I am 5’7”, 165 pounds and my body fat is somewhere in the teens. How much body fat do I need? (Photos)

Question

I am 5’7”, 165 pounds and my body fat is somewhere in the teens. I’m a size 6. I’ve previously had a tummy tuck with lipo on the abdomen and lower back. I just want to change the square shape, not so much the size. Is it possible if I gain like 10 pounds?

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank-you for your question. There are no strict criteria for BMI requirements that are universally accepted for BBL procedures. The fat distribution is more important than the total amount of fat. Looking at your pictures, however, you do not seem to have enough fat to have a BBL at this time.  In general, most of my patients undergoing BBL procedures range from 20 to 25 BMI and that may be the range for getting good results for you. Please find an experienced Board certified plastic surgeon who can help you with all your concerns. All the best!

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for sharing your question. Given your thin, athletic form, finding fat may be challenging, however, if you have fat in your flanks which contribute to the “square” shape, this can be liposuctioned. You can transfer the fat to the hips/buttocks to create more curvature. Without a formal examination, it’s difficult to say what plan is optimal for you.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

In this regard, I recommend you waist and back Liposculpture, getting better curves especially in the waist, improving your body contour.

Finally, I suggested take the fat we get and transfer to the buttocks and hips, to mold them and get better volume, contour and butt projection, is that we know as "Brazilian Butt Lift" (BBL).

Kind regards,
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear LVsteph,
it is hard to tell for sure without an examination. If you are considering surgery, I would suggest you consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination, you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

George Lefkovits, MD · Answer

Your photos are unfortunately  inadequate to assess the shape of the buttocks. But BBL surgery can do a lot to make the buttocks rounder and more shapely. you should consult with a Board Certified PS with lots of experience performing BBL surgery. Good luck!

I am 5’7”, 165 pounds and my body fat is somewhere in the teens. How much body fat do I need? (Photos)

Answers (5)