Dr. Saber’s Blog

Brazilian Butt Lift vs Butt Implants: What’s The difference?

Body contouring can apply to many areas, but the derrière is often one place individuals may want a rounder and more toned look. Generally, there are two cosmetic procedures commonly sought to change the appearance and shape of the buttocks – a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) or butt implant surgery. 

Brazilian Butt Lift vs butt implants What's the difference

What is a BBL?

Buttock augmentation via a Brazilian butt lift consists of taking a patient’s own fat from other areas of the body and using it to fill out their backside. There are two types of plastic surgery used in a BBL procedure. First, liposuction will take excess fat from the hips, waist, or arms. Then, the fat cells will be injected into the tissues around the gluteal muscles using a fat transfer. A fat transplant to the buttocks often provides a more natural-looking enhancement of the derrière. 

What is an alternative to Brazilian butt lift surgery?

Buttock implants are the most common alternative to a Brazilian butt lift. The butt implant procedure relies on solid silicone implants instead of body fat. The implants are generally placed into the gluteal muscle or slightly below it, depending on your body type, to give a fuller, more rounded look. The biocompatible implants can only be inserted through an incision, usually under the buttock cheek or in the crease between the buttocks. 

Butt implants vs BBL: which is better?

There are pros and cons of each cosmetic procedure. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of both types of butt enhancement surgeries can help you make a more informed decision. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind: 

The type of fillers used 

The fat grafting procedure used in BBL surgery is ideal for those who prefer not to put something “foreign” into their body, as the filler is fat from the patient’s body instead of a synthetic product. Transferred fat often gives a more natural look, and experienced plastic surgeons can place the fat cells exactly where they are needed to fill out any flat or square areas. Additionally, the regions from which the fat is harvested typically become more toned and contoured, providing a welcome body-shaping effect to more areas than just the buttocks. 

However, not everyone is a good candidate for a Brazilian butt lift procedure, especially those with a slim body type who do not have enough fat for fat injections. Furthermore, patients who want a more pronounced look than BBL results can provide may also turn to buttock enhancement implants instead of BBL surgery. Silicone implants can significantly increase the size of the backside, making them preferable to those with dramatic aesthetic goals. 

The procedure and recovery

During a BBL surgical procedure, two different surgeries will be performed—liposuction and fat transfer injections. As a result, you will have more than one set of incisions: some where the fat cells were harvested and others where they were placed in and around the buttocks. Our surgeon strategically decides where to take fat from and where to put it so the scars are as minimal and hidden as possible. 

Recovery time after a Brazilian butt lift procedure can last as long as six months, but the healing process gradually improves week by week. It’s important to know that you cannot put pressure on the butt, especially by sitting, for the first two weeks. Doing so can cause the fat cells to be reabsorbed, resulting in an overall volume loss. Although there are special pillows to shift weight off of the butt cheeks, a return to regular activity generally takes a month or two. Most patients take at least two weeks off work to rest and heal. 

Butt implant surgery consists of only one type of procedure, placement of the silicone implants. However, larger incisions are required to insert the implants. As with a BBL, there will be pain, bruising, and swelling around the incision sites during the recovery period. Similarly, sitting is not allowed for the first two weeks, not because of fat cells reabsorption but because undue pressure can shift the implants or irritate the incisions. Generally, patients with booty implants experience less loss of volume during the healing phase than BBL patients. 

Both cosmetic procedures share a similar timeline for recovery, including resuming exercise (often around one-month post-op), returning to work, and lifting restrictions entirely (closer to three months). 

Complications 

The risk of complications is present with both a BBL and butt enhancement implant surgery, though there are slight differences. Although BBLs have garnered a reputation for being unsafe in recent years, they are Dr. Saber’s preferred type of gluteal augmentation procedure because the potential risks are low when adequately performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. From the beginning, Dr. Saber’s caring and strategic approach helps mitigate the risk of complications. One complication that patients are made aware of is the risk of a fat embolism. This happens when fat makes its way into the bloodstream and prevents circulation.

The risk of this complication is less than 1%. On a positive note, because a BBL uses excess fat from a patient’s body, there is no risk of rejection. 

