What Determines Butt Shape and Size?
Butt shape and size is determined by your skeletal structure and how your body stores fat, and genetics play an important role in both of these characteristics.
While healthy eating and regular exercise can offer improvements, many men and women live with ‘flat’ buttocks. BBL helps overcome genetics by enhancing the curves of your lower body. A secondary benefit of the procedure is reducing fat deposits elsewhere on your body, such as your hips, thighs, or stomach.
What is a Brazilian Butt Lift?
BBL surgery continues to grow in popularity as a low-risk surgery that produces natural-looking, long-lasting results.
Schedule onlineThe surgery originated in Rio de Janeiro, and over 24,000 BBL procedures are performed every year in the United States.
Also known as a gluteoplasty, BBL is a preferred method for reshaping the buttocks with fat transfers. Although it is possible to use implants for a butt lift, BBL surgery is usually the preferred option as it is less invasive, and offers more rounded, natural results.

BBL offers the dual benefits of removing fat from unwanted areas, such as the hips, stomach, waist, and love handles. Very little fat is required for the BBL. If you are happy with these areas of your body, the removal of fat will not make any noticeable difference. Once harvested, the body fat is injected into the buttock area to refine and reshape the posterior. The new fat adds shape, contour, and lift to the buttocks.
Because the procedure uses your body’s own fat stores as a filler, the results are long-lasting, lasting up to seven years.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Brazilian Butt Lift Surgery
Pros
- Precise injections of fat produce natural-looking results
- More roundness compared to silicone buttock implants
- Addresses sagging and shapelessness associated with aging
- Fat harvesting with liposuction may contour the waist, thighs, stomach, and other areas of your body
- Improves balance and proportions of the body
- Low risk of infection when the procedure is done correctly
- Uses your own fat, so there is no risk of allergic reaction or rejection by the body
- Minimal scarring from the liposuction for harvesting, usually in places that are easily hidden
- Long-lasting results if weight is maintained
- High satisfaction rating
Cons
- Side effects may include infection, scarring, and pain
- There may be lumps under the skin at both the donor and graft site
- Potential deadly fat embolism in the heart or lungs
- May not give the intended results – the body may break down and absorb up to 40% of the injected fat
- Improper surgical techniques increase the risk of the surgery
- Sufficient fat stores in other areas of the body are required for harvesting
- Full recovery may take one month or longer
- Revision surgery may be needed to correct lumps, dents, slumping, and fat absorption
Brazilian Butt Lift FAQs
These are the most frequently asked questions about buttocks enhancement in New York, NY
Ask a question-
How long does a Brazilian Butt Lift last?
Depending on the individual, the results of a BBL are generally long-lasting. If your body absorbs the injected fat, the results may not be as noticeable or long-lasting. It may take one or two procedures to achieve the results you want. The fat cells that remain four months after your surgery are permanent.
You can improve the results of your BBL procedure by following the post-surgery instructions carefully. The area needs to heal completely. Maintain a healthy weight. Any gain or loss may affect the longevity of your BBL procedure.
BBL does not stop the natural aging process. Your buttocks may start to sag due to lost skin elasticity and shifts in body fat.
Your surgeon explains how to maintain the results of your BBL for as long as possible.
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What happens during Brazilian butt lift surgery?
BBL surgery can take two to four hours, depending on the technique that your surgeon uses and the degree of enhancement.
The surgeon starts by marking areas of your body for fat harvesting, as well as the general location of the fat injections. Photographs may be taken for a before-and-after comparison.
BBL surgery is performed under anesthesia. In some cases, it may be done with a local anesthesia if you need only a small amount of buttock enhancement.
The surgeon starts the procedure with liposuction to remove fat from the donor area of your body. Epinephrine, saltwater, and lidocaine is injected in the area to minimize bleeding and bruising. Small incisions are made in the skin, and a thin tube is inserted through the incision to harvest the fat.
The fat is purified to extract the healthiest cells for transfer, and the fat is put into syringes or vibrating cannula (a thin tube). The surgeon injects the processed fat into areas of the buttocks just below the surface of your skin into the subcutaneous layer above the fascia. A skillful surgeon ensures that specific areas are enhanced to create a rounded, full look. In most cases, between 3 and 5 injections are made to sculpt the buttocks. The fat is injected in layers.
A compression garment is placed around the area after the injections to hold the fat in place and reduce swelling and bleeding.
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Who is a good candidate for a Brazilian Butt Lift?
