The Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) carries significant risks, which can range from minor complications to severe and life-threatening outcomes.
These risks stem from the complexity of the procedure, which involves transferring fat from one area of the body to the buttocks.
Although many patients experience satisfactory results, the BBL has been associated with a higher rate of complications compared to other cosmetic surgeries. Understanding these risks is important for anyone considering the procedure.
Why is the procedure risky?
The BBL is considered risky due to the nature of fat transfer and the anatomy of the buttocks. During the procedure, fat is injected into or around the gluteal muscles to create a fuller appearance. However, the buttocks contain large blood vessels, and improper fat placement can result in serious complications, such as fat embolisms, where fat enters the bloodstream and blocks critical blood flow to the heart or lungs. The complexity of the procedure requires a high level of skill, precision, and adherence to safety protocols, making the choice of surgeon a critical factor in mitigating risks.
Safety concerns
While the Brazilian Butt Lift is popular for its transformative results, patients must be aware of the potential safety concerns associated with the procedure.
Blockage in blood vessels
Fat embolism is one of the most severe risks of a BBL. If fat is injected too deeply into the gluteal muscles, it can enter the bloodstream and travel to the lungs or heart, leading to respiratory failure or cardiac arrest. This complication is life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention.
Haematoma
A haematoma occurs when blood pools outside the blood vessels, often as a result of surgical trauma. While small haematomas may resolve on their own, larger ones can cause pain, swelling, and prolonged recovery times. In some cases, surgical drainage is required.
Fat necrosis
Fat necrosis happens when the transferred fat cells fail to establish a blood supply, causing them to die. This can lead to lumps or hard areas under the skin, discomfort, and sometimes the need for further surgical intervention to remove the affected fat.
Blood clots
Blood clots, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), can develop after surgery, particularly if mobility is limited during recovery. If a clot travels to the lungs, it can cause a pulmonary embolism, a life-threatening condition requiring urgent treatment.
Infections
Infections are a risk with any surgery, including a BBL. Signs of infection may include fever, redness, and discharge from the incision sites. In severe cases, systemic infections like sepsis can occur, which require immediate hospitalisation and antibiotics.
Serious skin infection
Cellulitis or other skin infections can arise after surgery, especially if the wound care protocols are not followed. Severe skin infections can lead to tissue damage and require aggressive treatment, including surgical debridement.
Lumpy scars
Lumpy or uneven scarring may result from poor surgical techniques or complications during the healing process. These scars can affect the aesthetic results and may require revision surgery to improve their appearance.
Allergic reaction to anaesthetics
Some patients may have an allergic reaction to the anaesthetic used during the procedure. While rare, such reactions can range from mild symptoms like rash to severe anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening and requires emergency care.
Deaths following complications
Reports of deaths following BBL procedures, particularly among women who travelled to Turkey or other countries offering low-cost surgery, highlight the risks of choosing clinics with inadequate safety standards. In some cases, patients have undergone surgery with unqualified practitioners or in facilities lacking proper accreditation. These deaths often result from complications like fat embolisms or infections, exacerbated by poor post-operative care.
While cost may be a deciding factor for many, the price of travelling abroad for cheaper surgery can come at a high cost to health and safety. Choosing a reputable clinic with a proven track record of safety and expertise is critical to reducing these risks.
Find a trusted clinic
At Adoreal, we prioritise your safety and satisfaction. Our network of highly qualified surgeons and accredited clinics ensures that your Brazilian Butt Lift is performed with the utmost care and precision. We provide personalised consultations, state-of-the-art facilities, and comprehensive aftercare to support your journey from start to finish.