other procedures such as a mommy makeover, tummy tuck, or thigh lift. These combinations are carefully planned with Dr. Cengizhan Ekizceli to ensure the most appropriate approach and help you achieve your desired results.
Who is a good candidate for Brazilian Butt Lift?
To answer that question, it’s important to consider your Body Mass Index (BMI). If your BMI is too high — specifically above 32 — the surgery cannot be performed, as liposuction is a key part of the Brazilian Butt Lift procedure.
Who should NOT get a BBL?
Generally, smokers who are unwilling to quit cannot undergo any type of surgery, including a Brazilian Butt Lift. Another group of people who cannot undergo a BBL are those with minimal fat or poor skin elasticity. This is because a BBL requires sufficient fat to harvest for transfer, and without enough fat, it is impossible to achieve the desired volume and shape. In other words, if the patient is very thin, there may not be enough body fat available to shape and enhance the buttocks. For this reason, the patient’s weight should fall within the ideal BMI range to ensure a successful outcome. Additionally, poor skin elasticity can prevent the skin from tightening properly after fat removal and transfer, leading to sagging or uneven results.
How is a Brazilian butt lift performed?
Dr. Cengizhan Ekizceli performs the Brazilian Butt Lift procedure under general anaesthesia. It takes about 3 hours.
Using liposuction, fat is transferred from different areas of the body such as the abdomen or thigh, then re-injected into the buttocks after purification through small incisions so as not to cause any scars after healing. Liposuction is usually done in quantities that exceed the required amount by three times.
After suturing the wounds, gauze is placed on them and a compression garment is applied to the area to reduce swelling and bleeding.
Importance of Post-Op Garments and Compression
After the surgery, it is compulsory for the patient to wear a compression garment as part of their recovery. This helps reduce swelling, contour the body, and minimize fluid buildup. Patients must wear it consistently for 6–8 weeks and ensure it is cleaned regularly.
Washing it gently by hand or on a delicate cycle using cold water and mild detergent should do the trick. Always let the garment air dry completely before wearing it again. It is recommended that the patient purchase two garments so they can alternate between them when one is being washed.
An extra tip to ensure your comfort: choose a garment that fits snugly but doesn’t dig into your skin. It should offer firm support without restricting your movement.
What should you avoid after a BBL?
After a Brazilian Butt Lift, there are a few important things patients must avoid to ensure proper healing and long-lasting results. First and foremost, avoid sitting directly on your buttocks for at least three weeks. Doing so can damage the newly transferred fat and affect the final shape. Instead, use a special pillow or cushion when sitting is necessary, and sleep on your stomach or sides. Avoid smoking, as it restricts blood flow and reduces fat survival. Patients should also stay away from intense exercise, especially activities that put pressure on the lower body, until cleared by their surgeon. Wearing tight or restrictive clothing is also discouraged, as it can interfere with circulation and healing. Following these guidelines closely is key to protecting your results and minimising the risk of complications.
Understanding the BBL Results Timeline
The results of a Brazilian Butt Lift are visible immediately after surgery; however, the final outcome becomes clear around six months later. Initially, the buttocks may appear larger than expected because a slightly greater amount of fat is injected. That is no cause for concern as some of it will naturally be absorbed by the body over time. Once this process is complete, the remaining fat establishes itself permanently, revealing the final, lasting shape.
How much fat survives after a BBL?
Not all of the fat transferred during a Brazilian Butt Lift will survive. On average, about 60–70% of the injected fat becomes permanently established in the buttocks, while the rest is naturally absorbed by the body within the first few months. This is why surgeons often inject slightly more fat than needed to account for this loss. To maximize fat survival, it’s essential to avoid putting pressure on the area, wear your compression garment as directed, eat a healthy, high-calorie diet rich in nutrients, and stay well-hydrated. Smoking, intense physical activity too early, and rapid weight loss can all reduce the amount of fat that survives. By carefully following post-operative instructions, patients can help ensure the best possible outcome.
What are the risks and possible complications of a Brazilian Butt Lift?
Although the Brazilian Butt Lift is generally safe when performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon like Dr. Cengizhan Ekizceli, it is still a surgical procedure — and, as with any surgery, there are potential risks and complications to be aware of.
The most serious complication is a fat embolism, which occurs when fat accidentally enters the bloodstream and blocks a blood vessel. While this is extremely rare, it can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. This is why choosing a skilled, board-certified surgeon who understands the correct techniques is crucial.
Other possible risks include infection, bruising, bleeding, fluid accumulation (seroma), asymmetry, and fat necrosis (when some of the transferred fat does not survive). In some cases, patients may require a revision procedure to adjust the shape or volume.
Following your surgeon’s pre- and post-operative instructions carefully, attending all follow-up appointments, and maintaining a stable weight are important steps to reduce your risk and ensure the best possible outcome.
How long does the patient have to wait to return to normal life?
One month after the operation, patients can return to work, wear their regular clothes comfortably, and resume exercise. Physical activity does not negatively affect the results of a Brazilian Butt Lift — in fact, it can have positive effects. We also encourage light walking and regular physical activity during recovery to support healing and maintain results.
Can you gain the weight back after Brazilian Butt Lift?
After a Brazilian Butt Lift, patients may still gain or lose weight. Since the transferred fat is natural and taken from the patient’s own body, it behaves like any other fat — meaning it can increase in size with weight gain or decrease with weight loss.
