BBL Recovery Tips to Navigate the First Few Weeks After Surgery

One of the biggest issues with getting a Brazilian Butt Lift is the associated downtime and recovery process. Just like any other surgical procedure, the recovery period is crucial in guaranteeing the best results. While the surgery will only last an average of 2-3 hours based on the amount of liposuction required, there is a several week recovery period you should familiarize yourself with before surgery.

What to Expect During Your BBL Recovery?

The BBL is an outpatient procedure, and as such it will be performed under deep sedation or a light general anesthetic.  The incisions for the BBL are small, and the fat is injected in layers. Since not all the fat transplanted is reabsorbed into the body, surgeons will generally add more fat than the patient needs. After surgery, the patient will spend time in the recovery room. Although there may be some swelling and bruising, the final results will typically be noticeable in 6 to 8 weeks.

Activities to avoid

There are several activities patients are advised to avoid after a Brazilian Butt Lift so that they don’t affect the results negatively:

• Avoid sitting down on your butt for about three weeks
• Avoid sleeping on your back for three weeks
• Avoid strenuous physical activities and heavy lifting
• Avoid hot tubs, pools, and swimming for up to four weeks

Additional activities will be discussed in more details with your surgeon during your first consultation. Any activity that elevates blood pressure should be minimized during the first seven days of recovery to lower the risk of bleeding. Patients are also encouraged to take short walks and begin upper body exercise two weeks after surgery. For up to 6 to 8 weeks, it’s important to steer clear of contact sports, lifting heavy weights, and jogging.

Compression garment

Patients will wear a compression garment, usually included in Icon specials, for 3 to 4 weeks, 24 hours a day. The garment helps reduce swelling and bruising and encourages the skin to tighten up. Compression garments also help maintain the buttocks’ shape by adding some extra support to the newly injected tissue. Some patients may need two compression garments in the liposuction region. The outer garment is removed 10 minutes before the inner garment to reduce the possibility of dizziness or faintness.

Sitting after BBL

Patients aren’t allowed to sit or rest on their buttocks after a Brazilian Butt lift since direct pressure on the buttocks can kill the newly injected fat before it develops enough blood flow. They should rest on their stomachs or sides with pillows to prop themselves up. At two weeks of recovery, it’s ok to use a boppy pillow or a rolled-up towel under the knees to sit and sleep in a more comfortable position.

Fluid discharge

There may be some fluid discharge from the incisions for several days, which is quite normal. The more fluid leaves the site, the less bruising you will experience. Patients are advised to sit on a towel or plastic covering to avoid leakages on the furniture. Keep your skin moisture by applying lotion to the treatment areas daily – it can also help relieve dry, itchy skin.

Taking Flights after BBL

Taking flights after a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) requires careful consideration. It’s generally recommended to avoid flying for at least 1 to 2 weeks after surgery. This allows time for initial recovery and reduces the risk of complications. Make sure to wear your compression garments as advised by your surgeon. These help reduce swelling and support healing.

Air travel can exacerbate swelling due to changes in cabin pressure and prolonged sitting. Try to move around periodically to improve circulation and prevent blood clots. Follow any specific recommendations your surgeon provides regarding mobility and in-flight exercises.

We are here for you

If you’d like to discuss your BBL with one of our experienced surgeons, call us today and schedule a free and confidential BBL evaluation online or on the phone. Icon Cometic Center surgeons will help you create an individualized treatment plan that addresses your goals.