During a butt implant procedure, silicone implants are placed inside the body. The body can reject these foreign objects, potentially leading to fever, swelling, infection, and other dangerous issues. Although it is considered rare, the human body naturally wants to fight foreign invaders, making the risk of rejection a looming possibility during any implant procedure. Depending on where the surgeon places the implants, there is also a risk of sciatic nerve damage. Silicone inserts placed below the muscle can lead to capsular contracture, meaning the muscles, tissues, and tendons around the implant are permanently tensed, often causing chronic pain that can radiate down the sciatic nerve. 

Other complications, such as the risk of infection at the incision site, change of the shape and size of the butt augmentation during the healing process, and general cosmetic surgery risks, are relatively comparable with both procedures. 

Durability of results

The final results of a BBL often don’t become apparent until a few months after surgery, when the fat cells have stabilized. However, Brazilian butt lifts are excellent for natural-looking results that complement your body type. As you age or experience weight fluctuations, the size and shape of your derrière may change slightly, which is why a BBL is considered a semi-permanent procedure. Fortunately, maintaining a healthy weight through diet and lifestyle can help prevent dramatic shifts. 

Alternatively, butt implants offer more immediate results thanks to the firm silicone implants that provide instant volume and contouring. Some plastic surgeons claim butt implants can last a lifetime, but the American Society of Plastic Surgeons states they are considered safe and can look aesthetically appealing for ten years or more. Nevertheless, weight loss or weight gain after butt enhancement with implants could result in a misshapen backside as the implants were inserted based on how your derrière looked at the time of the procedure. 

Which is the safest buttock enhancement, BBL or implants‌?

A consultation with Dr. Saber is an essential first step to figuring out which type of buttock augmentation procedure is right for you, as she can confidently discuss both surgeries. Still, Dr. Saber lists butt implants as a procedure she won’t recommend or perform as it is too risky. She is fully aware of the potential complications of butt implants, and the procedure doesn’t align with her goal to reduce the risk to her patients while still achieving their desired results. 

Have questions about butt augmentation? Talk to Dr. Saber! 

Dr. Sepideh Saber, MD, FACS, offers a sensitive female perspective to all her patients, regardless of age, gender, or orientation. Patients from all walks of life have praised their final results and her caring, thoughtful approach to all types of appearance and health-related concerns. To request a consultation, please make an appointment online or call us at (877) 205-4100 or click here

Dr. Saber’s practice is located in Encino, CA, and serves patients throughout the Los Angeles area. We are also convenient to Encino, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Calabasas, Burbank, Glendale, Hidden Hills, Agoura Hills, Northridge, North Hollywood, Malibu, Topanga, Canoga Park, Reseda, Valley Glen, Chatsworth, West Hills, Winnetka, Universal City, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Downtown Los Angeles, Silverlake, and Echo Park. 

Dr. Saber graduated from Stanford University’s world-renowned medical school and did her plastic and reconstructive surgery residency at the equally lauded University of Southern California. She then completed a fellowship at New York University in the extremely challenging and delicate disciplines of hand surgery and microsurgery.

Dr. Saber offers a more sensitive, female perspective for patients of all ages, genders, and orientations. Former patients from all walks of life have praised not only their treatment outcomes but her caring, thoughtful approach to a wide array of appearance and health-related matters.
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    Dr. Sepideh Saber, MD, FACS

    👩🏻‍⚕️ Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
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Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with #DrSaber who will create a customized plan for you!
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    ✨ Our patient came in for a Breast lift, Liposuction of the abdomen and flanks, and fat transfer to the breast . 

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  • What patients say about Dr. Saber

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    I was fortunate to find Dr. Saber after researching board-certified surgeons who specialize in breast cancer reconstruction revision surgery. I knew I was in good hands from the moment I spoke with the lovely and efficient Marlene, Dr Saber's office manager. Dr Saber patiently listened to my concerns and, after examining me, explained what I could realistically expect the outcome to be from another surgery. She also explained to me that she would need to review my previous surgery notes before we could discuss a possible further surgery, which I found comforting and highly ethical. I also discussed a couple of other procedures that I would like done, including fat removal from my large upper arms that had caused me great embarrassment for several years. Dr. Saber is an excellent surgeon who is incredibly kind and genuine. She truly understands the female body and the emotional aspect of body insecurities yet, she is transparent about what can and cannot be done and takes time to discuss realistic expectations and outcomes. My breast reconstruction revision surgery will take place in the New Year, but in the meantime, I have the most fabulous upper arms that I recently flaunted in a strapless dress (something I have not done in years). Dr Saber is truly one of a kind, and I still cannot believe how fortunate I am to have found her. I highly recommend Dr Saber.

