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The American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery is the only board that sets standards, examines and certifies surgeons exclusively in facial plastic & reconstructive surgery.

What is Rhinoplasty?

Are you considering changing the shape of your nose or improving how you breathe? Rhinoplasty, often called a nose job, can help with both. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, this popular procedure saw a 6% increase in 2023, with a total of 47,307 surgeries performed. It focuses on both appearance and function. 

Whether you're looking to refine your nose's look or address breathing issues, understanding rhinoplasty can highlight its many benefits. This surgery is about achieving balance and enhancing how you feel about your nose.

What Is a Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Rhinoplasty, often known as a nose reshaping surgery, is designed to change the structure of your nose. It involves adjusting the bone and cartilage to enhance its appearance and improve nasal function. Whether you want a more balanced look or need help with nasal breathing issues, rhinoplasty addresses both aesthetics and functionality. 

How Rhinoplasty Is Planned

Every rhinoplasty procedure begins with a focus on achieving facial harmony and proportion. Your surgeon will take into account not just your specific goals but also your unique facial anatomy to design a surgical plan that best suits you.

This customized approach ensures that the changes made to your nose complement the overall structure of your face for a natural, balanced appearance.

Clear and open communication with your surgeon is essential throughout this process. By discussing your expectations and any concerns, you'll help create a surgical plan that aligns with your vision, ensuring you feel confident in the path forward.

What Are the Different Types of Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty includes various procedures tailored to different needs:

  • Cosmetic Rhinoplasty. This focuses on improving the nose's appearance to create better facial balance. It's often chosen for aesthetic reasons.
  • Functional Rhinoplasty. Designed to fix nasal function issues, this type addresses breathing difficulties and enhances nasal airflow.
  • Revision Rhinoplasty. If you're unhappy with a previous nose surgery, this procedure corrects or improves past results.
  • Ethnic Rhinoplasty. This respects and maintains ethnic features while enhancing the nose's appearance to fit personal preferences.
  • Nonsurgical Rhinoplasty. Instead of surgery, this uses fillers like hyaluronic acid to temporarily change the nose's shape without needing to go under the knife.

Surgical Approaches of Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty can be performed using different surgical methods based on a patient's desired changes:

  • Open Rhinoplasty. Open rhinoplasty involves using a small incision on the strip of skin between the nostrils, called the columella. This technique gives the surgeon a full view of the underlying structures, making it a good choice for more detailed or complex changes to the nose.
  • Closed Rhinoplasty. In this method, all incisions are hidden inside the nostrils, so there are no visible scars. This method works well for smaller adjustments and helps preserve the nose's natural shape.

Why Do People Get Rhinoplasty?

People choose rhinoplasty for several reasons, often driven by a mix of personal and functional desires:

  • Aesthetic Change. Many seek rhinoplasty to achieve their desired nose shape and size, enhancing facial balance and self-confidence.
  • Functional Improvement. Rhinoplasty can address breathing difficulties by reshaping the nasal passages, which may also enhance the sense of smell.
  • Reconstructive Needs. This surgery corrects deformities from injuries or congenital conditions, restoring the nose's function and appearance.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Not everyone is eligible for this procedure, and certain factors determine suitability, such as:

  • Good Health. You should be in good physical health and free from any serious medical conditions that might complicate the surgery or recovery process.
  • Mature Nasal Development. Rhinoplasty is typically recommended for adults and older teens whose nasal structures have fully developed for stable results.
  • Practical Expectations. It's important to have realistic expectations about what rhinoplasty can achieve. Discussing goals with the surgeon helps clarify potential outcomes.
  • Desire for Improvement. Ideal candidates have clear reasons for wanting to change their nose, whether for appearance or function.

What to Expect in a Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Rhinoplasty involves several stages, each carefully planned to guarantee a smooth experience:

Before Surgery

  • Consultations. You'll meet with the plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and assess your nasal structure. This step helps outline the plan for your nose surgery.
  • Pre-Operative Instructions. Before your procedure, you'll get clear instructions on how to get ready, including what to eat, what to avoid, and how to manage your medications, to help support a smooth and healthy recovery.

During Surgery

  • Outpatient Procedure. Rhinoplasty is usually done as an outpatient procedure, so you'll be able to return home the same day. You'll be under anesthesia to keep you comfortable throughout. During the surgery, the doctor makes careful adjustments to the bone and cartilage, shaping the nose to match both your cosmetic goals and breathing needs.
  • Surgical Techniques. The surgeon works to reshape the nose by adjusting the bone and cartilage, aiming to improve both its appearance and function to meet your specific goals.

