Weightlifter considering BBL - scared of physical limitations - is it possible to return to heavy squatting, hip thrusting, etc?

Question

Weightlifting is a big part of my life and necessary for my mental health. I work hard at it and enjoy progressing in performance over time. I am also a good candidate for a BBL, as aesthetically I'm limited by genetics and have also had a weight loss, leading to stubborn excess in the tummy/flank region. I could likely have a great result with lipo only, but it could be nice to be slightly curvier/well-rounded. However, if the trade off is not being able to work out like I usually do (due to fear of ruining results or physical limutations), it would not be worth it. Are there any surgeons out there that have patients like me that are actually able to get back to heavy squatting, hip thrusting, deadlifting, etc.? Have you seen patients that have to permanently alter their routine? Would just lipo be less risky? Brutal honesty, please. In search of the right surgeon.

Jacob Carlson, MD · Answer

Performing liposuction and a BBL should not lead to any long-term physical limitations. There should not been any manipulation of the muscle or nerves in this surgery, so you would be able to perform any physical activity that you are physically capable of now.
In the immediate post-operative period, your surgeon will have restrictions for you. For example, I tell my patients that they can resume light exercise at 3 weeks post-op, then they can resume full activity at 6 weeks post-op. For the fat transfer process to be successful, the fat that is transferred to the buttocks needs to receive an adequate blood supply. In order for that to happen, patients need to avoid moving the fat (i.e. cannot sit on the buttocks) for a prolonged period of time. For that restriction, some surgeons will say as little as two weeks. I've heard some say as long as eight weeks.
Once the transferred fat achieves an adequate blood supply and the swelling resolves, you will have a better idea of how much fat has 'survived' the transfer process. At that point, the transferred fat is going to act like fat anywhere else in the body, and it will do so proportionately. If you work out aggressively, those fat cells can decrease in size. Conversely, if you gain weight, those fat cells can increase in size. So while there are no changes in your physical ability following this type of surgery, your results can fluctuate over the long term depending on your level of activity.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Each provider has their own protocol for postoperative care, including sitting and movement.
We typically recommend patients physically take it easy for the first three weeks after that gradually get back into normal routines.
There is in reality very little scientific evidence showing that movement, exercise, sleeping position or sitting has any impact on the outcome of this procedure.
I suggest having a if you in person consultations with plastic surgeons in your community to get a better assessment and opinion of each individual provider.Best,Mats pack drum MD

Weightlifter considering BBL - scared of physical limitations - is it possible to return to heavy squatting, hip thrusting, etc?

Answers (2)

More Lipo 360 BBL Questions

Lipo 360, BBL, J-Plasma - is arm lipo suction safe with J-Plasma added?

How many CC's of fat would be required to fill these indentations in my outer thigh? (Photo)

Will round 2 BBL show results I’m looking for? Have I had too much lipo? (Photos)

My goal is a smaller waist, flat tummy, with a rounded glute What do you recommend? Liposuction bbl ? Or butt implants? Photos)

How can I make my butt more round? (Photos)

I want to to carve out my waist and add projection to my buttocks. Suggested procedure to address my concerns? (Photos)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS