Tag Gabbay Plastic Surgery

A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a very popular cosmetic procedure that enhances the appearance of the buttocks. It can improve your butt’s size and shape without implants. Rather, your surgeon will transfer fat from other parts of your body—most often, your hips, lower back, abdomen, or thighs—to your buttocks. The surgeon will then strategically inject the removed fat into your buttocks to enhance its size and shape. A skilled surgeon can provide amazing BBL results safely and effectively, but you can ensure the very best results by taking steps to prepare for the procedure. Below you will find helpful information on how to prepare for a Brazilian butt lift.

How to Prepare for a Brazilian Butt Lift

Deciding to get a Brazilian butt lift is exciting. Many people are unhappy with the size and shape of their butt, but a BBL can enhance your buttocks and boost your self-confidence. How you spend the time leading up to your BBL will have a major impact on your results. As you navigate the process, consider the following information to ensure an effortless experience.

Schedule a Consultation

The first step in moving forward with a BBL is setting up a consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon. Be sure to only consider plastic surgeons who are board-certified and experienced in the procedure. Choosing a highly qualified surgeon will ensure your health and safety throughout the entire process. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will evaluate your health, discuss your aesthetic goals, and explain the procedure. You can and should ask any questions you have during this appointment.

Candidates for the procedure should be in good overall health. Good health is necessary prior to surgery to ensure the success of your procedure and the longevity of your results for years to come. Prospective patients should also have realistic expectations going into the operation. Because plastic surgery involves a fat transfer from your own body, you should be near your goal weight before you undergo the process. Once your surgeon has determined you are a good candidate, you can move forward with scheduling the procedure.

Before Your Brazilian Butt Lift

There are several measures you should take before your BBL surgery. Implement the following as you get closer to your surgery date. These practices are necessary to ensure that you are healthy and prepared for the surgery and recovery period.

Lifestyle Habits

Your health prior to the surgery will impact your health both during and after the procedure. Being as healthy as possible before the procedure is critical. Be sure to eat a balanced diet filled with nutrient-dense foods. Specifically, focus on whole foods rich in vitamins and minerals. In addition to eating a healthy diet, drink lots of water. Staying hydrated is beneficial for your overall health.

Incorporate exercise into your routine. It is recommended that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week.  The exercise you engage in can be anything from walking to exercise classes; just make sure you find something you like so you will stick to it. It is also important to avoid smoking and alcohol as both can increase your risk for complications during the procedure and your healing afterward. If you do not quit both entirely, it is advisable to stop at least 4 weeks in advance of your procedure. Be sure to let your surgeon know what substances you regularly use. They need to have this information to ensure they do not give you anything that will negatively interact with those substances. 

Manage Your Weight

The plastic surgeon will advise you on the ideal weight you should achieve before surgery. Depending on your goals, they may recommend that you gain or lose weight prior to your operation. If your doctor does not recommend any changes to your weight, maintain your weight as best as possible. Weigh yourself regularly to be sure you are on track.

Managing your weight will involve a combination of diet and exercise. Nevertheless, keep in mind that other factors can impact your weight. Cortisol, for instance, is a stress hormone that can impact your weight goals. Focus on managing your stress levels to keep your cortisol at a healthy level. It is also important to get enough rest. Focus on getting at least 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night. Combining these and other healthy lifestyle habits is crucial to the success of your BBL.

Prepare Your Body

Maintaining your weight and living a healthy lifestyle well in advance of your surgery will benefit your overall wellness and your BBL procedure. In the weeks immediately before your surgery, there are additional steps you can take to prepare your body.

One action you can take to prepare your body for surgery is to increase your protein intake. One to two weeks before surgery, consume between 65 to 100 grams of protein each day. Proteins are necessary for tissue repair and recovery. Thus, increasing your protein intake will ensure a much smoother recovery process. It can also help boost your immune system. Pay close attention to your diet in the weeks before your surgery.

Care For Your Skin

The healthier your skin is going into surgery, the better. Surgery will cause some trauma to the skin, and caring for it in advance can help with the healing process. It is also helpful for creating a suitable environment for the fat transfer. Healthy skin will reduce the risk and appearance of hyperpigmentation and scarring post-surgery. Being proactive about your skincare before your surgery is key.

Hydrating is one of the best and easiest ways to improve the health of your skin. Drink at least eight glasses of water each day. In addition to hydrating, exfoliate your skin to remove dead cells. Exfoliating will be especially beneficial in the areas where the liposuction and fat transfer will be performed. Using products that boost collagen and hydrate your skin after exfoliating is another helpful tip. Use at least SPF 30 daily to avoid sun damage. Talk with your surgeon about any other recommendations they have in regard to skincare. 

Plan For Your Recovery

How you spend your recovery period will have a significant impact on the quality of your results. Most surgeons recommend taking at least two to three weeks off after a Brazilian butt lift. Make sure to rest as much as possible so you can expedite your recovery.

