BBL Aftercare Tips: How Long Does a BBL Take to Heal?

The Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a popular cosmetic procedure celebrated for its transformative results, often influenced by celebrity endorsements on social media.

However, despite its popularity, it's essential to recognize that BBLs have inherent risks that make aftercare a critical aspect of the overall procedure. The danger lies in the potential complications associated with fat embolism, where fat particles can enter the bloodstream and pose serious health risks. To navigate the post-BBL phase safely, individuals must prioritize comprehensive aftercare. By emphasizing BBL post-op care, individuals can enhance safety, minimize risks, and increase the likelihood of achieving long-lasting and satisfying results. 

In this article, you can learn about the BBL recovery process and the useful tips that help you get the most long-lasting BBL results.

What is BBL, and How Long Will Its Results Last?

Brazilian Butt Lift, or BBL, is a popular cosmetic surgery for the buttocks. It uses liposuction to transfer fat from some body areas to the butts, making them rounder and well-portioned. 

BBL results last long, depending on how you do your BBL aftercare during the recovery period. However, the recovery timeline may not be the same for everyone. Age, health, and medical history can affect BBL recovery.

BBL Aftercare: A Week-by-Week Timeline and Tips

Immediately after surgery

Immediately after BBL, you will experience some soreness, bruising, and swelling in the areas where the fat was removed. You can ask your plastic surgeon to prescribe medications to reduce the pain. Having a friend or family member drive you home and care for you for the first few days. Try to take short walks to reduce the swelling. 

Week 1-3

During weeks 1 to 2 after BBL, wear a special compression garment and avoid wearing tight clothes. The compression garment helps to treat the fat grafting areas. Avoid sitting, and try to use a pillow or donut to keep pressure off your butt. Sitting directly on the newly transferred fat cells may move the cells and even change your buttock's shape.

You also should go for a follow-up visit and let your surgeon review your health status. During week one after BBL, lymphatic massages are also helpful to accelerate healing and treat scar tissues.

Week 4-5

During weeks four to five after BBL, you can return to your routine activities, but you should avoid lifting heavy weights. You may still feel a slight discomfort. However, if serious pain continues, call your surgeon immediately.

Week Six

Most patients do not feel discomfort or pain at week six after BBL. You can return to most of your normal activities, including sitting comfortably. The results of BBL and liposuction are visible at this point. Lower body exercise is also allowed with your surgeon's permission.

After Week Six 

There are some general BBL aftercare tips to enhance the recovery and results from week six:

• Keep your weight constant;
• Avoid smoking for at least two months;
• Follow a nutritious diet, and drink plenty of water.

How to Prevent Dents After BBL?

To prevent dents after Brazilian butt surgery, you should avoid activities that put pressure on the fragile fat cells in your new butt. You also should wear your compression garment even while sleeping.

 The activities to avoid include:

• sitting down;
• stretching or squatting;
• sleeping on your back;
• smoking.

What to Eat After a BBL?

After a BBL, it's crucial to follow the advice of healthcare professionals and feed the fat after BBL by adhering to a specialized post-operative diet to support optimal recovery and enhance the results. The healthy meals that are usually helpful for patients to heal fast after Brazilian butt lift surgery include fruits, vegetables, nuts, lean protein, good fats, dairy, and milk. You should avoid junk food, high-fat foods, sugar, and foods with low nutritional content. Also, remember to drink plenty of water.

How to Sit After a BBL Surgery?

It is better to avoid sitting for at least two weeks. However, when you want to sit after surgery, you can put a pillow on the upper thighs and below the buttocks to keep pressure off the buttocks.

Read more: When Can I Sit on My Buttocks After BBL Surgery?

How to Sleep After BBL?

Having enough rest after BBl surgery is an essential factor in the healing process, but the way of sleeping is an important concern for those who have had a BBL operation. Because the way of sleeping, like sitting, may affect the surgery result. Staying off your buttocks from sitting or lying down for up to six weeks is recommended. This allows the fat to graft to the buttocks correctly.

Sleeping on your back too soon increases the absorption of fat cells, which means you will have less desirable results. Surgeons advise patients to keep some supportive pillows for themselves in case they need to be more comfortable and have a better position by putting them in their back and thighs. In that case, pressure will be relieved from the buttocks surgery area.

In general, sleeping on your stomach is the best way to sleep after this operation because there is no pressure on the operation area. You can use medical pillows under your stomach to sleep more comfortably. Also, please pay attention to avoid sleeping on your side during the recovery period after the operation so that it does not have a negative effect on the result of the operation.

What To Wear After BBL Surgery?

After undergoing a Brazilian Butt Lift surgery, it's essential to wear clothing that minimizes pressure on the buttocks and provides comfort during the recovery period. Here are some general recommendations:

• Compression Garments: Your surgeon will likely provide you with a compression garment to wear. This helps reduce swelling, supports the newly transferred fat, and promotes proper healing. It is advised to follow your surgeon's instructions on how long to wear the compression garment each day.
• Avoid Tight Waistbands: Steer clear of tight belts or waistbands that could press against the lower back or hips. This helps prevent unnecessary pressure on the surgical areas.
• Button-Up or Zip-Up Tops: To minimize movement and strain, choose tops that are easy to put on and take off without having to pull them over your head.
• Non-Slip Footwear: After surgery, you may need to avoid bending over or putting strain on your buttocks. Slip-on shoes or sandals can be more convenient during the initial recovery phase.

