If you’ve seen headlines saying that a Brazilian buttock lift is dangerous, it’s normal to pause and ask about safety. But here’s the truth: not all BBLs are performed the same way. When done by experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons using the safest techniques, like 1) injecting only into the subcutaneous fat layer, 2) using ultrasound guidance, and 3) limiting the number of surgeries per day, a BBL can be performed more safely.
The real problem isn’t the procedure itself, but how and where it’s being done. Many of the deaths linked to BBLs happened in high-volume, budget clinics that cut corners, rush through multiple surgeries a day, and sometimes let non-physicians assist with critical parts of the procedure. That’s where the danger lies.
Ethical, qualified surgeons like Dr. Haidenberg and Dr. Yaker continue to perform BBLs because:
- There’s strong patient demand.
- They know it can be done safely with the right technique and standards.
- Banning the procedure outright could push more patients to risky, unregulated clinics.
So yes, BBLs carry serious risk, but with the right surgeon and the right setting, that risk can be significantly reduced.
How Is a Brazilian Buttock Lift Done Safely?
A Brazilian butt lift (BBL) has two main steps: fat removal and fat transfer. First, fat is gently removed from areas like your abdomen, thighs, or flanks using liposuction. That fat is then purified and strategically re-injected into the buttocks to create a fuller, more defined shape.
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, with the surgeon using a thin tube called a cannula to inject the fat through small incisions. Proper technique is critical to a BBL procedure. Fat should only be placed in the subcutaneous layer (just under the skin), not deep into the muscle.
The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS) strongly recommends using ultrasound guidance and the following safety protocols to minimize risk:
- Fat should only be injected into the subcutaneous layer, never into the muscle.
- Use large, rigid (not flexible) cannulas to help avoid accidental deep injections.
- Angle the cannula slightly upward or parallel to the skin, not downward.
- Use ultrasound guidance to visualize where fat is being placed in real time.
- Surgeons must perform all critical parts of the procedure themselves, not delegate to unlicensed staff.
- Avoid scheduling more than a few BBLs per day to maintain focus and safety.
When done by an experienced, board-certified surgeon following these safety protocols, a BBL can enhance your curves using your body’s own fat. But as with any surgery, technique and following safety guidelines are critical.
What Are the Risks Associated with a Buttock Lift?
Like any surgery, a BBL comes with risks, but some are more serious than others. The biggest concern is pulmonary fat embolism (PFE), which happens when fat enters a blood vessel and travels to the lungs. This can cause respiratory failure and, in rare cases, death. Most of these events have been linked to fat being injected too deep into the muscle.
Other potential risks include:
- Infection
- Fat necrosis (when transferred fat dies and forms lumps)
- Asymmetry or unsatisfactory results
- Seroma or hematoma (fluid or blood buildup)
- Skin or nerve damage
- Prolonged swelling or pain
These risks are higher in high-volume, budget clinics where safety protocols are often ignored. Choosing a qualified, experienced surgeon who follows the latest safety guidelines is the best way to reduce complications and get results you love.
How Can I Ensure a Safe Buttock Lift Procedure?
A safe BBL starts with choosing the right surgeon at a reputable clinic. Look for someone who is board-certified, has extensive experience with BBLs, and follows the latest safety guidelines. Don’t be afraid to ask how many BBLs they perform a day, whether they use ultrasound guidance, and if they personally handle every part of the procedure.
Here’s what to look for:
- A board-certified surgeon (preferably by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery)
- A clinic that limits BBLs to 3–5 per day
- Use of ultrasound guidance during fat injection
- Fat injected only into the subcutaneous layer, never the muscle
- A full consultation with medical history review, not just a quick photo submission
- A surgeon who is transparent about risks and recovery
- The clinic should be clean, accredited, and transparent about who’s doing your surgery, and how.
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’t trade safety for price. Your body and your life deserve better.
Talk to a BBL Expert in Plano, Texas.
If you’re considering a Brazilian butt lift, your safety should come first, always. At Plano Plastic Surgery, our board-certified surgeons, Dr. Haidenberg and Dr. Yaker, use the latest safety techniques and personalized care to help you achieve beautiful, natural-looking results with confidence.
Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a safer, more sculpted you. We’re here to answer your questions, walk you through the process, and make sure you feel fully informed every step of the way.
Give us a call to schedule your BBL consultation at Plano Plastic Surgery. We serve patients in Plano, TX, and nearby areas, including Dallas, Richardson, Allen, Garland, and Arlington.
Frequently Asked Questions
How dangerous is a Brazilian butt lift?
BBLs carry serious risks if done improperly. The biggest danger is fat entering the bloodstream, which can be fatal. Most complications happen in high-volume, low-cost clinics.
Is Brazilian butt lift safe?
A BBL is generally safe, if done by a board-certified surgeon using proper safety techniques, like subcutaneous-only injections and ultrasound guidance.
Is Brazilian butt lift painful?
You’ll be under anesthesia during the procedure, so you won’t feel any pain during surgery. Afterward, soreness and swelling are expected. Most describe it as uncomfortable but manageable with medication.
How much does a Brazilian butt lift cost?
The cost of a Brazilian varies widely, depending on factors like the surgeon’s experience, location, number of liposuction areas, and facility and anesthesia fees. The best way to know the cost of your BBL procedure is to book a consultation at a reputable clinic like Plano Plastic Spa.
