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Did you just have a BBL surgery? In the past decade, Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) surgeries have become quite popular due to the appeal of fuller, shapely curves. While many patients achieve beautiful results due to this operative process, there can be complications. BBL is also one of the riskiest cosmetic procedures, and some people may wonder whether their surgery went wrong. Are you suffering from some issues after BBL? Here is a guide to help you know the signs of a botched surgery and the steps that you should take in case of these symptoms.

Signs of a Botched BBL Surgery

BBL surgery involves fat transfer from one part of the body to the buttocks, to create a rounder, fuller butt area. Complications arising from this procedure can range from minor to severe. Many people commonly suffer from these problems:

Bacterial infection

This is a common complication after BBL surgery. The entry of Pseudomonas and bacteria MRSA into the surgical area can result in serious infections. There could be various symptoms, such as:

  • Chills or high fever
  • Foul-smelling discharge
  • Redness around the operated area
  • Acute pain that fails to improve

If you experience these symptoms, they could indicate infection. You need instant medical intervention to prevent further complications. If you ignore these signs of infection, abscess formation, tissue damage, or even lethal conditions could occur.

Fat Necrosis 

Another serious complication of BBL surgery, Fat necrosis arises when there is death of the transferred fat tissue, due to lack of enough blood supply. This condition can result in hard spots or lumps beneath the skin. There could be pain or discomfort in the affected regions. 

Fat necrosis can lead to visible deformities and physical discomfort, which can negatively impact the natural appearance of the operated area. Check with your doctor to find out whether he confirms fat necrosis and indicates potential treatments. Further surgery for dead tissue removal might be required. 

Blockage of blood vessels

In rare cases, the entry of fat into blood vessels can lead to life-threatening complications. When fat enters large veins, it can travel to the heart, lungs, or brain. There can be acute health risks, such as fat embolism. 

After BBL surgery, you can suffer from any of these symptoms:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Sudden confusion or severe headache 
  • Racing heartbeat or chest pain 
  • Seizures or loss of consciousness

In case of such signs, you need instant emergency medical attention. Fat embolism happens to be a fatal medical emergency. 

Hematomas and Pneumothorax

After a BBL, there could be Hematomas or pools of blood under the skin. Some amount of bruising is normal. However, a hematoma is often bigger in size and more painful. It takes more time to resolve. It is a good idea to consult a doctor if you are suffering from:

  • Painful, swollen lumps
  • Inflammation that refuses to subside
  • Bruising that spreads beyond the surgical area

There could also be a rare complication called pneumothorax. It can happen if air leaks into the space between the lungs and chest wall during surgery. In case of such issues, you could be suffering from breathing difficulties or sudden chest pain. Consult a medical professional if you experience any of these conditions. You might need drainage or additional procedures to prevent complications.

Undesirable butt size and shape

If you are dissatisfied with the surgery results and find your butt size and shape to be quite different from your expectations, you have had a botched surgery even if the operation was technically successful. 

Consult with your surgeon to discuss potential revision options. Sometimes, there is a need for adjustments to achieve a more harmonious balance. 

When to Seek Help from a Qualified Surgeon?

Get in touch with your board-certified plastic surgeon for a reassessment if you suspect your BBL surgery was botched. Check whether the issues have resulted from surgical technique, healing complications, or factors unique to your bodyโ€™s response.

Based on the severity, solutions may range from minor touch-ups to more extensive corrective surgery. When patients feel dissatisfied with their results, they can benefit from second opinions. If your original surgeon cannot ensure the desired outcome, look for a surgeon who is experienced in BBL revision procedures.

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Takeaway

A botched BBL surgery can affect your appearance, health, and overall well-being. If you experience complications, timely intervention is crucial. While the risks associated with BBL surgery are real, you can ensure a safer, more successful experience by contacting your surgeon, doing some careful research, and ensuring a clear post-surgery care plan. 

Dr Smiley

Regarded as the preeminent plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, Dr. Smiley performs groundbreaking cosmetic procedures with a combination of delicacy and accuracy. He has gained worldwide recognition as a prominent figure in the field of plastic surgery.