Brazilian Butt Lift in Delafield
Shape and balance, drawn from your own curves.
A Brazilian butt lift (BBL) is a cosmetic surgical procedure that uses autologous fat transfer to enhance the shape, size, and contour of the buttocks. Fat is harvested from donor areas such as the abdomen, flanks, thighs, or back via liposuction, processed to isolate viable fat cells, and then carefully reinjected into the subcutaneous tissue of the buttocks. Multi-society safety guidelines from ASPS, ISAPS, and ASERF emphasize subcutaneous-only injection and the use of ultrasound guidance to reduce the risk of pulmonary fat embolism, the primary safety concern associated with this procedure.
At a Glance
- Gluteal fat grafting has been associated with a higher mortality rate than other cosmetic procedures, primarily due to the risk of pulmonary fat embolism from intramuscular fat injection[5]
- Multi-society safety guidelines recommend that fat be injected only into the subcutaneous space and never into or beneath the gluteal muscle to reduce the risk of fatal fat embolism[7]
- Surgeons who reported injection of fat into the subcutaneous plane experienced a 63% reduction in the risk of fatal and nonfatal pulmonary fat embolism compared to deep muscular injection[8]
- Approximately 30% of transferred fat cells are typically reabsorbed by the body, with the remaining fat cells establishing blood supply and persisting long-term[1]
Overview
A Brazilian butt lift combines liposuction with fat grafting to enhance buttock shape and volume using the patient's own tissue. The procedure involves harvesting fat from areas with excess deposits, processing the fat to concentrate viable adipocytes, and strategically reinjecting it into the buttocks to achieve the desired contour.
Because the procedure uses autologous fat rather than synthetic implants, it can produce results that feel and move naturally. The liposuction component also contours the donor areas, which can enhance the overall body silhouette. However, not all transferred fat cells survive, and some volume loss is expected as approximately 30% of grafted fat is typically reabsorbed.
Safety has been a significant focus of professional societies including ASPS, ISAPS, and ASERF, which have issued joint guidelines emphasizing subcutaneous-only fat injection and the use of intraoperative ultrasound guidance. These measures address the primary risk of pulmonary fat embolism, which occurs when fat enters the gluteal venous system through intramuscular injection.
What to expect
- Initial consultation to discuss goals, evaluate body habitus, assess available donor fat, and develop a personalized surgical plan
- Pre-operative evaluation including medical history review, lab work, and physical examination
- Assessment of donor sites to determine optimal fat harvest locations
- Administration of general anesthesia or intravenous sedation with local anesthesia
- Infiltration of tumescent solution into donor areas to reduce bleeding and facilitate fat extraction
- Liposuction of donor areas using a thin cannula to harvest fat
- Processing of harvested fat through centrifugation, decanting, or washing to isolate viable fat cells
- Strategic reinjection of processed fat into the subcutaneous tissue of the buttocks in small aliquots using specialized cannulas
- Ultrasound guidance may be used to confirm subcutaneous-only fat placement
- Closure of liposuction incision sites with sutures, skin adhesive, or surgical tape
- Application of compression garments to both donor and recipient areas
- Post-operative monitoring and discharge with detailed recovery instructions
How a brazilian butt lift works
- The surgeon performs liposuction to harvest fat from one or more donor sites, typically the abdomen, flanks, lower back, or thighs. A tumescent solution (diluted local anesthetic with epinephrine) is first infused to reduce bleeding and trauma. A thin cannula is then used to gently dislodge and suction fat from the donor areas.
- Harvested fat is processed through decanting, centrifugation, or washing with sterile saline to separate viable adipocytes from blood, oil, and cellular debris. This concentration step is critical for maximizing fat graft survival.
- Processed fat is reinjected in small aliquots throughout the subcutaneous tissue of the buttocks using specialized cannulas. Fat is deposited in multiple thin layers to maximize contact with surrounding tissue and establish blood supply. Current safety guidelines mandate that injection remain in the subcutaneous plane only.
- Intraoperative ultrasound guidance may be used to monitor cannula tip position in real time, confirming that fat is deposited in the subcutaneous space and not into or beneath the gluteal muscle, where the risk of venous injury and fat embolism is highest.
When it's recommended
- Desire for increased buttock size, fullness, or projection
- Flat or shapeless buttock contour
- Buttock asymmetry
- Body proportion imbalance between the torso and lower body
- Volume loss in the buttocks due to aging or weight fluctuation
- Desire for body contouring with simultaneous fat reduction in donor areas
- Preference for autologous tissue augmentation over synthetic implants
Is a brazilian butt lift right for you?
Reach out to learn more from Dr. Lucas Boehm.
