We cannot deny the influence pop culture has on the increase in demand for BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift). From the curvy figures of celebrities gracing our screens to the glossy images in fashion magazines, the allure of an enhanced silhouette has never been more prominent. Once a niche procedure, BBL has rapidly become one of the most sought-after trends in cosmetic surgery. According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS), its popularity is soaring, with a 20% year-on-year increase, making it the fastest-growing type of cosmetic surgery.
But behind the glamorized images lies a complex reality; a procedure that carries significant risks and potential long-term consequences. As the desire for perfection pushes many toward the operating table, it’s crucial to explore the factors driving this craze and the often-overlooked dangers that accompany it. Understanding the full picture is essential whether you’re considering the procedure or simply curious about its growing popularity.
What is BBL?
The Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a surgical procedure that involves removing fat from one part of the body, such as the abdomen or thighs, and injecting it into the buttocks to enhance their shape and size. This procedure is not just about adding volume; it’s about sculpting the body for a more desirable silhouette.
Unlike traditional butt implants, BBL uses the patient’s fat, which is seen as a more natural alternative to synthetic fillers or silicone implants.
Where did the obsession for a full figure start?
Some people argue that colonialism and the fetishization of the African woman’s body are to be blamed for the popularity of BBL citing the case of the South African woman Sarah Baartman who was extremely full-figured.
Sarah was enslaved and taken to Europe, where her body was put on display and exhibited as a freak show attraction for paying audiences. Her autobiographer Rachel Holmes, said many desired to have the kind of big bum she had naturally. Sarah died in 1815, her body was exploited so much that her brain, skeleton, and sexual organs remained on display in a Paris museum until 1974.
Why has this procedure become popular?
Even though, the surge in BBL’s popularity can be traced back to the early 2000s, coinciding with the rise of social media and the celebration of hourglass figures in pop culture. The procedure dates back to 1960 when a surgeon named Ivo Pitanguy was the first person to perfect the Brazillian Butt Lift procedure. Since then, celebrities like Kim Kardashian and Nicki Minaj, have played pivotal roles in this trend, flaunting their voluptuous figures and setting a new standard of beauty emphasizing a tiny waist, fuller hips, and a round behind.
The rise of the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) appears to have no boundaries with high global interest in this popular cosmetic procedure. In Africa, South Africa is known for having a significant cosmetic surgery industry, including procedures like BBL due to its developed medical tourism sector. Other African countries such as Egypt and Kenya seem to also have a growing interest in cosmetic procedures due to increasing urbanization and Western beauty standards influencing local preferences. Some African celebrities/public figures who have been open about undergoing this cosmetic procedure include Kenyan socialite Vera Sidika, South African reality TV star Faith Nketsi, and prominent Nigerian media personality Toke Makiniwa.
It is astonishing to consider that African women, whose natural body shapes were once critiqued and marginalized by the fashion industry, are now spending millions to attain the very curves that were historically theirs to begin with. The notion that certain body types can suddenly become trendy reflects a deep inconsistency in how society values and commodifies women’s bodies. The rise of the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) appears to have no boundaries with high global interest in this popular cosmetic procedure.
In Africa, South Africa is known for having a significant cosmetic surgery industry, including procedures like BBL due to its developed medical tourism sector. Other African countries such as Egypt and Kenya seem to also have a growing interest in cosmetic procedures due to increasing urbanization and Western beauty standards influencing local preferences. Some African celebrities/public figures who have been open about undergoing this cosmetic procedure include Kenyan socialite Vera Sidika, South African reality TV star Faith Nketsi, and prominent Nigerian media personality Toke Makiniwa.
