BBL Death Rate: Should you do it? [Updated 2024]
How Dangerous Is a Brazilian Butt Lift?
Updated on 9/22/2023
By Mai Delacruz
Personal Fitness Trainer & Health Coach
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Social media has played a large role in creating short-term trends, whether in fashion, music, or body type. It has always been a problem to have idealized body types, but social media users are constantly reminded what their flaws are. Despite social media's role in spreading the body positivity movement, the fascination with and popularity of a specific, ideal body type outweigh the movement's efforts. A Brazilian butt lift (BBL) is a popular plastic surgery to achieve a tiny waist and curvy hips.
Using liposuction, a surgeon removes fat from one part of the patient's body and injects it into and around the buttocks to give the patient an hourglass shape.
Furthermore, BBLs are one of the deadliest plastic surgeries. Nearly 700 surgeons worldwide were surveyed and 3% of them had a patient die after surgery.
BBLs have the highest mortality rate, with one in 3,000 patients dying after receiving the surgery, according to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.
In addition to BBLs, liposuction and tummy tucks are also deadly plastic surgeries.
There is a vital heart artery near the butt, which makes BBLs so risky. Injecting excess fat into the desired location can cause the fat to enter the artery and block blood flow. Blockages to arteries are dangerous as they increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and death.
As cosmetic surgery has become more popular, the rate of deaths associated with the procedure has increased, largely due to the promotion of the procedure by celebrities and social media users. Approximately 0.25% to 0.50% of cosmetic surgeries result in death according to a 2020 report.
The Brazilian butt lift can boost a person's self-confidence, especially in the digital age, but understanding the risks associated with the procedure is crucial.
In addition to a blocked artery, there is a risk of fat embolism with BBLs. When fat enters the bloodstream, this occurs. Fat will eventually block the lungs or block circulation as it travels through the blood. The awareness of fat embolism symptoms can make a difference if a BBL is still fresh in the mind of the recipient. A fat embolism usually causes dizziness, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing and weakness, according to the National Library of Medicine.
BBL patients may experience fat embolisms due to the fat being injected into or underneath their muscles. Having a BBL performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon can reduce this risk.
Depending on where you live and associated risks, a BBL can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $30,000, but some people are willing to take a chance on a “chop shop” if they want a cheaper BBL. Chop shops are clinics that tend to be unsanitary, and doctors are often unlicensed and inexperienced.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is BBL and what is the death rate associated with it?
BBL stands for Brazilian Butt Lift, which is a cosmetic surgery procedure that involves the transfer of fat from other areas of the body to the buttocks. The death rate associated with BBL varies depending on the source, but some studies have reported a death rate of up to 1 in 3,000 procedures.
What are the main causes of death associated with BBL procedures?
The main causes of death associated with BBL procedures are pulmonary embolism and fat embolism. Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein and travels to the lungs, while fat embolism occurs when fat enters the bloodstream and travels to other parts of the body.
Are there any risk factors that increase the likelihood of death associated with BBL procedures?
Yes, there are several risk factors that increase the likelihood of death associated with BBL procedures. These include obesity, smoking, and a history of blood clots. Additionally, patients who undergo multiple procedures at the same time or who have a large amount of fat transferred are at a higher risk of complications.
Can the death rate associated with BBL procedures be reduced?
The death rate associated with BBL procedures can be reduced by choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon, following pre- and post-operative instructions, and being honest about any health conditions or medications. Additionally, patients should avoid smoking and excessive weight gain before and after the procedure.
Are there any alternative procedures to BBL with lower death rate?
liposuction is a alternative procedure that has a lower death rate compared to BBL. Liposuction is a procedure that removes fat from the body using a hollow metal tube and suction. However, it is important to consult with a plastic surgeon to determine which procedure is best for you.
How can I find a qualified and experienced surgeon for my BBL procedure?
To find a qualified and experienced surgeon for your BBL procedure, you should check the surgeon's qualifications, including their education, training, and certification. You should also look for a surgeon who has experience performing BBL procedures and ask to see before-and-after photos of their patients. Additionally, you should ask the surgeon about their complication and death rate.
