For more information on surgical procedures and the potential risks, please call Kenneth Bermudez, MD in San Francisco at 415-634-2773 today!

BBL Risks in San Francisco

All surgical procedures, including the Brazilian Butt Lift, have potential risks. You can reduce the threat of risks by choosing a qualified cosmetic surgeon to perform the procedure and by following all recovery guidelines. Still, it’s wise to learn about the potential risks prior to undergoing the procedure.

Infection

While not common, an infection is possible following a Brazilian Butt Lift. Symptoms of an infection include fever, yellow or green discharge, and redness that won’t go away. If you have an infection, you also might notice a bad smell coming from the surgical site. You can reduce your risk of infection by choosing a cosmetic surgery procedure that follows sterilization protocols. Also, make sure you clean the surgical site as directed to lower your risk.

Reabsorbed Fat

The cosmetic surgeon will transfer fat into the buttocks during the procedure. Your body might reabsorb some of the fat cells, making your results less noticeable. Your cosmetic surgeon can reduce the risk by using the proper technique during the fat transfer. You can also do your part by wearing your compression garment and avoiding direct contact with your buttocks during recovery.

Seroma

A seroma occurs when fluid builds up under the incision site. This causes swelling and puts you at risk of developing an infection. Your cosmetic surgeon can lower the risk of this complication by using drainage tubes to remove excess fluid. You can also reduce the risk by caring for your incision site.​​​​​​​

Unfavorable Scarring

While uncommon, it is possible to develop unfavorable scarring as a result of the procedure. Skilled cosmetic surgeons minimize this risk by placing small incisions in discreet areas during the liposuction and fat transfer. Your cosmetic surgeon can also recommend creams to reduce scarring.

Asymmetrical Results

It’s possible to end up with asymmetrical results following a Brazilian Butt Lift. This can occur due to poor surgical technique, a low fat cell survival rate, an infection, or failing to follow the recovery guidelines. While it’s preferred to have symmetrical results after the first procedure, you can undergo a revision if necessary.

Tissue Necrosis

Tissue necrosis is not common for Brazilian Butt Lift patients, but it is possible with any surgical procedure. This occurs when the surgical site does not receive proper blood supply. The healthy tissue dies, and it might have to be removed. You can lower the risk by avoiding contact with your buttocks during recovery and quitting smoking if you are a smoker.

Bleeding

While rare, patients can experience excessive bleeding at the incision site following the procedure. Your cosmetic surgeon will evaluate you to see if you have signs that your body will have difficulty healing. Your surgeon will also consider your medications, ensuring that you aren’t on anticoagulants that could cause bleeding.

Sensation Loss

Sensation loss is possible following a Brazilian Butt Lift. While many patients have some temporary numbness, a small number experience nerve damage. This can cause people to lose permanent sensation in the buttocks. Cosmetic surgeons lower the risk by using the proper techniques for this procedure.