More and more people are exploring ways to enhance the shape and size of their rears, with surgeries for rear enhancement procedures seeing an increase of about 20% between 2015 and 2016.
Two popular options for buttock augmentation are the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) and butt implants. But how do you choose between them?
This article will compare BBL and butt implant procedures so that you can make an informed decision about what’s right for you. When it comes to cosmetic surgery, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option before deciding on a procedure.
Understanding the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
The Brazilian butt lift, or BBL, is a fat transfer procedure. That means fat is removed via liposuction from one or more areas of your body, purified, and then injected into your buttocks to make them larger or give them a more pleasing shape.
A BBL offers a dual benefit: It enhances your butt and contours the area where the fat was taken from. Liposuction can remove unwanted fat from your abdomen, thighs, or flanks, giving you a slimmer silhouette.
Who is a good candidate for a BBL?
You’re likely a good candidate for a BBL if you:
- Have enough fat in other areas of your body that can be harvested for the procedure
- Are between the ages of 18 and 54
As with any surgery, you should be in generally good health and have realistic expectations for the outcome.
What happens during a BBL?
The procedure typically takes between 3.5 and 5 hours, and you’ll be under anesthesia. The incisions used for liposuction and fat transfer are relatively small.
Understanding Butt Implants
Butt implants are solid silicone forms that a surgeon places into the buttock muscle to give the area more volume and shape.
Implants can offer a predictable augmentation, and they’re often a good option for people who don’t have much fat to transfer to their rear end. Implants can also be suitable for a wider range of body types.
Who is a good candidate for butt implants?
If you’re considering butt implants, you’ll want to know if you’re a good candidate for this type of surgery.
Implants may be a good option if you don’t have a lot of fat stores available for a fat transfer procedure, or if you know exactly how much bigger you want your butt to be. Because implants come in specific sizes, you can work with your surgeon to choose the size that will give you the look you want.
What happens during a butt implant procedure?
During a butt implant procedure, which usually takes two to four hours, you’ll be under general anesthesia. Your surgeon will make an incision and insert the implant into a pocket created in the gluteal muscle.
Butt implant procedures tend to require larger incisions than a BBL.
BBL vs. Butt Implants: Key Differences
While both Brazilian butt lifts and butt implants can augment the size and shape of your rear, there are some key differences between the two procedures.
Source of Volume
A BBL uses your own fat, harvested via liposuction from another part of your body, such as your abdomen or thighs. Butt implants, on the other hand, use silicone implants to add volume.
Incisions and Scarring
Because a BBL uses liposuction, the incisions are small and typically result in minimal scarring. Butt implants require larger incisions, generally in the gluteal crease, which can lead to more noticeable scarring.
Risks and Complications
A BBL comes with risks, including fat reabsorption (meaning your body metabolizes some of the injected fat), asymmetry (unevenness in size or shape), and the potential need for touch-up procedures to achieve the desired result. Butt implant risks can include implant rejection, capsular contracture (scar tissue forming around the implant), malposition or shifting of the implant, and unfavorable scarring. Both types of surgery also carry the risk of non-healing, fluid buildup, infection, and sagging over time.
Recovery Time
Recovery time is fairly similar for both procedures, averaging around 2 to 3 weeks. However, because BBL incisions are smaller, the initial recovery may be a bit faster. Butt implant recovery tends to be longer and more involved due to the more invasive nature of the surgery.
BBL vs. Butt Implants: What Do They Have in Common?
While a BBL and butt implants are very different procedures, they share some similarities:
- Both are designed to make your butt bigger and shapelier.
- Both can be tailored to your specific desires and body type. You can work with your surgeon to achieve the look you want.
- Both require downtime. You’ll need to take time off from work and other activities to recover properly.
- Both can offer lasting results. A BBL can last for many years if you maintain a stable weight. Butt implants typically last for 10-15 years, but you may need to have them replaced or revised at some point.
Butt Implant vs. BBL: How to Choose
Deciding between a butt implant and a BBL is a big decision. Here are some things to consider:
- Do you have enough fat? A BBL requires you to have enough fat for the surgeon to harvest. If you’re very lean, a BBL might not be an option.
- How big do you want to go? Implants offer a more predictable and potentially larger increase in volume. You can choose the size and shape of the implant.
- What’s your risk tolerance? Every surgery has risks. Be sure to weigh the risks and possible complications of each procedure with your doctor.
- What kind of look do you want? Do you want a more natural or a more dramatic look? Implants may have a less natural feel than a BBL.
Talk to a qualified surgeon about your goals and concerns. They can help you decide which procedure is right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do butt implants last?
Butt implants aren’t designed to last forever. While some people have them for many years without issue, they often need to be replaced or removed eventually. Factors like implant type, placement, and individual anatomy all play a role in their longevity. It’s a good idea to discuss the long-term maintenance with your surgeon.
Do the Kardashians have butt implants?
That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? The Kardashians have publicly denied having butt implants. They’ve attributed their curves to genetics and, of course, strategic posing and shapewear. Ultimately, it’s up to each person to decide what they believe, but there’s no confirmed evidence of implants.
What is the safest buttock enhancement?
There’s no completely risk-free surgery, but generally, BBLs have more potential complications than butt implants. However, the “safest” option depends on the individual. A BBL using your own fat is often considered safer than injecting foreign substances. Also, a smaller increase in size is generally safer than a very large one. Choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon is crucial for minimizing risks, no matter which procedure you choose.
Summary
As you’ve learned, the main differences between a BBL and butt implants are that one uses your own fat to augment your buttocks, while the other relies on silicone implants. Each procedure has its own advantages and disadvantages.
If you’re considering either procedure, be sure to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Choosing the right surgeon is key. Look into the surgeon’s experience and training, and be sure to review before-and-after photos of their patients.
Ultimately, the decision to get a BBL or butt implants is a personal one. Weigh the pros and cons of each procedure carefully before you make a choice.