BBL: The Dangerous Truth Behind Brazilian Butt Lift

The Brazilian Butt Lift, widely known as BBL has taken the cosmetic surgery world by storm, capturing the imagination of women across Africa, America, and Europe.

Driven by societal pressures to conform to idealised body standards in our digital age, countless women are opting for this procedure to achieve a curvier shape. Despite its allure, the BBL is not without its dangers, a reality that seems to be largely ignored by many.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the BBL was the fifth most popular cosmetic surgery in 2020, with over 20,000 procedures performed. This is a significant increase from just 500 in 2005.

In the U.S., the BBL is considered the most dangerous cosmetic surgery. Despite numerous warnings to make it safer, the death rate is rising. This is particularly true in South Florida, a hotspot for this surgery.

In this article, we’ll briefly cover the following areas:

• What is a Brazilian Butt Lift?

• The Procedure: Step-by-Step

• The Risks and Complications of BBL

• BBL in Nigeria

• BBL in the United States

• How to Minimize Risks

What is a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)?

The Brazilian Butt Lift, or BBL, has become one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures in recent years. Originating from Brazil, this procedure was developed by renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Ivo Pitanguy.

BBL involves transferring fat from areas like the belly, hips, lower back, or thighs to the buttocks to enhance volume and create a more pronounced hourglass figure. Unlike a traditional “lift,” the BBL focuses on increasing the size of the buttocks rather than raising them.

The BBL process includes two main stages: liposuction to remove excess fat and fat grafting to inject the purified fat into the buttocks.

Some individuals, known as “skinny BBL” candidates, may need to gain weight or use fat from other parts of their body if they lack sufficient fat for the procedure.

The Procedure: Step-by-Step

Anesthesia: To ensure you are comfortable and pain-free, anesthesia is administered.

Liposuction: A thin metal hose, or cannula, is inserted through small incisions in the body’s fat deposits. The fat is then suctioned out.

Purification: The extracted fat is purified to remove excess fluids.

Fat Injection: The purified fat is injected into the buttocks through small incisions, primarily focusing on the upper part.

Recovery: The incisions are stitched up, and a compression band is applied to reduce bleeding and support recovery.

The Risks and Complications of BBL

Despite its growing popularity, the BBL is considered one of the most dangerous cosmetic procedures. Risks include:

Fat Embolism: When fat enters the bloodstream, it can travel to the heart or lungs, potentially causing fatal complications.

Infection: Post-surgery infections are possible.

Skin Changes: Patients may experience numbness, loose skin, bruising, swelling, and discoloration.

Scarring: Visible scars can occur at the incision sites.

Recent data indicate that the mortality rate for BBL procedures is significantly higher compared to other cosmetic surgeries, with some reports suggesting one death for every 3,000 procedures. Efforts to improve safety have included recommendations to inject fat above the gluteal muscle to prevent it from entering blood vessels.

BBL in Nigeria

In Nigeria, the allure of a curvier figure has driven many women, particularly celebrities, to spend millions on BBL procedures, sometimes with tragic outcomes. In 2023, a 23-year-old woman died just four days after undergoing the surgery.

Celebrities like Tonto Dikeh, Blessing Okoro, Toke Makinwa, and others have openly admitted to having BBL surgery, which has fueled its popularity among young Nigerian women. However, medical experts warn about the procedure’s dangers, emphasising that many do not fully understand the risks involved before undertaking the procedure.

Dr. David Egbeogu, a Lagos-based plastic surgeon, highlights that fat embolism is one of the worst complications of BBL. “The procedure’s outcome depends significantly on the placement and quantity of injected fat. If done incorrectly, it can lead to severe complications, including fat entering the bloodstream,” he explains.

ALSO READ: Personal Branding is the New Get-Rich-Quick: 10 Ways to Do it Right

BBL in the United States

In the United States, particularly in Miami, BBL procedures are prevalent due to high-volume, low-cost clinics. Despite publicised deaths and regulatory changes aimed at improving safety, complications continue to occur.

Dr. Pat Pazmiño of Miami Aesthetic reports that the influx of patients to Florida has led to many severe complications and deaths nationwide. Recent research into BBL fatalities, particularly in South Florida, reveals a troubling pattern of fat embolism-related deaths.

How to Minimise Risks

To reduce the risks associated with BBL surgery, consider the following precautions:

Research Your Surgeon: Choose a certified and experienced surgeon with a track record of successful BBL procedures.

Verify the Facility: Ensure the surgery takes place at an accredited center or hospital.

Review Before-and-After Photos: Examine the surgeon’s previous work to assess their skill and outcomes.

Conclusion

BBL has surged in popularity over the past two decades, with an 800% increase in procedures from 2011 to 2021. While the desire for a curvier figure drives many to undergo this procedure, it is crucial to be aware of its inherent risks.

Thorough research and careful consideration of the potential complications can help ensure a safer experience for those seeking this dramatic transformation.