Fluffing After BBL

Fluffing in the context of a Brazilian Butt Lift refers to the natural settling and redistribution of fat in the buttocks following the surgical procedure. After a BBL, the initially augmented buttocks may appear higher or fuller immediately after surgery due to swelling and the placement of fat grafts.

 As the healing process progresses, some of the initial fullness diminishes, and the buttocks undergo a "fluffing" phase. During this period, the transplanted fat cells integrate with the existing tissues, and the swelling gradually subsides. This can lead to a more natural and softened appearance as the buttocks settle into their final shape.

 Fluffing is a normal part of the BBL recovery process, and patients should be patient as their results evolve. It's essential to follow post-operative care instructions, avoid pressure on the buttocks, and allow the body to heal for the best and most natural-looking outcome.

Final Results

The final results of a Brazilian Butt Lift become more evident as the body undergoes the natural healing process. Initially, there may be swelling and a high sitting position of the buttocks due to the surgical procedure. However, the swelling gradually subsides over the first few weeks and months post-surgery, and the transplanted fat cells integrate with the existing tissues. The process of "fluffing" occurs as the buttocks settle into their final shape, achieving a more natural and softened appearance. 

While some improvements may be noticeable soon after the procedure, the full and final results typically become apparent around three to six months after surgery. Patients are advised to be patient and follow post-operative care instructions carefully to optimize the healing process and ensure the longevity of the desired outcome. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon can help track progress and address any concerns throughout recovery.

Brazilian Butt Lift in Iran

Iran is one of the best countries in cosmetic surgery due to its high-equipped hospitals and experienced surgeons. Having BBL in Iran boosts your self-esteem and attractiveness and helps you save on a budget. The cost is $1800 to $2500 is less than 200 to 400 percent of the price of Brazilian butt lifts in other countries like USA, Germany, and Istanbul. If you decide to have a Brazilian Butt Lift in Iran, you can have a free consultation with our team at Raadina Health.

Raadina experts are always ready to answer questions about Brazilian butt lift surgery in Iran. In Raadina, we help you apply for a medical visa, book accommodations at reasonable prices, book appointments with the best Iranian plastic surgeons, arrange all kinds of transportation, and much more.

FAQs About BBl Recovery

1) What is the Typical Duration for BBL Recovery?

A complete recovery from a Brazilian buttock lift usually spans between two to three months, although the timeline for BBL recovery differs from one individual to another. The initial week of the recovery phase tends to be the most challenging for most patients. During this period, the intensity of pain and discomfort is at its peak, necessitating a significant focus on rest. Individuals typically encounter reduced pain levels over the following four to six weeks of recovery.

2) How Intense is the Level of Discomfort During BBL Recovery?

The pain experienced during the recovery from a BBL is commonly similar to that of other liposuction procedures. While the pain is not typically severe, it can be notably uncomfortable, particularly around the incision and injection sites. Many individuals undergoing BBL often describe the discomfort in these regions as akin to muscular soreness, with the highest intensity usually occurring during the initial week of BBL recovery. 

3) How long should I wear compression garments after a BBL?

Compression garments should be worn consistently for the first few weeks after surgery to reduce swelling and provide support. Your surgeon will provide specific guidelines based on your case.

4) How long does it take for the final results of a BBL to become noticeable?

While some results may be visible immediately, it can take several months for the swelling to subside fully and the results to become apparent. Patience is key during the recovery process. Furthermore, as the body recovers, only about sixty percent of the transferred fat cells remain in the butt, with the remainder being reabsorbed and flushed away. Therefore, it is perfectly typical to discover near the end of your BBL recovery period that your new butt is slightly smaller than you initially anticipated.

5) Can I shower immediately after a BBL?

Light showers are usually allowed shortly after the surgery. However, hot tubs and baths should be avoided until your surgeon gives the green light.

6) How long should I avoid sun exposure after a BBL?

Sun exposure can worsen scarring, so avoiding direct sunlight on the treated areas for several weeks is advisable. If sun exposure is unavoidable, use sunscreen as recommended by your surgeon.

7) Can I fly or travel shortly after a BBL?

Your surgeon will guide you on when it's safe to travel. Avoiding long flights or extended periods of immobility during the initial recovery phase is advisable to reduce the risk of blood clots.

8) Can I undergo additional cosmetic procedures while recovering from a Brazilian butt lift?

It's generally recommended to wait until you fully recover from the BBL before considering additional procedures. Consult with your surgeon to discuss the timing of any future cosmetic enhancements.

9) How long after a BBL can I work out? Can I engage in light stretching or yoga during the recovery period?

It is advisable to wait at least six to eight weeks before engaging in strenuous physical activities, including intense workouts. Gentle stretching may be beneficial, but consult with your surgeon before exercising. Avoid activities that put direct pressure on the buttocks or strain the treated areas.

10) What should I do if I notice asymmetry in the buttock area during recovery?

Mild asymmetry is not uncommon during the initial stages of recovery. However, consult your surgeon to ensure proper evaluation and guidance if you notice significant or persistent irregularities.