Post-Surgery

  • Early Recovery. It's normal to feel some swelling and discomfort right after surgery, but these should subside within a few days. Following your surgeon’s aftercare instructions is important to ensure a smooth healing process.
  • Follow-Up Visits. Regular check-ins with your surgeon help monitor your recovery and provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions that may arise during the healing process.
  • Gradual Results. As the swelling goes down, you’ll begin to notice the final shape of your nose gradually emerge over the following weeks and months.

What Are the Risks and Benefits?

Potential Risks

  • Infection. Like any surgery, there’s a risk of infection. However, following your surgeon’s post-surgery care instructions closely can significantly reduce this risk.
  • Bleeding. Some bleeding may occur, and it's important to follow your surgeon's guidelines to manage this.
  • Secondary Interventions. Occasionally, additional surgery or revision rhinoplasty may be needed to achieve the desired results.
  • Scarring. While rare, visible scars may develop, especially in open rhinoplasty procedures, but they usually fade over time.

Benefits

  • Improved Appearance. Rhinoplasty can enhance facial balance, providing a more harmonious look and boosting self-confidence.
  • Enhanced Breathing Function. Correcting structural issues can lead to improved airflow and a better sense of smell.
  • Corrected Deformities. This surgery can address nasal deformities from injuries or congenital conditions, restoring both form and function.
  • Long-Lasting Results. The changes made during rhinoplasty are designed to be permanent, offering lasting satisfaction.

How Long Is the Recovery Period?

The recovery period for rhinoplasty varies, but here's a general timeline to help you understand what to expect:

  • First Few Days. You'll likely experience some swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes. Take a rest and avoid strenuous activities during this initial phase.
  • Two Weeks. Most swelling and bruising will significantly subside. You can start to see some of the improvements, but the nose is still healing weeks after surgery.
  • One Month. Many patients return to normal activities around this time, although care should still be taken to protect the nose from any potential injury.
  • Several Months. Full recovery can take several months. During this time, swelling continues to subside, and your nose's final shape becomes more defined.

What's the Difference Between Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty?

Rhinoplasty

Septoplasty

It focuses on enhancing the nose's external appearance to improve facial balance and aesthetics.

Focuses on the inside of the nose. It corrects a condition called a deviated septum, where the wall between the two sides of your nose is crooked. This can help you breathe better by improving the airflow through your nasal passages.

Involves reshaping the nasal bone and cartilage, which can alter the nose’s size, shape, and overall look.

The goal of septoplasty is to straighten or move the septum to a better position. This can help you breathe easier and fix problems caused by the crooked septum.

Considered a cosmetic surgery, it is often chosen to boost self-confidence by achieving the desired nose profile.

Seen as a functional surgery, it primarily addresses breathing problems and improves nasal function.

It may be combined with septoplasty to address both cosmetic and structural concerns for comprehensive nasal improvements.

Often performed alongside rhinoplasty to enhance both appearance and functionality in a single surgical session.

Does Insurance Pay for a Rhinoplasty?

This depends on the reason for the surgery. If the surgery is necessary for health reasons, like improving breathing by correcting a deviated septum, it may be covered by insurance. This type of procedure is considered medically necessary to fix structural problems or improve airflow.

However, if rhinoplasty is done for cosmetic reasons to change the appearance of your nose, it's usually not covered by insurance. You'll typically need to pay for this type of surgery out of pocket.

It's important to check with your insurance provider to understand what’s covered under your plan. This way, you can avoid unexpected costs and better plan for your procedure.

How to Choose a Rhinoplasty Surgeon?

Selecting the right rhinoplasty surgeon is an essential step to achieving the best results. Here are key factors to consider:

  • Certification. Make sure the surgeon is board-certified in Facial Plastic Surgery. This certification indicates that the surgeon has specialized training and adheres to high standards in nasal surgeries.
  • Track Record. Pick a plastic surgeon with a strong history of successful rhinoplasty procedures. Patient reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insight into their skills and how satisfied previous patients were with their results.
  • Initial Consultations. If possible, schedule consultations with potential surgeons to discuss your goals. During these visits, you can request to see before-and-after photos of their past surgeries. This allows you to assess their experience and see if their approach matches your vision for the procedure.
  • Communication. Choose a surgeon who takes the time to listen to your concerns, provides clear answers to your questions, and explains the surgical plan in detail. Open communication ensures you're well-informed and confident throughout the process.

