It may not be the first surgical procedure that springs to mind when we think of cosmetic surgery, but the Brazilian Butt Lift continues its steady progression up the popularity ranks. In fact, according to a recent survey by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, demand for this procedure has risen globally by 77.6% since 2015 – making it the fastest growing cosmetic surgical procedure in the world.

So, what’s behind the Brazilian Butt Lift and are there any adverse risks when undergoing this procedure? Firstly, a Brazilian Butt Lift contours and reshapes the buttocks. Providing natural enhancement and gifting more shape and definition to surrounding areas. The first step of the procedure involves a cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon removing excess skin and fat from around the buttocks, waist and hips via liposuction. To increase the projection, shape and size of the buttocks, fat is then reinjected via small incisions which are made at the crease of the buttocks and upper thighs, or just below the waistline. For additional volume boost and contour, the surgeon will engage fat grafting – liposuctioning fat and tissue from another area of the body i.e., the thighs, abdomen or back – and then inject the processed fat and tissue into the butt via small incisions.

As with any invasive cosmetic surgery procedure, ensuring you are healthy, fit and prepared to undertake preparation and post-surgery recovery steps is essential to achieving best results and smoother recovery journey. Typically, surgery will be three-to-four in length, and performed under general anesthetic, with a recovery time of approximately six weeks.

Brazilian Butt Lift surgery isn’t without its risks. In fact, complications arising from a Brazilian Butt Lift procedure can range from bacterial infections, tissue necrosis – or dying off, abscesses and in extreme cases death, which can occur via accidental fat injection into large veins occur, which then travels to the lungs, heart or brain.

Safety guidelines and a Task Force for Safety in Gluteal Fat Grafting, have been put in place by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the International Society of Aesthetic Surgery to ensure surgeons are aware of key procedure recommendations, including surgeons stop injecting into the muscle and use bigger instruments.

And, as for anyone seeking Brazilian Butt Lift surgery, fact checking and doing your research before signing up to surgery is essential. Putting yourself in the hands of a qualified cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgeon, who has undertaken the formal training to successfully and safely carry out the procedure – not just any doctor or surgeon.

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