Brazil is known for its super-sexy beaches and ultra-skimpy beachwear – the thong bikini bottom was popular there long before it ever reached the U.S. – so it’s probably no surprise a surgery designed to improve the appearance of the derrière would be called a Brazilian Lift. The medical term is actually gluteoplasty.

As the nickname implies, the Brazilian Lift raises or lifts the buttocks to help it appear higher, firmer and more youthful. As one ages, the volume or fullness, in the buttocks region, begins to decrease.  As a result, the buttocks can appear flat and saggy. But a Brazilian Lift goes one step beyond a traditional lift by augmenting the natural tissue of the buttocks with an added layer of fat for extra plumpness and fullness for a more youthful appearance.

Contrary to the days when women and men sought smaller, less pronounced bottoms today the trend is toward more fuller, rounder bottoms. In fact, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons says the number of people undergoing a Brazilian Lift rose by an amazing 28 percent in 2015 compared to 2014. That was preceded by a 15 percent increase the previous year, indicating it’s a trend that’s not likely to falter any time soon. And it’s not just young people who are undergoing the procedure; Brazilian Lifts are popular among middle-aged men and women as well.

If you’re thinking about increasing the volume and fullness of your buttocks, you probably have a few questions. Here are some answers to common questions when undergoing a Brazilian Lift.

How is the size of the bottom increased?

In a Brazilian Lift, fat grafts are the traditional method of increasing the size of the buttocks. However, in very slim patients who don’t have a lot of excess fatty tissue to spare, implants may also be used to provide the basic volume, with fat grafting performed around and over the implants for added “touchability” and natural, “bouncier” movement.

How should I prepare for the surgery?

A couple of weeks prior to your procedure, you’ll need to have a physical exam and blood testing to ensure you’re ready to undergo surgery. You should also stop smoking four weeks in advance and stop taking aspirin about a week before. You’ll receive specific instructions during your pre-surgery appointment.

What happens during the procedure?

The procedure itself can vary significantly depending on whether an implant is used or you opt for the all-fat approach. Implants require incisions to place the implant and secure it, with fat injected into the surrounding tissue either at the same time or sometimes once healing is well under way. For a fat graft procedure, the fat is removed from the donor area using liposuction, then processed to ensure it’s clean and pure. (And here’s the additional benefit of having fat grafts for your procedure – because grafts are harvested from the back, belly, thighs or “love handles,” you wind up with a slimmer profile.) Once processing is complete, the fat is injected into the buttocks in multiple areas and at varying depths to ensure the most consistent result. Some fat may also be transferred from other areas of the buttocks to accentuate the roundness of the final result. Procedures are performed using general anesthesia or IV sedation.

What is the recovery like?

Again, recovery can vary based on which type of surgery you have. Bruising and swelling are common aftereffects, and if you have fat grafts, you’ll need to wear a support garment for two weeks or so to help control swelling and promote optimal healing. You’ll also need to avoid sitting directly on your buttocks for up to three weeks to prevent injuring the fat cells and to preserve the integrity of the grafts. That also means no driving for those three weeks. In general, you should expect to relax (ideally in a reclining position) for the first week following your procedure to enable the grafts to attach themselves to their new locations. You’ll need to take at least two weeks off from work – three if your job involves sitting – and you can expect to resume your regular activities about four weeks after the procedure.

Can anyone have a Brazilian Lift?

Brazilian Lifts can be an ideal option for women and men with ample “spare” fat that can be used for the grafting process. Not only is fat essential for adding curves to the buttocks, but the liposuction procedure used to harvest the fat helps enhance the final results. Patients also need to be ready to spend several weeks recovering. And of course, it’s very important to discuss any existing medical conditions to ensure you’re healthy enough to undergo the procedure. The best way to know if you’re a good candidate is to schedule a personal evaluation and consultation.

If you have more questions or if you’d like to schedule an evaluation, book your private consultation today with Dr. Sherif Khattab at Beyond Beautiful (310) 325-2100 or fill out our online contact form and we’ll be in touch. http://khattabprod.wpengine.com/           

About Beyond Beautiful Torrance, California   

Torrance plastic surgeon Dr. Sherif Khattab is a prominent plastic surgeon who has been practicing in Torrance, California since 1988. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is known throughout the greater Southern California area for his meticulous surgical skill, artistry and genuine concern for his patients.