Thanks to new standards set by reality TV stars, it seems like everyone is looking for that perfect hourglass figure. This means a full breast, trim waist, and now one of the most worked out muscles, a round butt.
Like any other muscle in the body, with proper diet and exercise, you can accomplish your butt goals. However, like with anything else, it may seem like there just are not enough hours in the day. Genetics may also hinder your process of achieving the look you want based on how your body stores fat.
Although this is all something to think about when you don’t see the desired results, there are cosmetic alternatives like injectables and surgical procedures like the BBL.
Brazilian Butt LiftÂ
Note that this procedure was not invented in Brazil, but instead named after a show titled “Building the Brazilian Butt.” This surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed worldwide. Broken down into two significant steps, the Brazilian Butt Lift begins with liposuction to remove fat from a specific body part. Excess fat usually needs to be removed for a successful transfer to the desired area (aka your butt). During this portion, you can pick a spot that has unwanted fat, such as areas around the waist, or love handles.
The retrieved fat is then purified and injected into the specific points on the buttocks to increase volume as well as improve the shape. This is an invasive surgery and is done under anesthesia, so remember to discuss this with your doctor if you have any medical concerns.
Sculptra
Most of us have heard of fillers before, as they can be especially useful for addressing facial features like pouty lips or hollowed cheeks. Sculptra is labeled as a dermal filler; however, it is made up of a different component known as poly-L-lactic (PLLA). This component is classified as a collagen stimulator. Collagen makes up the most protein in the human body and is known as the “glue” that holds tissue together to give us that youthful look. As we age, the body produces less collagen, creating wrinkles.
Sculptra injections qualify as non-invasive. During your procedure, injections are made in the targeted areas under the skin to stimulate collagen growth. This gives you a firmer and opulent buttocks. Most patients receive between 10 and 20 vials of material injected during their treatment.
Your Body Type and Preference: BBL vs. Sculptra
A Brazilian Butt Lift requires body fat to be transferred to the desired location. If a patient does not have enough harvestable, excess fat to begin, they may not be suited for a BBL. Sculptra does not require any excess fat, as it is merely a filler that can be injected directly into the buttock. Those with a thinner frame may have a better chance of seeing their ideal results through this method.
Recovery and Risks
A BBL involves the extraction and transfer of fat. As mentioned earlier this means that you will have to go under local or general anesthesia. Sculptra is a non-invasive treatment, which means you are wide awake for the entire process.
For a BBL, although there is minimal pain that can be controlled with adequate medication, you will not be able to sit or lie directly on your buttock for close to two weeks. Once you are ready, based on your doctors’ suggestion, you will be able to sit on a “donut” seat or by simply placing a pillow under your thighs for an additional eight weeks.
All cosmetic procedures come with their risks, and the BBL is no different. This surgery has several minor risks and side effects such as bruising, infection, scarring, and swelling. One of the most rare, but dangerous, however, is a fat embolism, which can be deadly. Always be your best advocate and talk to only board-certified professionals as well as doing your research.
Sculptra is a short procedure with minimal recovery time. Within 24 hours, you can return to your everyday routine. There is no need to refrain from sitting or lying on your buttocks. Unlike a BBL, the results are not usually seen right away, and you may need to make multiple visits. So, although the recovery is quick, keep in mind that you will have to set time apart for follow-up consultations.
With advantages like avoiding anesthesia and a quick recovery, it may seem like this procedure has nothing that can negatively affect you. Still, you must understand that every cosmetic procedure has some risks. There is the typical bruising, infection, and tenderness, but beyond that, side effects can arise from the fact that Sculptra is a filler that does not dissolve like the others. Because of this, there is a chance that lumps and bumps may form on the buttocks until they fade naturally after years, or you may have to go in for surgery to remove them.
Cost Comparison: BBL or Sculptra
Cost will be a significant factor in this decision, as with any other major life choice. A Brazilian Butt Lift is a much more invasive procedure that ranges from $2,000 to $10,000. This price range varies according to surgeon experience and complexities, which includes the amount of liposuction needed to achieve the amount of fat transfer desired.
Sculptra is on the lower spectrum in cost, reaching up to $900 per vile. You must take into consideration, as mentioned before, that this procedure may require multiple visits. Talk to your doctor beforehand to gain a better understanding of how many visits may seem necessary.