Gluteal Fat Transfer

What is Gluteal Fat Transfer?

Gluteal fat transfer, also known as Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), is a plastic surgery procedure that reshapes and augments the buttocks using the patient's own fat. This technique combines liposuction to extract fat from areas with excess (such as abdomen, flanks, or thighs) with subsequent processing and strategic injection into different points of the buttocks to improve their shape, projection, and volume.

Unlike gluteal implants, fat transfer offers more natural results by using your own tissue, minimizing the risk of rejection and with minimal scarring. It also has the added benefit of improving body contour in the donor areas.

Ideal Candidates

• Have enough body fat in other areas to be transferred
• Want to improve the shape and projection of their buttocks
• Have asymmetrical or low-volume buttocks
• Have good skin elasticity in the gluteal region
• Maintain a stable weight
• Do not smoke or are willing to quit before and after the procedure
• Have realistic expectations about the results
• Are in good general health

It is important to note that this procedure is not intended as a weight loss method, but as a body contouring technique.

Surgical Procedure

Phase 1: Liposuction

1. Administration of general anesthesia or deep sedation with local anesthesia
2. Small incisions (2-3mm) in the donor areas
3. Infiltration of tumescent solution to facilitate extraction and minimize bleeding
4. Meticulous liposuction using gentle techniques to preserve fat cell viability
5. The most common donor areas include abdomen, flanks, back, and thighs

Phase 2: Fat Processing

1. The extracted fat is processed by centrifugation, filtration, or decantation
2. This step is crucial to separate viable fat cells from liquids, damaged cells, and debris
3. The goal is to obtain high-quality purified fat to maximize graft survival

Phase 3: Transfer and Injection

1. The processed fat is transferred to special syringes
2. Multiple injections are made in different layers and points of the buttocks
3. The surgeon carefully sculpts the distribution to achieve a natural and aesthetic shape
4. Generally, a slight overcorrection is made, anticipating that some fat will be reabsorbed

The total duration of the procedure ranges from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the number of donor areas and the extent of the transfer.

Recovery and Results

First week

• Use of compression garments in liposuctioned areas
• No sitting directly on the buttocks (crucial for graft survival)
• Sleep exclusively on your stomach or side
• Moderate swelling and bruising
• Use of a special BBL cushion when absolutely necessary to sit
• Gentle walks to promote circulation

2-3 weeks

• Gradual reduction of swelling
• Continue sitting restrictions (maximum 15-20 minutes with BBL cushion)
• Return to non-physical work activities
• Maintain compression in liposuctioned areas

4-6 weeks

• Sit with caution and for longer periods
• Gradual return to light physical activities
• Noticeable reduction in swelling

8-12 weeks

• Full return to all activities
• More defined results visible
• Sit normally without restrictions

It is important to note that during the first 3 months, approximately 30-40% of the transferred volume may be reabsorbed by the body. Final results are seen after 6 months, when graft survival stabilizes.

Results and Longevity

The results of gluteal fat transfer are long-lasting, as the fat cells that survive the transfer process remain viable in the long term. However, factors that may affect results include:

• Significant weight fluctuations
• Excessive exercise that reduces overall body fat
• Natural aging
• Habits such as smoking that compromise blood circulation

To maximize and maintain long-term results, it is recommended to:

• Maintain a stable weight
• Follow a balanced, nutrient-rich diet
• Avoid sitting directly on the buttocks during the first 6-8 weeks
• Do not smoke
• Exercise regularly with an emphasis on gluteal strengthening once recovered

Risks and Considerations

• Asymmetry
• Contour irregularities
• Excessive fat reabsorption
• Infection
• Hematomas or seromas
• Fat embolism (serious but rare complication with proper techniques)
• Fat necrosis or cyst formation
• Changes in sensation
• Unsatisfactory aesthetic results

It is essential to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with specific experience in gluteal fat transfer and to strictly follow all postoperative instructions.

Technique Evolution and Safety

In recent years, gluteal fat transfer has evolved significantly in terms of safety. Current recommendations include:

• Exclusive injection in the subcutaneous and superficial muscle plane (avoiding deep intramuscular injection)
• Use of larger, blunt cannulas
• Limiting the total transferred volume
• Proper patient positioning during surgery
• Liposuction techniques that preserve cell viability

These modifications have substantially reduced the risks associated with the procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do the results last?

The results are permanent for the transferred fat cells that survive. However, significant weight changes can affect volume and shape.

Is the procedure painful?

Most patients experience moderate discomfort, mainly in the areas where liposuction was performed. Pain is adequately controlled with medication.

How should I sleep after surgery?

During the first 6-8 weeks, it is recommended to sleep exclusively on your stomach or side, never on your back, to avoid direct pressure on the buttocks.

What alternatives exist if I do not have enough fat to transfer?

For patients with a low body fat index, gluteal implants or hybrid procedures with a smaller amount of fat combined with other techniques may be considered.

Can other procedures be performed simultaneously?

Yes, gluteal fat transfer is often part of a comprehensive body contouring approach, frequently combined with abdominoplasty or liposuction of other areas.

At Bodies Plastic Surgery, our specialized team performs gluteal fat transfers using the most advanced and safest techniques, always prioritizing natural and harmonious results that enhance the body silhouette proportionally.