Your surgeon will take a medical history and do a physical examination to determine if BBL is a good option for you. In general, a good candidate is someone who is at a healthy weight, leads a healthy lifestyle (including regular exercise), and doesn’t have a history of certain medical conditions. Additionally, you need to have sufficient fat stores on your body for harvesting.
BBL is not recommended for men and women who have loose or sagging skin in the buttock area, or those who have excessively flat buttocks.
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How much recovery time is needed?
You will need to have someone drive you home after the surgery, and they should stay with you for the first 24 hours. Ideally, have someone stay with you for the first week after the procedure. You may need prescription pain medication, and you will not be able to drive.
Expect to experience moderate post-operative pain that feels similar to muscular soreness, especially when sitting.
Recovery after surgery takes approximately six weeks. During the first two weeks, you will need to avoid sitting and will need to sleep either on your side or stomach. You should avoid sleeping on your back for at least two months. Only sleep on your side if you are sure that you won’t roll over onto your back. Putting pillows behind your back and in front of your stomach can help you stay on your side while sleeping.
After a week or so, you will be able to start moving around comfortably. You should be able to return to work after two weeks. You should only start exercising after eight weeks if you have been cleared by your surgeon.
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Can you sit after BBL surgery?
Any pressure on the injected fat cells may affect the results of your BBL. The cells are vulnerable to shifting and dying. Blood vessels need to develop in the new cells to help them survive. Sitting may compress the area and prevent the development of the blood vessels. Avoid sitting and lying on your back for at least three weeks. During the fourth week, you can sit and lay on your back, but only when necessary.
For driving and other activities, you will need to be cleared by your surgeon. You may need to use a special donut-shaped pillow for a few weeks.
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When will the results be visible?
Your buttocks will look fuller immediately after a BBL. Some of the changes to size and shape are due to swelling. Expect to lose approximately 40% of the transferred fat cells. You may need revision surgery to replace the lost cells and refine the results of your BBL. Some asymmetry, as well as bumps and dents, should be expected, and this is another reason why you may need a second series of fat injections. After four to six months, you will see the full results of the procedure, and the fat cells are permanent.
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Should you gain or lose weight before the procedure?
This depends on your current weight and your ideal healthy body weight. If you are overweight, you may need to lose some pounds before you can have the surgery. In most cases, it helps to be your ideal weight or a few pounds over so you have sufficient fat deposits for harvesting. Keep in mind, though, that once you have the surgery, you will need to stay at a steady weight to preserve the results.
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How much does the surgery cost?
The cost of the BBL procedure varies significantly across [STATE], and it differs from person to person. The cost is based on several factors, such as your goals, the surgeon who performs the procedures, and other factors. On average, a BBL costs between $5,000 and $8,000 for surgeon fees and other fees, such as anesthesia, aftercare, and a hospital stay.
Do your research deciding to have a BBL. Choose a board-certified surgeon who specializes in the surgery. Your surgeon should be certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery for tummy, buttocks, and breast surgery. Avoid discounted BBL surgery, as this is often an indication that the surgeon may not have the required training, experience, and surgical facilities.
BBL is not covered by medical insurance because it is not considered medically necessary. Many cosmetic surgeons offer payment plans or financing.
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What are the risks?
BBL surgery has some of the highest incidences of post-op complications, such dents, lumps, trenches, slumps, and irregular contours. For this reason, it is generally considered higher risk than other cosmetic procedures. Most complications are due to improper techniques and safety precautions. All things considered, though, BBL is the safest way to alter the shape of your buttocks. The procedure uses your own fat, rather than silicone implants. There is very little scarring, and in most cases, it won’t be noticeable.
There are also concerns about the growing number of deaths due to pulmonary fat embolism. This involves fat cells entering the bloodstream, and blocking the flow of blood to the lungs. These cases were investigated and found to be related to fat cells being injected into the muscle tissue instead of the subcutaneous layer above the fascia. Fat injections into the buttocks are safe when the procedure is performed properly.
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What procedures can be done at the same time as a BBL?
A tummy tuck and breast augmentation are the most popular surgeries that can be combined with a BBL. This combination may be referred to as a Mommy Makeover. Combing procedures into a single surgical appointment has many benefits. The cost may be lower, and you only have a one recovery period. However, the recovery may be more complex when you have multiple procedures at the same time. Speak with your surgeon about the advantages and disadvantages of combining surgeries.