Risks of a Brazilian butt lift
No cosmetic procedure is without risk, but Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBL) are particularly notorious for their high complication rates and even fatalities, making headlines regularly. In fact, BBL is regarded as one of the most dangerous cosmetic surgeries, with a mortality rate significantly higher than many other common cosmetic surgeries. Here are four significant risks associated with BBL:
Fat embolism
One of the most critical and life-threatening risks of a BBL is fat embolism, which occurs when fat is unintentionally injected into large veins or arteries and then travels to the lungs, heart, or brain. This can cause a blockage that is often fatal. Surgeons must be exceptionally skilled to avoid this complication, but even in the best hands, the risk cannot be entirely eliminated.
Seroma and hematoma
Seromas (pockets of fluid) and hematomas (pockets of blood) are common complications after BBL surgery that can increase the risk of infection. These can occur at the site of fat removal or injection and may cause swelling, pain, and discomfort. In some cases, they may require draining or additional surgery to resolve.
Infection
Like any surgical procedure, BBL carries the risk of infection. The liposuction sites and the areas where the fat is injected can become infected, leading to complications that may require additional surgeries or prolonged medical treatment. Infections can range from mild to severe and can cause long-term damage to the affected tissues.
Blood Clots & tissue necrosis
Another serious risk associated with BBL procedures is the development of blood clots, which can lead to life-threatening complications like deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. During and after the surgery, improper blood flow due to extended periods of immobility or the pressure of injected fat can cause clots to form.
If these clots travel to vital organs such as the lungs, they can result in severe consequences, including death. Additionally, tissue necrosis (the death of cells in a specific area) is another significant risk. This occurs when the injected fat blocks blood vessels, cutting off the oxygen supply to the surrounding tissues.
The affected tissue begins to die, leading to severe infections, skin discoloration, and even the need for additional surgeries to remove the necrotic tissue. In some cases, tissue necrosis can cause disfigurement and long-term complications, further highlighting the dangers of this procedure.
The cost of curves
These risks highlight the importance of thorough research and consultation with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon before considering a BBL. Choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon with specialized expertise in fat transfer techniques is essential to minimize risks and achieve the desired outcome.
The surgeon’s experience plays a critical role in balancing the fine line between optimal results and potential complications. It’s crucial to thoroughly research and select a surgeon who not only possesses the necessary qualifications but also has a proven track record of successful procedures.
During consultations, discuss the surgeon’s strategy for achieving symmetry, their approach to managing complications if they arise, and what to expect throughout the recovery process. The top choices for cosmetic surgery in Kenya include Dr. Stasch Clinic in Riverside and Body by Design in Lavington, located off James Gichuru Road.
The average cost of a Brazilian Butt Lift procedure in Kenya ranges between KSh 550,000 and KSh 1,000,000. These prices can vary based on the clinic, surgeon’s experience, and any additional costs for aftercare and recovery. It’s important to consult directly with the clinics to get precise quotes tailored to your specific needs.
The line between self-acceptance & altering your appearance
In today’s society, where appearance often plays a significant role in how we are perceived and treated, it’s no surprise that many people turn to cosmetic procedures like BBL to enhance their looks. However, this raises one important question. Where do we draw the line between self-acceptance and the desire to alter our appearance? Self-acceptance involves embracing oneself as is, including imperfections. It is about recognizing that self-worth is not solely determined by physical appearance.
However, the pressure to conform to certain beauty standards can make it difficult to fully embrace self-acceptance. For some, the decision to undergo cosmetic surgery may be seen as an act of self-love, a way to feel more confident and comfortable in their own skin. On the other hand, the desire to alter one’s appearance can sometimes stem from societal pressures, insecurities, and the internalization of unrealistic beauty standards. When this is the case, cosmetic surgery may offer only temporary relief from deeper issues related to self-esteem and body image.
The danger therefore lies in the belief that achieving a certain look will lead to lasting happiness or acceptance, which is often not the case. Striking a balance between self-acceptance and the desire to enhance one’s appearance is a deeply personal journey. It requires thoughtful consideration of one’s motivations and the potential positive and negative impact of undergoing a procedure like BBL. Ultimately, the goal should be to make choices that align with one’s values and promote overall well-being, rather than simply conforming to external expectations.
