Brazilian Butt Lift: a timeline

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), more than 21,800 Brazilian buttock lift procedures were performed in the United States in 2020 – and that number is expected to rise.

“It’s the shapely buttocks of celebrities like Beyoncé and Kardashian West…that inspire women and men to go under the needle,” reads a Vogue article on the subject.  While the result is the main goal when deciding to undergo a Brazilian butt lift, it is also important to understand the recovery process.

The way you take care of yourself after your Brazilian butt lift procedure will have a big impact on your results.  Allow your recovery to progress naturally. Don’t try to rush the healing process. Take adequate time off work and make sure you have the right equipment, such as a comfortable cushion to sit on, when you return.  Follow a nutritious diet low in sugar, fat and salt, and refrain from alcohol and smoking.  One of the most important recovery tips: don’t sit directly on your buttocks for at least eight weeks.  Use a cushion to relieve pressure and ensure optimal results.

The Meditravel team created this helpful breakdown of the Brazilian buttock lift recovery process to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Before Brazilian Butt Lift surgery

Before your Brazilian Butt Lift surgery, you will need someone to help you.  This may be a friend or family member who is responsible for helping you at home for a few days.  You will experience soreness, bruising, and swelling immediately after the procedure.  You may also experience an initial feeling of numbness.  If you are experiencing pain, tell your surgeon so he or she can prescribe medication to help you cope with the discomfort in the coming days.  When you return home, alternate between resting and taking short walks. Exercise is essential to reduce swelling and promote circulation. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to care for your body during the rehabilitation process.

Remember not to put direct pressure on your buttocks.  Sleeping on your side or stomach is recommended.  If you need to sit up, use a donut-shaped pillow. When sitting, make sure the pressure is on the back of your thighs so it does not affect the transplanted fat.

First week

During the first week, your surgeon will recommend wearing compression garments over the liposuction areas to minimize swelling and fluid retention.  Continue to use a pillow to maintain pressure on your butt. Lymphatic massage is helpful to speed healing and treat early scar tissue.

Week two to three

The pain and tenderness should radically go away.  However, you may still experience mild swelling.  Avoid sitting unless you use a pillow.  Consult your surgeon about whether you can begin driving.  Avoid lifting heavy objects and continue to take short walks.

Week four to five

During the fourth to fifth week, you can start taking longer walks and resume light exercise.  Do not lift heavy weights.  You may also return to regular housework.  You may continue to experience mild pain or tenderness.

Week six

Most patients should no longer experience discomfort or soreness.  If your recovery is going well, your surgeon will allow you to resume lower body exercises.  By week six, you should also be able to see visible results from your liposuction and fat grafting.  Remember that up to 40 percent of the transferred fat may not survive, regardless of recovery care.

Remember, however, that everyone’s body is different.  Factors such as age, health and medical history can affect individual recovery.  For more information about a Brazilian buttock lift, consult your surgeon.

If you are interested in a Brazilian Butt Lift, please contact us for more information, through our free online form.