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Are there any alternatives to a Brazilian Butt Lift?
Butt augmentation is very popular, and BBL surgery isn’t the only option. Other popular butt augmentation procedures are:
- Silicone butt implants: This is a more invasive, higher risk surgery than a Brazilian butt lift. It involves the use of silicone implants. There is a long-term risk of implant displacement where the implants move out of place, resulting in the need for further surgery.
- Liposuction: This popular option involves removing excess fat from the buttocks to a rounder appearance. The procedure is focused on the removal of fat; therefore, it does not involve fat transfer that is used for a Brazilian butt lift.
- Butt lift or butt tuck: A butt lift (done from above), or a butt tuck (done from below) offers good results for patients who have lost a lot of weight and now have excessive sagging skin. The skin is surgically removed to create a smoother experience.
- Sculptra® butt lift: Sculptra® is a dermal filler that adds volume to the skin. It is most often used for anti-aging in the face to restore a more youthful look appearance. Sculptra® can be used to add volume to the buttock area.
- Emsculpt®: This non-surgical treatment uses electromagnetic energy to contract the muscles in your buttocks up to 20,000 times per minute for accelerated toning and firming.
There are some cases where silicone or hydrogel injections have been used for a butt lift. These procedures are usually administered by non-board-certified doctors and do not deliver the same results (although they are significantly cheaper). They should be avoided because they have serious side effects and a higher risk of complications, including death. Choose a board-certified cosmetic surgeon in New York, NY who specializes in buttocks augmentation surgery for your BBL procedure.
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Patient Testimonials
Read real reviews from the Anzolo community
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I honestly can’t say enough good things about Neinstein Plastic Surgery. From the moment I walked in, I felt calm, cared for, and completely supported. Every single person made me feel like part of the family — it’s rare to experience that kind of warmth and genuine care in a medical setting.
My pre-op nurse Rachelle was so kind and reassuring, helping me feel totally at ease before surgery. In recovery, Sharry was incredible — so gentle and comforting. The post-op team, Tara and Ashley, were amazing, always checking in and making sure I had everything I needed. My coordinator Bella made the entire process smooth, organized, stress-free, and took care of everything I needed. Becca my original coordinator helped me through really difficult family situation and postponed everything for me which took so much stress off. This is the TOP personal care you can find and I didn’t even know was existed.
What really touched my heart was how they cared for my mom while she waited for me so worried during surgery — Mitch even brought her lunch and made sure she was comfortable. That’s the kind of thoughtful, family-level care that sets this practice apart.
Dr. Neinstein’s daily visits and personal check-ins were the things I waited for the most and showed how deeply he cares about his patients. There is no one better than him! He is #1 TT surgeon in America but also such a kind soul.
I have to also mention nurse Tori who was so sweet, patient, and caring every step of the way and gave me the best food rec.
This entire experience felt like being surrounded by family who truly want the best for me. I’m beyond grateful to each and every person at Neinstein Plastic Surgery — you made me feel safe, loved, and cared for when I was most vulnerable and needed it the most.
Orel Ayal on Chris Funderburk, Dr via Google Reviews
Dr. Neinstein is truly the king of transformation! His artistry, compassion, and personal follow-ups made my experience flawless. The entire team: Bella, Mitch, Nicolette, Dr. Markovic, Sherry, Ashley, and Tara, were caring, professional, and genuinely kind. Even the lovely girls at the front desk were so welcoming and sweet! I felt supported every step of the way and couldn’t be more grateful.
Dr. Neinstein handled everything with such precision, expertise, and genuine care. He personally visited me several times after surgery to check on my progress and even called and sent messages to make sure I was doing well, which meant the world to me.
Bella was incredible at organizing everything and making my surgery happen on short notice. She was so patient, attentive, and reassuring throughout the entire process, truly the heart that keeps everything running smoothly.
Mitch made sure the financial process was smooth, transparent, and stress-free. He was so kind, responsive, and thoughtful in making everything easy and clear, which gave me complete peace of mind.
Nurse Nicolette made me feel calm and fully prepared before surgery, walking me through every detail.
Dr. Markovic was so kind and reassuring, when I told her I was nervous about having the IV on the back of my wrist and preferred it in my inner elbow, she smiled and said, “Done, that’s where we’ll place it.” That small act of care made all the difference.
Nurse Sherry was my guardian post-op. She was there when I woke up after anesthesia, checked my vitals, made sure I was comfortable, and later helped the radiant nurse take me safely to the hotel, ensuring everything was perfect.