Discover Confidence Through Expert Rhinoplasty

Whether you're aiming for a subtle refinement or a major change, rhinoplasty is a deeply personal decision, and so is the care you deserve. At Riverside Facial Plastic Surgery & Sinus Center, we focus on your unique goals, combining surgical expertise with a clear, straightforward approach. From your first consultation to your final results, you'll have a team that listens, guides, and respects your vision every step of the way.

Start with a conversation. Book your consultation today and discover what's possible when experience meets truly personalized care.

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What is Liposuction?

Do you have areas of fat that won’t go away, no matter how much you diet or exercise? 

Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure for removing stubborn fat deposits and enhancing your body’s natural shape. It remains one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the U.S., helping individuals refine their contours when lifestyle changes aren’t enough. In fact, in 2023, it was the most common cosmetic procedure in the U.S., with breast enlargement coming in second.

Let us discuss the essential details of liposuction procedures so that you can make smart choices about your body transformation straightforwardly and clearly.

What Is Liposuction Surgery?

Liposuction surgery helps shape and define your body by removing unwanted fatty tissue. During the procedure, a cosmetic surgeon uses a thin, hollow tube called a cannula to carefully suction out excess fat from specific areas like the abdomen, thighs, or arms.

Unlike traditional weight loss, which shrinks fat cells, liposuction eliminates them entirely. While this means the treated fat won’t return, it’s still possible to gain weight in other areas. That’s why it’s most effective for individuals who are already at or near their ideal weight but struggle with localized fat deposits

Purpose of Liposuction

Here are some common purposes for undergoing this procedure:

  • Sculpting Body Lines. Liposuction helps smooth and remove stubborn fat deposits to create more defined body lines.
  • Better Body Balance. By removing fat from certain areas, it can help make your body's proportions look more balanced.
  • Enhancing Cosmetic Surgeries. Liposuction often complements other surgeries, such as tummy tucks or breast reductions, to enhance overall results.
  • Addressing Weight Issues. It targets specific problem areas where fat is persistent, often where traditional weight loss methods fail.
  • Promoting Health. Reducing fat in certain regions can relieve pressure on the body, support better health habits and potentially reduce health risks.

Types of Liposuction Procedures

Here’s a closer look at the various liposuction techniques and what makes them unique:

Suction-Assisted Liposuction (SAL)

This is the most traditional form of liposuction. A cosmetic surgeon uses a thin, hollow tube called a cannula to remove fat manually. It's particularly effective for areas that need precision sculpting, like the thighs or stomach.

Tumescent Liposuction

In this procedure, a numbing solution that contains anesthetic and other medications is injected into the target area. This solution helps to minimize blood loss and makes fat easier to remove. It's a popular choice because it results in less bruising and a more comfortable experience during and after the procedure.

Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL)

UAL uses sound wave technology to break down fat cells, turning them into liquid, which makes them simpler to remove. This technique is particularly useful for fibrous areas, like the male chest or the upper back, where fat tends to be more challenging to extract.

Laser-Assisted Liposuction

Also known as SmartLipo, this technique uses laser beams to melt away fat cells. The liquefied fat is then suctioned out. Lasers not only ease fat removal but also stimulate collagen production, which can help tighten the skin after the procedure.

Power-Assisted Liposuction

This technique involves a special cannula that vibrates rapidly. The vibration helps break up fat cells quickly, allowing for easier suction and often resulting in a shorter procedure time. It's especially beneficial for removing larger volumes of fat.

Where on My Body Can I Get Liposuction?

Liposuction is a versatile procedure that can address stubborn fat in various parts of the body, giving you a more refined and proportionate appearance. Here are some common areas where liposuction is applied:

  • Abdomen. One of the most popular areas for liposuction, this procedure helps create a flatter and more defined stomach, eliminating persistent belly fat that doesn't respond to diet or exercise.
  • Thighs and Hips. Many choose to target the thighs and hips to slim down these areas, smoothing out any uneven or stubborn fat pockets that prevent a streamlined silhouette.
  • Arms. By removing excess fat, liposuction can transform the arms to look more toned and defined, which is especially beneficial during warmer months or for formal occasions where sleeveless attire is worn.
  • Chin and Neck. By targeting the area beneath the chin, liposuction can effectively eliminate a double chin, create clearer and more youthful facial lines, and enhance overall facial symmetry.
  • Calves and Ankles. Though less common, liposuction can also be performed on calves and ankles to give the lower legs a more proportionate look, addressing concerns of bulkiness in these areas.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate?

