BBL-What to ask for?

BBL
goals are not quite as easy to effectively communicate as compared to breast
augmentation. There are no cup sizes or informative cc guides. However, I often find that breaking down the technical aspects of the operation can aid in communication by ensuring that patient and surgeon are on the same page.
We
as surgeons tend to describe things in regards to framing and esthetic zones
(as defined by Dr. Mendieta). Beginning with frame, patients are subdivided
into "A" frame, "V" frame based on the relationship of the
A point to the B point. The A point is the most prominent bony point on the
upper hip-the iliac crest. The B point is the prominent bony point on the lower
hip- the greater trochanter. When the A point is wider than the B point you
have the "V" frame which is generally considered less aesthetically
desirable. When the ratio is flipped with the B point being wider than the A
point you have an "A" frame which is more desirable. When the two
points are equal you have a "square" frame.
The
goal of most BBL procedures is to convert "V" or "Square"
frames into "A" frames by understanding the 11 aesthetic units from
which we either harvest or transfer fat. These units are:
1.
Sacrum or "V" zone at the top of the gluteal cleft
2.
Flank
3.
Upper buttock-lower flank
4.
Lower back-just above the "V" zone
5.
Outer leg-below the "B" point
6.
Gluteus-the "apple of the buttock"
7.
Inner gluteal-"Diamond Zone" crucial for emptying the "thong
zone"
8.
Mid-lateral buttock-"C" point between "A" and "B"
9.
Inferior Gluteal/Posterior leg (back of the leg)
10.
Upper back
While
this is all very technical, the goal is to achieve an "A" frame by
emptying zones 1-4, 7, 10 and building up area 6 and 8. The result is a cinched waistline and filled out frame.
With
regards to your specific question, the best way to approach a consultation is
to decide on your frame and then discuss what areas need to be emptied and what
areas need to be augmented. The number and letter guides are a standardized method of discussing what to expect.
As
always, discuss your concerns with a surgeon certified by the American Board of
Plastic Surgeons.

Bringing realistic "goal" photos is always a good idea so that you and your surgeon are on the same page. He can tell you wether he is able to accomplish what you are asking. Most surgeons use the technique of taking down the waist as much as possible with liposuction and then injected into the buttocks evenly. The fat is injected usually from the top of the buttocks (lower back) and/or the bottom depending on the patient's wishes and individual needs. Good luck with your procedure!