Talk with friends and family before your surgery to ask for help post-surgery. Having people to physically support you after surgery is necessary for optimal recovery. Specifically, you will need someone to drive you home and care for you for at least the first week. This care will include helping you take your prescribed medications and preparing your meals. Rest is the most important priority when you get out of surgery. Enlist and schedule as much help from friends and family as possible.

Organize Recovery Supplies

Recovering from a BBL takes time and patience. In addition to taking time off work and getting help from trusted friends and family, stock up on what you need beforehand. Be sure to prepare recovery supplies—such as compression garments, pillows, and medication—and a space in your home where you will be able to comfortably rest afterward. Make sure that your recovery area is clean and comfortable.

It is also advisable to prepare meals in advance. Healthy meals filled with lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can strengthen you during the recovery process. You will be staying home for a while during the beginning of the recovery process. Plan what you want to watch or read so you have entertainment ready. Doing all of the preparation in advance can make the recovery process a stress-free experience.

Follow Your Surgeon’s Pre-Operative Instructions

Your surgeon will provide you with instructions before surgery. You may get this information at the consultation or a later date. Be sure to read the instructions carefully and in their entirety. Each surgical procedure is unique, so it is important to ask questions if you are unclear about anything. 

You will likely need to adjust your current medications. Surgeons commonly advise patients to avoid taking blood thinners and herbal supplements prior to surgery. That said, always be sure to speak with your doctor before stopping any of your prescribed medications. In the time immediately before surgery, you will likely need to fast. Follow your surgeon’s instructions on when to stop eating and drinking. Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shower before surgery.

The Night Before and Day Of Surgery

Prepare for the day of the surgery the night before. In particular, you should set out the clothes you will wear on your way to surgery, prepare a bag of anything you may want or need for the next day, and confirm your check-in time and the address of the surgical location. If possible, have the person driving you to the appointment stay the night with you. Taking these steps ahead of time can relieve a lot of stress and ensure you get to your appointment on time. Be sure to go to bed early. A good night’s rest will do wonders before a cosmetic procedure.

The day of the procedure can be stressful, so be sure to wake up with enough time to avoid rushing and arrive on time for your surgery. Aim to arrive at least 15 minutes early, as you will need to check in and complete paperwork. 

Brazilian Butt Lift Procedure

If you are interested in a BBL, contact the team at Gabbay Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation!

A thigh lift is a plastic surgery procedure designed to improve the appearance of the thighs and upper legs. For patients who are self-conscious about this part of their body, a thigh lift has the potential to give them a markedly improved appearance and sense of confidence. However, there are an unfortunate number of misconceptions and myths about this procedure that can contribute to patients not fully understanding the procedure that they are about to engage in. In other cases, it can deter a patient from engaging with the procedure at all. If you are interested in the benefits of a thigh lift but are worried about some of the information you have heard about it, take a look at this article that works at dismantling myths about thigh lifts.

What is a Thigh Lift?

A thigh lift is a type of cosmetic surgery that can help to improve the appearance of one’s thighs. Often, this procedure is employed to remove excessive amounts of skin and fat from this area of the body. The results deliver a more contoured and toned appearance to the thighs.

Dismantling Myths About Thigh Lifts 

A thigh lift can be a wonderful and life-affirming procedure for those for whom it works. However, there are some myths surrounding this procedure that do not serve either doctor or patient as they navigate the complexities of surgery. Dispelling these myths can help you feel more confident as you move forward with your procedure.

Myth 1: Thigh Lifts Leave Large and Noticeable Scars

One common myth surrounding thigh lifts is that they tend to create large and noticeable amounts of scarring on a patient. In fact, the most contemporary surgical techniques have progressed to the point that they are able to leave minimal amounts of scarring throughout the procedure.

Myth 2: Only Women Receive Thigh Lifts

Another pernicious myth surrounding this procedure is that a thigh lift is a procedure that is only ever sought after by women. The reality is that a thigh lift can benefit any individual looking to improve the appearance of their thighs, regardless of their gender.

Myth 3: Thigh Lift Recovery is Painful

Thigh lifts entail an average amount of discomfort in their recovery periods in relation to surgery of comparable scope. Most patients will find that they are finished with the most uncomfortable period of their recovery period within a few weeks. You can help facilitate this by following your physician’s instructions regarding your recovery period very closely.

Myth 4: Thigh Lifts Do Not Offer Long-lasting Results

The results from a thigh lift procedure can last for a very long time and may last for life if paired with a reasonable level of exercise and healthy living. Most patients who see their results fade more quickly do so because they do not couple their procedure with a healthy lifestyle.