Liposuction isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. Understanding who makes an ideal candidate can help ensure that the procedure meets your goals effectively. Consider these criteria to determine if you’re a good match for liposuction:

  • Close to Normal Weight. Ideal candidates are typically within 30% of their ideal weight, as liposuction is best for contouring rather than significant weight loss.
  • Good Skin Elasticity. Those with firm, elastic skin tend to achieve better results, as the skin can adjust to new contours post-procedure, reducing the chances of loose skin.
  • Realistic Expectations. Candidates should have realistic goals, understanding that liposuction can enhance body shape but won't necessarily lead to major weight changes.
  • Persistent Fat Pockets. This procedure is especially effective for individuals with fat deposits that remain despite diet and exercise efforts.
  • Healthy Lifestyle Commitment. Maintaining a stable weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is important to preserve liposuction results and prolong benefits.

Preparing for Liposuction

Proper preparation is essential to achieve the best outcomes with liposuction. Here’s how you can get ready for the procedure:

Consultation With a Surgeon

Meet with a qualified cosmetic surgeon to discuss your goals, understand the procedure, and set realistic expectations. This step ensures that both you and the surgeon are aligned on what the liposuction process entails.

Medical History Review

It's important to review your medical history and identify any medications or conditions that might impact the surgery or recovery. Honest communication about your health is crucial for planning a safe procedure.

Adopt Healthy Habits

Start by making positive lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet and quitting smoking. These steps can promote better healing and reduce risks during and after surgery.

Plan for Post-Surgery Care

Arrange for transportation home after the procedure and ensure you have help available during your initial recovery days. This support can ease the transition and allow you to focus on healing.

Follow Medical Guidance

Follow any pre-operative instructions provided by your surgeon, which may include dietary restrictions or specific preparations, to ensure a smooth procedure.

The Liposuction Procedure

Understanding the liposuction procedure can ease apprehensions and help you know what to expect on the day of surgery. Here's how the process works:

Step 1: Anesthesia Administration

The procedure generally begins with administering anesthesia. Most liposuction surgeries use local anesthesia combined with intravenous sedation to provide comfort and minimize awareness during the process.

Step 2: Making Incisions

The surgeon makes small, strategically placed incisions in the areas targeted for fat removal. These incisions provide access to the liposuction cannula, a thin, hollow tube that facilitates fat extraction.

Step 3: Fat Dislodgment and Removal

Using the cannula, the surgeon gently breaks up fat cells in the targeted areas, which are then suctioned out of the body. This part of the procedure sculpts and smooths the body contours, targeting specific pockets of fat.

Step 4: Advanced Techniques

Some procedures incorporate technologies like Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction (UAL), where ultrasonic waves help liquefy the fat before removal, improving efficiency and often leading to more precise contouring.

Step 5: Incision Closure

After completing the fat removal, the surgeon carefully closes the incisions. The minimal incisions help reduce scarring and promote quicker recovery.

Recovery and Aftercare

Proper recovery and aftercare are essential for achieving the best results from liposuction. Here's what the post-operative phase generally involves:

Compression Garment Use

After the procedure, wearing a compression garment is essential. This garment helps minimize swelling and supports the healing tissues, promoting a smoother, more even contour as you recover.

Ample Rest

Initially, you should focus on rest. Take it easy for the first few days to allow your body the time it needs to heal. Gradually, as you feel comfortable, you can ease into your normal daily activities.

Avoiding Vigorous Exercise

Steer clear of strenuous activities and exercise until cleared by your surgeon. Resuming too soon can increase the risk of complications like blood clots and can also strain healing tissues.

Wound Care Instructions

Adhering to post-operative care instructions is vital to prevent infection and ensure proper healing. This includes keeping incisions clean and following any additional guidelines provided by your surgeon.

Follow-Up Appointments

Scheduled follow-ups with your surgeon are essential to monitoring your recovery. These appointments help track progress, address any concerns, and make any necessary adjustments to your recovery plan.

Results and Expectations

Understanding what to expect after liposuction can help align your goals with realistic outcomes. Here’s what you can anticipate:

  • Initial Swelling. Post-surgery swelling will temporarily obscure your results. As this swelling decreases, your body's new contours will become more apparent, revealing the changes made during the procedure.
  • Visible Final Results. As the inflammation subsides over a few months, you'll notice the full effect of the liposuction, showcasing the refined areas and improved body contours.
  • Importance of Weight Maintenance. To maintain your new body shape, it's important to keep your weight stable. A healthy diet and regular exercise assist in sustaining the benefits of liposuction.
  • Body Contouring vs. Weight Loss. Remember that liposuction is primarily for body contouring, not significant weight reduction. It enhances your natural shape but should not be seen as a substitute for overall weight loss.
  • Healthy Lifestyle Commitment. A commitment to a healthy lifestyle and attending regular check-ups ensures that your results remain optimal over time, allowing you to enjoy the full benefits of your transformed figure.

