When Can You Sit after BBL Surgery?

One of the common questions that Brazilian butt lift (BBL) candidates ask their plastic surgeon is: when can I sit after BBL surgery? Experienced surgeons recommend not sitting or lying down on the butt for at least two weeks.

A BBL involves using your own fat to enhance butt volume and shape liposuction. Fat is removed from areas like the abdomen, flanks or thighs, purified, and then injected into the buttocks.

Why should you avoid sitting after this fat transfer to buttocks? BBL aims to successfully transplant fat cells from the fat donor site to the buttocks. Sitting directly on the area too soon puts pressure on the newly transferred fat cells and compromises their survival, which may affect the final results of the surgery.

Following the procedure, it’s important to avoid sitting directly on your buttocks for several weeks to allow the grafted fat cells to establish a blood supply.

Sitting Restrictions after BBL

To prevent killing any of the fat cells transferred, most surgeons recommend avoiding sitting directly on your buttocks for at least two to eight weeks – the time needed for fat cells to settle.

During the first 10 days, you will need to stand rather than sit and sleep on your stomach or sides. After a few weeks, you can use a specially designed pillow that allows you to sit without putting pressure on the buttocks. A BBL pillow elevates the buttocks when sitting and redirects pressure to the thighs and lower legs. By preventing direct contact with the surface of the buttocks, the pillow supports the healing process and helps maintain the shape and volume of the enhanced area. This pillow can also be used in a car.

It’s important to know how to use a BBL pillow correctly. Place it on a chair or hard surface with the lowest edge at the front, supporting the back of your thighs. Your buttocks should be off the pillow and not touching the seat. This allows for proper pressure relief and facilitates optimal healing of the transferred fat cells.

Sitting without the pillow is generally not recommended for about eight weeks. Around this time, you may also begin light exercise, but it’s important to avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities for at least a month. The buttock fat transfer healing process typically takes between two to three months.

Sleeping on your stomach or side is also recommended for the first few weeks to avoid putting pressure on the buttocks. Most patients will need to put off sleeping on their back for six weeks.

When Can You Return to Work?

Most patients can return to work about 10 to 14 days after their Brazilian Butt Lift, depending on the nature of their job. Sitting for long periods of time after BBL can stiffen, deform, and even cause resorption on the newly transplanted fat cells. If your work involves prolonged sitting, consider using a standing desk or taking regular standing breaks to avoid putting pressure on the healing area until you’ve fully recovered.

Follow Your Surgeon’s Instructions

Since every individual heals differently, recovery times for BBL treatment can vary from person to person. It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s guidance on managing pain and discomfort during the healing process. This may involve using support pillows, avoiding direct pressure on the buttocks, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Healthy habits-such as staying well-hydrated, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a stable weight-can go a long way in achieving optimal results and long-term success after your surgery.