    Linda DeCarlo November 29, 2023

    I don’t have enough wonderful words to describe Dr Saber and Marlene! I had a tummy tuck done this year and from start to finish the entire experience was amazing. Marlene is always so helpful and works so hard to make every detail a breeze for you. When I had my consultation with Dr Saber I was at a point of complete agony with my body. She instantly took that stress and frustration off my shoulders! As a woman not being heard by doctors for years I left that consultation with happy tears knowing I had finally found my Dr. It was a major surgery and I felt completely zen and at peace going in because she really does make you feel that safe. I didn’t think I would ever look the way I do now! She gave me the gift of having the body I kept fighting for. I will never stop recommending her.

    Monica Prusa October 9, 2023

    I saw Dr. Saber when I broke my wrist. I ended up having to have surgery. She did an excellent job and I am healing nicely. She was very professional, but was also very kind and compassionate. I would highly recommend her!!

    Sandy Schaupp September 13, 2022

    I LOVED DR SABER!!! There are a few reasons why I chose her. One was because she’s a female Doctor that was my goal who also did a good job (which I was able to confirm with all her before and after photos) and what sold me was my safety in mind. She made me feel like I was in the best hands ever along with Marlene who coordinated everything THANK YOU LADIES! Dr Saber helped me get back the body I have always desired. I had a lot of stomach fat from weight gain and I lost weight so a lot of my weight was in my front lower and upper abdomen. Now I have a super beautiful curvy body like an hourglass after a tummy tuck and lipo she did. She understood the assignment hahaha . I’m 32 years old no kids just wanted to enjoy my younger body looking and feeling beautiful and she really took good care of me. Even after hours I had an emergency due to my fault but she was there and got back to me very quickly and I’m very grateful. I also think her work says a lot because I stopped taking pain medication on the 3rd day after surgery and was fine with very minimal pain I was able to tolerate the healing process. Highly recommend going with her I just had a wonderful experience and would do it all over again if I had too. Maybe after I have kids. Thanks Dr Saber and team <3

    STEPHANIE d July 15, 2022

    Dr.Saber is by far one of the best plastic surgeons. I love how she takes her time to explain any procedure to the patients understanding. She always makes sure to answers any and all questions.From fillers to body contours she’s the one you want.

    Katherine Melara February 15, 2022

    Dr Saber is amazing! She is caring and very informative. I went in for fillers and she explained procedure step by step. I highly recommend her and look forward to future visits.

    Amanda Vazquez December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. She took time to listen, answer all my questions and was forthright in her recommendations. Her staff was friendly and helpful. I was very happy with the results and plan on going back. If you are looking for a first rate professional experience look no further she is the doctor for you!

    T R December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber is one of a kind plastic surgeon with a heart of gold. She is a well verse plastic surgeon that puts her patient's needs before anything else. She genuinely cares about every single patient, and her work speaks for itself. I notice every post-operative result on her Instagram (@saberplasticsurgery) the patients have this glow that radiates through. I have been going to Dr. Saber for my Botox for the past 3 years, and love the results every time. I know who I will be going to for any future plastic surgery needs, and will confidently refer family and friends to Dr. Saber for any Botox, fillers, and plastic surgery consultations.

    Rudy Garcia December 16, 2020

    I have nothing but great things to say about Dr. Saber! I am so pleased with my results from a breast augmentation she performed on me back in late June! She answered all my questions and concerns before and after my surgery. She’s very easy to get in contact with and she’s so nice. She made feel so comfortable throughout the whole process. 100/10 Lover her work!!

    Amanda Villegas October 15, 2020

    Dr Saber is hands down the best surgeon! She took her time answering my questions and explained procedure in detail. After doing liposuction six months ago, I am extremely happy with my results and I appreciate her so much.

    Marlene Cosentino October 15, 2020

    Dr. Saber is so kind and thorough with her patients! She is an amazing doctor and genuinely cars about everyone she comes in contact with. I would recommend her to anyone for any hand surgery or cosmetic procedure.

    Rachel Meach October 15, 2020