Sometimes, especially after losing a lot of weight, our skin loses its elasticity and starts to sag. Although this condition can occur anywhere on the body, many people notice it in the buttocks. It is normal to feel a little anxious about your appearance at times like these. In such cases, a butt lift is a cosmetic surgery that removes sagging skin and gives a smoother and more toned appearance. Let’s talk about this in detail today.
Simply put, what is this Butt Lift?
A Butt Lift, also known as a Gluteal Lift, is a procedure that involves removing excess, sagging skin around your buttocks, lifting the remaining skin up and sewing it up. It's like having a big dress, and having it sewn up to fit you.
The most important thing is that a Butt Lift surgery does not increase the size of your buttock area . It only enhances its shape, reduces wrinkles and dimples in the skin, and gives it a smoother, more youthful appearance.
Are Butt Lift and BBL the same thing?
Yes, these are definitely two surgeries. Many people confuse the two. Although the name says `Butt Lift`, `Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)` is something completely different. It is very important to understand this difference.
| Feature | Butt Lift (the surgery discussed in this article) | Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) |
|---|---|---|
| Main objective | Removes sagging, excess skin, lifting and tightening the back area. | Adding volume and size to the back area. |
| The process of doing | The skin is cut, the extra parts are removed, the remaining skin is pulled and sewn back together. | Liposuction involves taking fat from another part of the body (such as the abdomen or thighs) and injecting it into the back area. |
Simply put, if you want to get rid of sagging skin, a Butt Lift is the right choice, and if you want to increase the size, a BBL is the right choice.
Who is this surgery really suitable for?
This is not something that everyone can do. Your plastic surgeon will decide whether this surgery is right for you or if something else is best. Here's how we usually distinguish between those who are most suitable for this surgery and those who are not.
| ✅ Best suited for these people | ❌ Not very suitable for these people |
|---|---|
| For those in good general health and non-smokers . | For those who are not prepared for the long recovery period. |
| For those who are not obese. | For those who are unable to quit smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery. |
| For those without chronic diseases that delay wound healing, such as diabetes. | For those with other serious health problems such as heart disease. |
| For those who have lost a large amount of weight or have undergone weight loss surgery. | For those who have unrealistic expectations about the results. |
| For those with excess fat and sagging skin in the back area. | For those whose weight has not yet reached a stable level and whose weight is increasing or decreasing. |
What happens before and during the surgery?
Preparing for surgery
Your doctor will give you a clear set of instructions about what to do before surgery. The most important ones are:
- Quit smoking completely: Smoking is a major obstacle to wound healing.
- Stopping certain medications: Medications like aspirin and some herbal supplements that increase bleeding may be advised to be stopped for a while.
During surgery
This surgery takes several hours.
1. Anesthesia: You will be given general anesthesia. This means that you will be completely asleep throughout the surgery. You will not feel any pain.
2. Incisions: The location of the incisions may vary depending on the technique used by the doctor. Incisions are usually made in areas that are hidden from view and covered by clothing. For example:
- Lower back pain
- In the hip area
- Under the buttocks
3. Skin removal: Excess, sagging skin is removed through incisions, and the remaining skin is pulled up and tightened. Sometimes, `(Liposuction)` technique can also be used to make the shape more beautiful.
4. Finishing the surgery: The incisions are closed with stitches, tape, or something else. Then, dressings are applied. Small tubes (surgical drains) may be placed under the skin to drain excess blood and body fluids.
What should I be careful about after surgery?
After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area. You will be monitored by your doctor until you have fully recovered from the anesthesia and there are no complications. You may need to stay in the hospital overnight.
Take special care of these things after you go home:
- Sitting and sleeping positions: You should avoid putting pressure on the surgical site. Use pillows for support and maintain the position as directed by your doctor.
- Special clothing: You may be advised to wear a special compression garment to reduce swelling and help the skin tighten and heal.
- Wound and drain care: Follow instructions exactly on how to keep them clean and cared for.
- Medication: Take your blood clotting medications and painkillers on time.
What are the risks and complications?
Like any surgery, there are some risks. Your doctor will explain all of this to you. Some of the possible complications are:
- Bleeding `(Hematoma)`
- Seroma (fluid accumulation under the skin)
- Infections
- Chronic pain
- Scarring (these are permanent)
- Numbness
- Wound healing problems
- Persistent swelling
How long does it take to heal? When can I see results?
Recovery time: This is a slow process that requires patience. It may take a few weeks to return to normal activities. It may take a few months to fully recover.
Results: You may notice a difference immediately after surgery. However, it will take about 3 to 6 months for the swelling to subside and for the final and full results to be seen. These results will last longer if you maintain your weight.
The truth about scars
Because the skin is cut during this surgery, scars are inevitable . They do not fade completely. However, surgeons try their best to place these incisions in places that are not too visible, such as undergarments or swimsuits. Over time, the color of these scars fades to a great extent, becoming the same color as the skin.
When do you need to see a doctor urgently?
If you experience any of the following symptoms after surgery, call your surgeon immediately. If necessary, go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU).
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing (Dyspnea)
- Change in heart rate
- Excessive bleeding or swelling
- Very severe, unbearable pain
- Fever
Take-Home Message
- A butt lift is a surgery that removes sagging skin from the buttocks and improves their shape. It does not increase size.
- The surgery to increase the size is called BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift). It is completely different from this.
- It is very important that you are in good health, do not smoke, and maintain a stable weight before having this surgery.
- It may take several months to heal, so you need to be patient.
- The scars caused by surgery are permanent, but they are located in places that are not visible.
- Before undergoing any cosmetic surgery, speak with a doctor who has extensive experience in the field and fully understand your expectations and the risks of the surgery.
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