Airsculpt BBL Journey

Tummy looking better and loving my results so far. Still dealing with emotions of seeing swelling fluctuate as the days pass and fluid leaves my body but overall happy with the slight visible changes this early on... thanks Dr. B! :)

I’m currently 6 days post-op from an AirSculpt BBL performed by Dr. Baldwin in Austin. Recovery has definitely been challenging since I can’t sit or lie on my back yet. The hardest parts right now are using the restroom, eating comfortably, and sleeping. I experience pain in waves—mostly at night—which I believe is nerve-related.
That said, applying arnica gel, taking the pellets, and drinking the tea has helped my healing process immensely. Dr. Baldwin has reassured me that I’m healing normally, which brings me a lot of peace. I’m excited to continue seeing changes over time and am really hoping I retain my volume while my tummy flattens and my back rolls and flank fat continue to diminish.
For reference, I had a BBL Power Plus lipo with fat transferred to the buttocks from my flanks, back rolls, and full abdomen. I was awake for the procedure—and honestly, it hurt like hell —but I was told that if you’ve had children before, the pain can be easier to tolerate. I’ve been researching BBLs for years and finally decided to move forward after relocating from Houston to Austin. As intense as the experience was, it was oddly satisfying seeing the fat being removed, and my nurse Jessica was incredibly sweet and supportive throughout the process.
According to my boyfriend (and me!), my butt already looks much fuller and rounder than before. While many people resume normal activities within 2–3 days, I chose to work remotely and have relied heavily on delivery services and my boyfriend’s help. On occasion, I ride lying down in the trunk of our SUV (with lots of padding and blankets)—not ideal, but manageable as long as the roads aren’t too bumpy.
My cannula entry sites are still healing but show no signs of infection, thankfully. I shower every two days to avoid drying out my skin and so I can wear my faja as long as possible—23 hours a day, per doctor’s orders. I wasn’t able to attend my in-person post-op appointment at 3 days, but I did meet with Dr. Baldwin virtually. It’s kind of difficult to get a post op in-person appointment scheduled at this location since there are only 2 surgeons it seems. But I also want to shout out Dr. Anire Okpaku, who was kind enough to step in and evaluate me during my pre-op visit while Dr. Baldwin was out sick.
I do have a slight hernia, but it wasn’t an issue and Dr. Baldwin was able to work around it easily during surgery. My pre-op (and likely current) weight is 145 lbs, and I’m 5’2”.
Ladies—this is not something I’d recommend going through alone. Having support makes a world of difference, and I’m incredibly grateful for my boyfriend. He helps me get in and out of my faja, and I truly couldn’t do this without him.
Diet-wise, I’m focusing on high protein and fiber, mainly seafood and vegan/vegetarian foods. I’m eating smaller portions to stay comfortable in my garment and aim for 1–2 bowel movements daily. Just a reminder: it’s very normal not to have one for the first 1–5 days post-op, so if that’s you—don’t panic.
I'll continue to share photos as my body changes.
Please feel free to comment or ask any questions—I’m happy to share :)