Recovery & aftercare
- A compression garment is typically worn for several weeks to reduce swelling and support the treated areas
- Sitting directly on the buttocks is generally restricted for 2-3 weeks to protect fat graft survival
- Patients may use a specialized BBL pillow or cushion when sitting is necessary during the initial recovery period
- Swelling, bruising, and soreness at both donor and recipient sites are common for the first 2-3 weeks
- Most patients can return to light, non-strenuous activities within 1-2 weeks
- Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are typically restricted for 6-8 weeks
- Final results may take 3-6 months to stabilize as swelling resolves and surviving fat cells establish permanent blood supply
- Follow-up appointments are needed to monitor healing and assess fat graft retention
Alternatives
- Buttock implants (silicone implants placed within or above the gluteal muscle)
- Non-surgical buttock enhancement with injectable fillers (limited volume increase)
- Buttock lift (excision of excess skin without volume augmentation)
- Exercise-based gluteal muscle development (non-surgical, limited results)
Related treatments
How much does a brazilian butt lift cost?
A brazilian butt lift at Consona with Dr. Boehm costs around $10,000. The exact amount depends on your unique goals and treatment needs. Schedule a consultation today to learn more and receive a personalized quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
- A Brazilian butt lift is a cosmetic surgical procedure that enhances buttock shape and volume using fat transferred from other areas of the body. Fat is harvested via liposuction from areas such as the abdomen, flanks, or thighs, processed to isolate viable cells, and then reinjected into the buttocks.
- The procedure is performed under general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, so patients do not feel pain during surgery. Post-operative soreness at both the liposuction donor sites and the buttocks is common for the first 1-2 weeks and is typically managed with prescribed pain medication.
- When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon following current multi-society safety guidelines, including subcutaneous-only fat injection and ultrasound guidance, the risk profile of a Brazilian butt lift has been significantly reduced. As with any surgery, there are risks that are discussed in detail during the consultation.
- Sitting directly on the buttocks is generally restricted for 2-3 weeks following the procedure to protect fat graft survival. Patients typically use a specialized BBL pillow when sitting is necessary. The surgeon provides specific guidance on sitting and sleeping positions during recovery.
- Approximately 60-70% of transferred fat cells typically survive and establish permanent blood supply. Some volume loss is expected as the body reabsorbs a portion of the grafted fat, and final results typically stabilize within 3-6 months. Results may vary based on surgical technique and post-operative care.
- Individuals with very low body fat (insufficient donor fat), active infections, uncontrolled diabetes, current smokers, those with bleeding disorders, or patients who are pregnant may not be suitable candidates. A thorough consultation helps determine whether this procedure is appropriate.
Brazilian Butt Lift risks & candidacy
Who should avoid this
- Insufficient donor fat for adequate harvest (very lean body habitus)
- Active infection at donor or recipient sites
- Uncontrolled diabetes or conditions that impair wound healing
- Current smoker (smoking significantly impairs fat graft survival and wound healing)
- Bleeding disorders or current anticoagulant therapy that cannot be safely paused
- Pregnancy or currently breastfeeding
- Body dysmorphic disorder or unrealistic expectations regarding surgical outcomes
- Significant medical comorbidities that increase surgical risk under general anesthesia
- History of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism (elevated risk with prolonged operative time)
Possible risks
- Pulmonary fat embolism (the most serious risk, which can be fatal if fat enters the gluteal venous system through intramuscular injection)
- Fat necrosis (death of transferred fat cells, which can cause firm lumps under the skin)
- Asymmetry or contour irregularities in the buttocks
- Excessive fat reabsorption resulting in less volume than expected
- Seroma (fluid collection) at donor or recipient sites
- Hematoma (blood collection) requiring drainage
- Infection at donor or recipient sites
- Poor wound healing or skin irregularities at liposuction sites
- Deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism (risk elevated with prolonged operative time)
- Skin discoloration or hyperpigmentation at incision sites
- Temporary or permanent changes in skin sensation
- Need for revision surgery to address asymmetry, volume loss, or contour issues
- Scarring at liposuction incision sites
Your surgeon
Care that respects what makes you, you.
Dr. Lucas Boehm is a Wisconsin native, board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon and the founder of Consona Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. His practice is dedicated exclusively to aesthetic surgery of the face, nose, breast, and body, with particular expertise in deep plane facelifts, rhinoplasty, and aesthetic breast surgery. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and completed his plastic surgery residency there as well. He then pursued an Aesthetic Society-endorsed fellowship in aesthetic surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Bradley Calobrace in Louisville, Kentucky. Known for meticulous attention to detail, he approaches each case with precision and intention. His philosophy emphasizes harmony and balance – enhancing what is already beautiful while ensuring every change feels natural, thoughtful, and uniquely you.
- Board-certified
- Am. Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellowship-trained
- Aesthetic surgery
- 12+ years
- In practice
Sources & references
This article draws on 9 sources, including peer-reviewed research.
Government & research
Educational & general
- ASPS - Buttock Enhancement
- ASPS - Buttock Enhancement Procedure Steps
- ASPS - Buttock Enhancement Risks and Safety
- ASPS - Buttock Enhancement Recovery
- ASPS - Plastic Surgery Societies Issue Urgent Warning About the Risks Associated with Brazilian Butt Lifts
- ASPS - Study Proposes New Standards for Safely Performing Brazilian Butt Lift
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lucas Boehm, MD · Last reviewed: 2026-06-13