How to Get Rid of BBL Scars

Posted October 21, 2024 in Brazilian Butt Lift

Close-up of a woman's buttocks in seamless white underwear against a white background.

The famed Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures due to the full, sculpted results it can achieve. However, as with any surgery, scarring comes with the territory. Minimizing the appearance of scars is a priority for many patients. This blog will discuss BBL scars in detail, including how to prevent them and methods for reducing existing scars.

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Does a BBL Leave Scars?

In short, yes. A Brazilian Butt Lift is essentially a fat grafting procedure consisting of a two-step process: liposuction and fat injection.

Technically, Brazilian Butt Lift scars are actually liposuction scars. During the initial phase, a plastic surgeon makes tiny incisions (3–4 millimeters) to insert the cannula for gentle fat harvesting. These incisions are typically located in inconspicuous areas, such as the back, hips, and abdomen.

In the second phase of a BBL, after the fat has been processed, it is injected into the fatty tissues of the buttocks using a 3-millimeter cannula. Once again, small incisions are required for this. A board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Brian Boyd will use discreet incision placement and employ specialized techniques for minimal scarring.

What Do BBL Scars Look Like?

Scars from a BBL are very small, resembling small dots about 4 millimeters long. After surgery, your incision sites will undergo several stages of healing. They will change in color and texture during this time, often starting out raised and red before softening and smoothing to a fine white line over time.

Every patient’s experience is unique and depends on individual factors such as the skin’s natural scarring response, skin tone, and post-procedure wound care.

How Long Do BBL Scars Take to Heal?

Initial healing, which occurs as the incisions close, typically takes about one to two weeks. During the scar formation stage, BBL scars often appear red. Over the following six months to one year, the scars will gradually fade, shifting from red to pink and eventually to white or your natural skin tone.

The final appearance of the scars depends on individual healing: they may blend with your skin tone or appear in shades like pink, mauve, brown, or even grayish. In the one to two years following surgery, most patients notice their scars flatten and continue to fade.

You can promote healing with healthy lifestyle habits. These include:

Eating a balanced, nutritious diet to support collagen production and healthy skin
Drinking plenty of water to keep the skin supple
Avoiding nicotine and alcohol, as these substances restrict blood flow and dehydrate the skin, which can both impair wound healing

Home Care for BBL Scars

Your BBL recovery period is your first opportunity to encourage optimal wound healing and minimal scar formation. Studies indicate that a patient’s active participation in wound care can profoundly affect healing outcomes. The following guidelines will help you take great care of your incisions and get a head start on good scar healing.

Keep Incisions Clean: This helps prevent infection and promotes faster healing. Usually starting 48 hours after surgery, you can clean incisions gently with soap and water.
Avoid Sun Exposure: UV rays from the sun can cause scars to darken and appear more noticeable. Stay out of direct sunlight, and use SPF and protective clothing when you must go outdoors.
Use Silicone Sheets: The pressure and hydration provided by silicone sheets help to soften and flatten scar tissue. Silicone gels like Bicornium have also been shown to aid in scar optimization.
Wear Your Compression Garments: The pressure from compression garments can help reduce swelling and fluid retention, which can contribute to raised scars.
Try Gentle Massage: Once incisions have healed completely, the pressure from gentle massages can help speed healing.

Be sure to follow Dr. Boyd’s postoperative instructions thoroughly and carefully. Additionally, keep all follow-up appointments. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to call his office.

Treatments that Reduce BBL Scars

If you are past the recovery stage and have visible scars you’d like to reduce, you have options! Various effective non-surgical treatments are available to reduce BBL scars for a smooth, blended appearance.

Microneedling: This technique uses tiny needles to trigger collagen production. Several sessions can help fade scars and make the skin smoother.
Chemical Peels: With this simple yet effective treatment, acid exfoliants are applied to the skin to remove old cells, revealing fresh skin beneath. Chemical peels are safe for most skin types to reduce superficial scarring.
Scar Revision: Some plastic surgeons, including Dr. Boyd, offer scar revision services. Scar management techniques may include massage, cortisone injections, and surgical revision, depending on the type and severity of the scar.

BBL scars can take over a year to fade on their own. If you are noticing slow or limited improvement after the first year, consult with your plastic surgeon to discuss your options for scar treatment and management.

Interested in a Brazilian Butt Lift in the South Bay?

If you are considering a BBL, your first step is to consult with a highly qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and options. Dr. Boyd is a board-certified plastic surgeon dedicated to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals. To learn more about the BBL procedure, we invite you to schedule a consultation by filling out our online contact form or calling (310) 597-4734.

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