What to expect after a Brazilian Butt Lift and how to ensure the best results
More than 21,800 Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL) were performed in the U.S. in 2020 according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. And the popularity of the buttock liposuction and BBL fat transfer procedure—which involves transferring fat from one area of the body into the buttocks and hips for a fuller, curvier silhouette—shows no signs of slowing down.
The final outcome of BBL lipo and how quickly you’ll see results depends on individual factors (like genetics and fitness level) as well as the plastic surgery practice’s approach to both the surgery and aftercare.
At Squlpt, we offer two BBL lipo options: Petite BBL and XL BBL. Both are performed awake using our patented SoftSqulpt technology—a safer, gentler approach to body shaping that involves no general anesthesia, is close to pain-free, and sets you up for a fast and seamless recovery. We’ll also provide you with a detailed SoftHealing guide, and you can count on the support of our aftercare team at every step of your recovery.
Below, we break down what to expect after your BBL surgery week by week, along with aftercare tips, to help speed up your healing and achieve flawless results you’ll love.
BBL recovery timeline
Here’s what to expect in the weeks following your SoftSqulpt Petite BBL or XL BBL treatment.
Week 1
You can expect to feel sore after your awake BBL and lipo treatment, like you worked out extra hard at the gym. You’ll also have some light bruising and swelling. But thanks to our gentle approach, with no general anesthesia, you can go home the same day and be back at work within the week. We’ll fit you with a personalized compression garment as well as a special BBL pillow for sitting.
Weeks 2-6
Typically, most discomfort will resolve within five to seven days. You will still experience some swelling and potential numbing around the treatment areas. After four weeks, you can get back to your regular routine, including strenuous exercise.
Week 6
By week six, most patients will have fully recovered, although there may be some residual swelling. This is when you’ll start to see the final results of your BBL as the fat grafts will have settled, and the bottom and liposuctioned areas will appear more contoured.
BBL recovery tips
Follow these tips for a seamless recovery and stunning results that last.
Wear your compression garment
We’ll fit you with a personalized compression garment before your treatment. Make sure you wear it at all times for the first two weeks, only taking it off to shower. Because compression garments are tight and apply pressure, they help protect the incisions, improve circulation, minimize discomfort and swelling, and further contour the body.
Nourish your body
It’s important to consume enough calories (at least 2,000 a day) and nutrient-rich foods to fuel your immune system while healing. We recommend a low carb, high protein diet with lots of fruits and vegetables. Staying hydrated is also a must to avoid any post-surgical complications.
Get moving
The stronger your body is pre-surgery, the smoother your recovery will be. After your lipo and BBL treatment, it’s important to listen to your body and adjust your fitness routine as needed. The day of your procedure, you can start with gentle exercise, like walking, for 20-30 minutes at a time, and build up slowly from there. The goal is to keep your body moving without over-exerting yourself. By week four, you can get back to your regular exercise routine.
Avoid cigarettes and alcohol
To qualify for BBL surgery, you need to have healthy blood flow. That means you should avoid smoking four weeks before and after your awake BBL treatment. Nicotine constricts blood vessels and shuts down blood flow, which can lead to complications and prolong your recovery. You should also avoid alcohol for four weeks after your treatment.
Keep in mind that every body, and therefore every healing journey, is different. When you book your awake BBL consultation, a Squlpt plastic surgeon and body consultant will walk you through what to expect and develop a treatment and recovery plan that is unique to you.
Ready to embrace the best version of yourself and the body confidence you deserve? Book a consultation today.
Check out this video showing how the Squlpt BBL recovery pillow works!