Myth 5: You Cannot Walk Normally After a Thigh Lift

This is true for some patients, but this situation will likely only be the case for a few days. Most patients will find that they are fully mobile and can move about normally within a couple of days from their initial procedure. Special medical circumstances may extend this period, so talk with your doctor if you have particular concerns.

Myth 6: Thigh Lifts Are Only Cosmetic

There is a common misconception that thigh lifts are performed only for cosmetic benefits and do not offer a patient any other type of advantage. Although the aesthetic benefits of a thigh lift are strong, there are a number of other gifts that this procedure can impart. Many patients end up with a stronger sense of confidence, less skin chafing, and, on average, a stronger sense of mobility. These benefits reach into the psychological and lifestyle sectors of one’s life.

Myth 7: Any Plastic Surgeon Can Perform a Thigh Lift

In fact, a thigh lift is best left in the hands of a specialist who has performed the procedure successfully numerous times. When researching the doctor with whom you are thinking of performing your procedure, make sure to look into their surgical history and check to see that they have a strong record of performing the procedure successfully.

Myth 8: Thigh Lifts Are for Young People

A thigh lift can benefit a person of any age, so long as they are healthy enough to endure some of the stressors that come paired with receiving an invasive surgery. The primary factors that influence a candidate’s eligibility for a thigh lift are not their age but rather the health of their skin and their general health profile.

Myth 9: Thigh Lifts Only Help People Trying to Lose Weight

The overall purpose of a thigh lift is not actually to help an individual lose weight, although this may be a benefit that some patients experience. Rather, a thigh lift aims to reshape and sculpt the thighs to make them look better. This involves adjusting the skin and fat of the thighs into a different form.

Myth 10: Thigh Lifts Are For Individuals Who Have Experienced Dramatic Weight Loss

These individuals make up a significant number of the patients who come seeking thigh lifts. This is due to the fact that losing significant amounts of weight can result in warping and stretch marks on the thighs, which a thigh lift can help to readjust into a more pleasing form. However, these types of issues can affect anyone, regardless of whether or not they have recently lost significant amounts of weight. Thigh lifts can be a valuable tool for anyone looking to adjust the appearance of their thighs.

Benefits of a Thigh Lift 

There are many different benefits of receiving a thigh lift, which is a procedure that can positively impact the appearance of one’s thighs in a number of different ways. Some of the common issues that can be addressed with a thigh lift include:

• Rashes
• Chafing
• Sagging skin
• Discoloration
• Cellulite and lumpy skin
• Poor skin tone
• Loss of elasticity

Many patients report a higher overall sense of confidence in their appearance following a thigh lift procedure. In this way, the benefits of the procedure can spill over from just simply the target area of the surgery.

Who Is a Good Candidate For a Thigh Lift? 

Most healthy patients who are interested in receiving a thigh lift will find themselves qualified to receive treatment. Some of the qualities that your physician will look for include: 

• Non-smoker
• No severe underlying health conditions
• No health conditions that would complicate one’s recovery
• Having maintained a healthy weight for about a year prior to surgery

In addition, your physician will provide an overview of your general health profile and physical fitness before they approve treatment for you.

What Occurs During a Thigh Lift?

There are several steps that you can expect to experience as you proceed through the thigh lift process. In general, the steps of a thigh lift look something like this:

• Your physician will make incision lines on the thighs to indicate where the cuts of the surgery will take place.
• Your anesthesiologist will administer general anesthesia to you so you lose consciousness during the procedure.
• Your surgeon will make an incision in the groin area. Depending on the patient, this incision may extend around the back of the thighs and down towards the knees.
• Your surgeon begins to remove fat, reposition muscles, and tissues, and trim away excess skin during the thigh lift procedure.
• Sutures are applied to help secure the new shape of the thighs.
• Stitches are utilized to close all incisions and prepare the area for the healing and recovery period post-surgery.

A thigh lift will typically take about two hours to complete. After your procedure is complete, you will enter the recovery period.

After Your Surgery

Following the completion of your surgery, you will be moved into a recovery area until you awaken from general anesthesia. Depending on your state, you will either spend the night in the hospital or be released from the hospital to head home that same day. 

Your physician will give you a set of guidelines to follow to maximize your recovery period and ensure that you have the knowledge required to safeguard your results. In general, you can expect to need plenty of rest and avoid engaging in any overly strenuous physical activities for the first few days following your procedure.

You will likely experience modest pain and discomfort during this recovery period. Your thighs may feel irritated and sore. This is considered a normal effect of the procedure. However, you should keep note if you experience any of the following risks and side effects:

• Bleeding
• Odd skin sensations
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Infection
• Numbness
• Pour wound healing
• Swelling
• Seroma

The Best in LA

Dr. Joubin Gabbay is a fellowship-trained surgeon who specializes in a number of popular plastic surgery procedures. If you are interested in a thigh lift but are unsure if it is for you, contact Dr. Gabbay today to set up an appointment to discuss the benefits of this procedure.