Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) in Upland & the Inland Empire
A Brazilian butt lift, often called a BBL, is a type of fat transfer. Fat is gently removed by liposuction from areas such as the belly, hips, back or thighs, then purified and placed into the buttocks to add shape and volume.
Because it uses your own fat instead of implants, a BBL can enhance the buttocks while also slimming the areas where fat is taken. It may help people who want a fuller, rounder or more balanced figure and have enough extra fat to transfer.
Who is a good candidate?
- Adults who want more volume or a rounder shape in the buttocks
- People with enough extra fat in areas like the belly, flanks or thighs
- Those at a stable weight and in good general health
- Non-smokers or people willing to stop before and after surgery
- Patients who can follow strict recovery and garment instructions
- People who understand some transferred fat will not survive
Dr. Smiley's technique and philosophy
Dr. Smiley, a board-certified plastic surgeon, often prefers the BBL over buttock implants because it uses the patient's own tissue. Fat cells are delicate, so he handles them carefully, processing the fat before placing it in small amounts through tiny incisions, building up the shape gradually in layers for a smooth, natural-looking result.
Each BBL is customized. Dr. Smiley studies your natural build and goals to decide where to remove fat and where to place it, so the liposuction contouring and the buttock shaping work together. If a patient does not have enough fat to transfer, he will discuss other options, such as implants, honestly.
What to expect
Consultation
At our Upland office, Dr. Smiley will examine your body, check how much fat may be available and talk about the look you want. He will review your health history and explain the steps of the surgery, the garments you will need and how to prepare.
The procedure
A BBL is performed in an accredited surgical facility, not in our Upland consultation office. It is usually done under general anesthesia and often takes roughly 90 minutes to two hours, though this varies. Fat is collected with liposuction, prepared and then injected into the buttocks.
Recovery
Discomfort is usually manageable with prescribed medication. You will follow specific instructions about sitting and sleeping positions, and compression garments are typically worn for a few months. Many people go back to desk work within about a week and return to exercise after a few weeks, as cleared by Dr. Smiley. Some of the transferred fat is naturally absorbed in the first couple of months. Everyone heals differently.
Before & after photos
Real patients of Dr. Smiley. Results vary; individual results depend on anatomy, health and healing.
See the full Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) before & after gallery on dr-smiley.com
Risks and safety
A BBL has real risks, and safety is a central part of your consultation. Possible risks include fat absorption, uneven or lumpy areas, asymmetry, bleeding, infection, scarring, the need for a touch-up and anesthesia risks. Fat embolism, when fat enters the bloodstream, is a rare but serious risk of buttock fat grafting.
Dr. Smiley will explain these risks in detail and how they are reduced. Because absorption cannot be predicted, results vary, and some patients may want a second fat transfer. No outcome can be guaranteed.
Frequently asked questions
How long does BBL recovery take?
Many patients return to desk work in about a week and resume exercise after a few weeks. Compression garments are often worn for a few months. Your exact timeline depends on how you heal and Dr. Smiley's instructions.
Will all the transferred fat stay?
No. Some fat is naturally absorbed by the body, usually within the first two months. The amount varies from person to person, and some patients choose a later touch-up.
What if I do not have enough fat for a BBL?
If you do not have enough extra fat to transfer, a BBL may not be the right option. Dr. Smiley can talk with you about alternatives, such as buttock implants.
Is a BBL better than butt implants?
Each has pros and cons. A BBL uses your own fat and also slims the donor areas, while implants can add volume for people with little extra fat. Dr. Smiley will help you decide which suits your body.
Book your consultation in Upland. Call (866) 372-3288 or text (714) 403-7092. Consultations are complimentary.
Learn more about this procedure on Dr. Smiley's main site: Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) at dr-smiley.com.