I lost 5 lbs, 4 months post BBL, and lost size in my butt. If I gain weight, will my butt return to pre-weight loss size?

Question

Around 4 months post bbl I lost about 5 lbs in a month or so. My butt went down A LOT. I have a revision surgery to add more to my hips in a few months so I’ve been advised to gain weight. Will my butt return to the size it was pre-weight loss?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding changes in your body size after losing 5 pounds of weight, especially in the context of a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL). Your concerns primarily pertain to whether your buttocks will return to their original size before your weight loss. I understand this may be disappointing, but I am afraid the process isn't quite as straightforward.

During a Brazilian Butt Lift procedure, fat is harvested from certain parts of your body, purified, and then transplanted into your buttocks. This procedure is designed to enhance the shape and volume of the buttocks. Following the transplantation, the fat cells need to recruit a new blood supply to survive in their new location. Once they establish this blood supply, the transplanted fat cells will become a part of the existing tissue and grow or shrink according to the overall weight changes in your body.

When you lose weight, whether it's 5 pounds or more, you lose fat globally throughout your body. This includes the fat that was transplanted into your buttocks during the BBL. Therefore, if you lose weight post-procedure, it is expected that your buttocks will also reduce in size.

Unfortunately, the lost volume is not likely to return to its pre-weight loss size if you gain those 5 pounds back. The fat cells that died off during your weight loss won't resurrect. Thus, the reduction in the size of your buttocks due to weight loss is typically permanent.

If you wish to regain the size and shape of your buttocks after your weight loss, there are a couple of options. First, you might want to consider certain types of exercises that target the gluteal muscles, such as squats, lunges, and bridges. These exercises can help tone and strengthen the gluteal muscles, which can result in a more lifted and firmer appearance of your buttocks.

Alternatively, you might consider another fat transfer procedure. This option involves a similar process to your initial BBL, where fat is harvested from other parts of your body and then transplanted into your buttocks. However, this decision should be made in consultation with your plastic surgeon, as it involves surgical risks and considerations.

Thank you again for reaching out with your concerns regarding changes in your buttock size following weight loss. I hope this response provides a clearer understanding of your situation.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Gentle254140,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Moises Salama, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Weight loss, weight gain and exercise do affect BBL results. The fat transferred to your buttocks is affected in the same manner as when you normally lose weight or gain weight or exercise. Hope this helps. Please always consult with a board certified plastic surgeon. Take care, Moises Salama MD, board certified plastic surgeon

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank-you for your question! Weight loss after a Brazilian buttock Lift  can certainly impact on the results of your procedure. Some of the weight you lost from the buttocks could be from swelling and some from  the fat being absorbed. Once you gain weight the size of the buttocks, will generally increase in proportion to your current fat distribution, and not preferentially in your buttocks. Please discuss your concerns with your Plastic surgeon before your next procedure. All the best!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's difficult to say what caused the decrease in the size of your buttocks.  Typically a five pound weight loss or gain would not cause noticeable changes.  It could be related to decrease in swelling or loss of a portion of the grafted fat.

I lost 5 lbs, 4 months post BBL, and lost size in my butt. If I gain weight, will my butt return to pre-weight loss size?

Answers (10)

Answer: Weight loss after Brazilian Buttock Lift

Answer: Weight loss after Brazilian Buttock Lift

Answer: BBL

Answer: BBL

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Everything you need to know about Brazilian Butt Lift

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I lost 5 lbs, 4 months post BBL, and lost size in my butt. If I gain weight, will my butt return to pre-weight loss size?

Answers (10)

Answer: Weight loss after Brazilian Buttock Lift

Answer: Weight loss after Brazilian Buttock Lift

Answer: BBL

Answer: BBL

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Brazilian Butt Lift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.