Nurse Ashley followed up daily on my incision and even visited me at the hotel to check on my healing. Her gentle nature and genuine warmth made me feel so cared for, she truly brightened my recovery.
And last but definitely not least, Nurse Tara, who made sure I left New York glowing! She arranged my skin boosters, Botox, and laser treatments before my flight home, adding the perfect finishing touch to my experience. Even though she was fully booked the weekend my sister was visiting, she still made the effort to come over for a patient pop-in and treated my sister, who was in urgent need of Botox before traveling, truly going above and beyond.
From start to finish, I felt cared for, supported, and genuinely valued. I couldn’t recommend Dr. Neinstein and his entire team enough, their dedication, kindness, and attention to every detail truly set them apart. 🤍🤍🤍
Foosha on Chris Funderburk, Dr via Google Reviews
Dr. Ryan Neinstein is an exceptional plastic surgeon who cares about his patients. I am a mom of four who had diastasis recti and loose skin from having large babies and needed an extended tummy tuck. He performed and extended tummy tuck with lipo 360 and used no drains for my procedure.
After years of searching I knew once I had the initial consultation with him this was the right surgeon. Bella his coordinator goes above and beyond to make sure you have all the tools you need to be prepared. His expertise and compassionate approach made me feel comfortable. He thoroughly explained the procedure, addressing all of my concerns.
The surgery itself was a seamless experience thanks to Dr. Neinstein and the attentive care of his team. They have the exparel shot, which really helps with having little to no pain the first few days after surgery. Nurses Ashley and Tara had pre op phone calls with me weeks leading up to my surgery and still check up on me daily answering my texts with any questions I have. My recovery Nurses Tori and Maggie were the sweetest, they were both so caring they made the initial wake up so comfortable. They brought me to my hotel across the street and set up my room so that once I got there I would feel at ease. The aftercare nursing with Radiant Recovery helped make my first few days after surgery comfortable and worry free.
The morning after surgery Dr Neinstein came to my hotel to check up on how I was doing. While he was out of town for a convention Nurse Ashley came and so did Dr. Funderburk to check up on me. The NPS practice is the best. I am 4 weeks out and I am so happy with the results. I am profoundly grateful for his expertise and highly recommend him to anyone considering this type of surgery dealing with post pregnancy abdominal issues. It truly is "Neinstein or Nowhere."
jessica V on Chris Funderburk, Dr via Google Reviews
I don’t even know where to begin. I had a breast lift and fat transfer whilst downsizing my implants with Dr Anna Steve a year ago. When I say hands of an angel I mean it. Dr Anna is an artist at what she does and has been available to me from start to finish and beyond. She has the softest energy that is so comforting throughout the entire process beginning at the pre ops—of which she welcomed me for multiple to make sure I was getting exactly what I wanted—to surgery day where she held my hand going under to the music of my choice (Man! I feel like a woman by Shania) and throughout my entire recovery process. Her motherly energy she has for own children is extended to you no matter your age and you can feel her love and care for you and her work. When I say I CANT SEE MY SCARS!! I mean I can’t see my scars. I was terrified to do a breast lift because I was worried about the scaring as I’ve seen some cases elsewhere I would not have wanted for myself. But looking in a mirror, I cannot see my anchor scars AT. ALL. I’ve healed phenomenally. Earlier in the healing process I had a tiny t juncture breakdown which she told me could happen before surgery for a variety of reasons and that it could easily be addressed if it happened which it was immediately and has since healed fine. With that in mind I still have healed flawlessly. Everything was customized to my liking, placement of the nipple, size of implant, fat grafting, everything has been a dream and I am filled with gratitude for Dr Anna, the entire breast team and everyone at Neinstein Plastic surgery. I fear I will never have a better experience and they have ruined me for every other doctor in the future due to their level of care. We are talking texts in the middle of the middle of the night, checking on me constantly, responding to any questions immediately, the list goes on and on. Dr Neinstein himself has checked up on me and I’m not even his patient. He’s even helped me post operatively after another surgery with someone else who was less than communicative. The entire team goes above and beyond and I could not recommend them or Dr Anna Steve enough. An angel from the heavens I tell you. So grateful to have been gifted with her talent and expertise for the rest of time. Best boobs EVER. Love you Dr Anna!! 💗💗
Nykita Joy on Chris Funderburk, Dr via Google Reviews