BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift) is the fastest growing surgery in the UK that enhances the butt by injecting fat grafts that have been extracted through liposuction. It’s a costly procedure that is sought after for the natural contouring effects it provides. But, after the surgeon performs the surgery, it’s down to you to ensure that you get the results you were expecting by following the aftercare instructions that your surgeon provides.
Once the fat grafts have been injected into your butt, 30-50% of it will be absorbed by your body. Of course, your surgeon accounts for this loss when deciding the amount of fat to inject to produce your desired enhancement. Yet, without the proper aftercare, you could risk losing even more of your fat grafts and disrupting the contouring effects of the surgery. This article will lay out the five most important steps that you should follow after your BBL to prevent this from happening and reduce post-surgical discomfort.
1. Avoid Putting Pressure on Your Butt
As much as possible, you should avoid sitting down for at least three weeks after your surgery to avoid damaging the fat grafts. Of course, you will need to make an exception when using the toilet. However, otherwise, you should do so on your stomach or on your side when resting and sleeping. After three weeks, your surgeon may recommend that you use a soft pillow when sitting down to reduce the pressure on your butt. However, most patients can sit, drive, and resume their normal routine after four weeks.
2. Eat a Nutritious Diet
Diet is an important factor that determines the final outcome of your surgery. You must eat enough nutrient-dense calories to sustain the fat grafts until they integrate into your blood supply. Many surgeons recommend eating at least 2000 calories per day that are low in carbs and high in protein, minerals, and healthy fats. For example, your diet may contain fish, meat, eggs, avocados, fruits, vegetables, nuts, among a range of other nutritious foods. In addition, you should drink plenty of water to avoid blood clots and other post-surgical complications.
3. Wear a Compression Garment
After the surgery, you will be given a compression garment that’s designed to fit your body tightly. The compression garment will cover the butt and the areas where you had liposuction. You should wear this garment for at least six weeks after surgery as it both contours the body and makes the recovery process more comfortable by reducing pain and swelling, improving your circulation, and protecting your incisions from infection. For best results, you should wear the garment at all times except when showering.
4. Get Lymphatic Massages
Lymphatic drainage massages are a form of massage that helps prevent or reduce the build-up of lymphatic fluid in the body. The fluid in the lymphatic system carries wastes and toxins out of the body. However, BBL and other invasive surgeries temporarily disrupt the lymphatic system, which leads to the fluid building up in the treated areas, thus leading to swelling. Many surgeons recommend getting around three massages if possible, as it can speed up your recovery process. Furthermore, gently massaging your tissue and muscles can also reduce the depth of scarring that may develop after surgery.
5. Avoid Strenuous Activities
Another measure to preserve your fat grafts, minimize swelling, protect your incisions, and avoid post-surgical complications is to avoid strenuous activities for at least four weeks after the surgery. In the meantime, you should stick to light exercises such as walking as it improves blood circulation, thus reducing the risk of clots. After four weeks, most people can resume their regular workout routine, including heavy lifting. However, you should consult with your surgeon before doing so.
Following these five tips will significantly ease your recovery period following a BBL. Furthermore, they will also help you have a more contoured butt by preserving the results of your surgery.
Jenn Walker is a freelance writer, blogger, dog-enthusiast, and avid beachgoer operating out of Southern New Jersey.
