Does fat transfer to hip dips carry the same risk as a BBL?

Question

How does the risk of fat transfer to hip dips compare to the risk of BBL?

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Both fat transfer to hip dips and Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedures involve transferring fat from one area of the body to another. It is generally considered to have a lower risk profile compared to BBL. This is because BBL involves injecting fat into the gluteal muscles, which are rich in blood vessels. If the injected fat enters a blood vessel and travels to the lungs, it can cause blockages and serious respiratory problems. On the other hand, fat transfer to hip dips involves injecting fat into the hip dips or other areas of the body to enhance curves and create a more hourglass figure. The procedure is typically less invasive than BBL, as the fat is not injected deep into the muscle tissue. As a result, the risk of serious complications is generally considered to be lower. It's important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of any cosmetic procedure with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon before making a decision.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Sincere920766, thank you for your question. Every procedure is safe in expert hands. When it comes to the risks associated a procedure the answer is not straightforward. Overall, risk levels are highly dependent on the surgical technique employed by the specialist. The type of anesthetic used and any potential underlying medical conditions should also be factored in when you want to have a procedure done. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Omar Tillo, MD, MS, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

Fat transfer to hip dips and Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) are two different procedures, and while they both involve the transfer of fat, the risks associated with each procedure can differ.BBL involves the removal of fat from other parts of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs, and transferring it to the buttocks to enhance their size and shape. This procedure carries a higher risk of complications, including fat embolism, which can be life-threatening. This is because the fat is injected into the buttock muscles, which have a rich blood supply, and if the fat enters a blood vessel, it can travel to the lungs and cause serious problems.Fat transfer to hip dips, on the other hand, involves the transfer of fat from one part of the body to another to enhance the shape of the hips. This procedure typically involves injecting the fat into the subcutaneous tissue, which is less likely to cause fat embolism. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with fat transfer to hip dips, including infection, bleeding, and asymmetry.You can still also have fat transfer to the posterior gluteal area (buttocks) safely via superficial gluteal lipofilling (SGL) or BEST-F techniques which involves the use of ultrasound scan to insure that the fat is only injected into the subcutaneous space, not into the muscle as recevntly recommended by the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS). Link here.

Saad Alsubaie, MD, FACS, FRCSC · Answer

In the hands of a board certified plastic surgeon by the American Board of Plastic Surgery the risk should be lower than the untrained hands. If done correctly and safely BBL is not the riskiest procedure in Plastic Surgery and we sure do more invasive and lengthier procedures. To answer your question from anatomical standpoint the risk of injecting fat in the blood vessels is lower as long as your surgeon stays superficial and avoid injecting any fat in the buttock muscles.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Sincere920766,
the risk is the same. 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

Does fat transfer to hip dips carry the same risk as a BBL?

Answers (8)

Answer: Choose a Board Certified surgeon by the ABPS

Answer: Choose a Board Certified surgeon by the ABPS

Answer: Fat transfer

Answer: Fat transfer

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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.

Does fat transfer to hip dips carry the same risk as a BBL?

Answers (8)

Answer: Choose a Board Certified surgeon by the ABPS

Answer: Choose a Board Certified surgeon by the ABPS

Answer: Fat transfer

Answer: Fat transfer

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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.