Risks and Potential Complications

Although liposuction is considered a safe procedure, it's important to be aware of the potential risks and complications. Here are some factors to consider:

  • Risk of Infection. While surgical protocols are stringent to minimize this risk, any procedure where incisions are made carries a small chance of infection. Following the provided wound care instructions helps reduce this likelihood.
  • Uneven Results. If there is a lack of muscle tone or significant differences in fat distribution, results might appear uneven. Proper consultation and realistic expectation-setting can minimize this issue.
  • Rare Complications. Although uncommon, complications such as blood clots or fluid imbalances may occur. Following post-surgery care instructions and attending follow-ups helps identify and manage these risks early.
  • Loose Skin. Those with lower skin elasticity might experience sagging or loose skin after fat removal. Additional procedures, like skin tightening, may be needed to address this concern.
  • Sensory Changes and Swelling. Temporary changes in skin sensation or prolonged swelling may happen as your body heals. These effects usually resolve over time with proper care.

Comparisons With Other Body Contouring Procedures

When considering body contouring, it's helpful to compare liposuction with non-surgical alternatives. Here’s a detailed comparison of the two methods across various aspects:

Aspect

Liposuction

Non-Surgical Procedures

Procedure Type

Invasive; involves surgery and suctioning of fat.

Non-invasive; works externally by cooling or heating fat cells.

Surgical Involvement

Requires incisions and anesthesia, typically with sedation.

No incisions are required; usually, no anesthesia is needed. Minimal downtime.

Fat Removal Capacity

Effective for removing larger volumes of fat in a single session.

Better suited for reducing small, specific areas of stubborn fat.

Longevity of Results

Removes fat cells permanently, offering long-term results when weight is maintained.

It can improve the appearance temporarily; fat cells may return without lifestyle changes.

Skin Considerations

May necessitate additional treatments for loose or dimpled skin post-surgery, depending on skin elasticity.

Does not address excess skin or improve poor skin elasticity directly.

Recovery and Healing

Involves a recovery period with initial swelling; requires adherence to post-op care.

Minimal to no recovery time, allowing a quick return to normal activities.

Achieve Your Ideal Contour—Let’s Talk Today

Liposuction can help you achieve the body shape you've always wanted, boosting your confidence in the process. At Riverside Facial Plastic Surgery & Sinus Center, our skilled surgeons are ready to guide you through your options for body contouring.

We offer personalized consultations to explain how liposuction can work for you and answer any questions you may have. Our team uses the latest techniques to help you get the results you’re looking for. Book a consultation with us now and take the first step toward a new you, feeling refreshed and confident.

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What Is a BBL Surgery?

The Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) has become one of the most sought-after cosmetic procedures for enhancing curves naturally. Unlike implants, this surgery uses your own fat to create a fuller, sculpted look. Whether you want to restore lost volume, improve proportions, or achieve a more contoured silhouette, a BBL offers a customized approach to body enhancement.

Cosmetic procedures are more popular than before, with over 15.8 million surgical aesthetic treatments performed globally in 2023. The demand for body contouring, including BBL surgery, continues to rise as people seek natural, long-lasting results. 

But is a BBL right for you? Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift) Surgery?

A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a specialized cosmetic procedure that enhances the shape and fullness of the buttocks using your body's own fat, and no implants are required. The process involves liposuction to remove fat from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks, which is then purified and strategically injected into the buttocks.

This approach not only enhances your curves but also sculpts the surrounding areas for a more balanced, proportionate look. Since it uses your own fat, a BBL offers a softer, more natural feel compared to implants while reducing the risk of rejection or complications associated with foreign materials.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate?

Not everyone is a good candidate for a Brazilian Butt Lift. Here’s what makes someone an ideal fit for this procedure:

  • Good Health. Since a BBL involves liposuction and fat transfer, being in good health reduces the risk of complications and promotes smoother healing. Any existing medical conditions should be well-managed before surgery.
  • Non-Smokers. Smoking affects blood circulation, which can compromise fat survival and slow recovery. If you smoke, your surgeon may require you to quit before and after the procedure.
  • Stable Weight. Gaining or losing significant weight after a BBL can impact your results. Ideal candidates have a stable weight they can maintain long-term.
  • Sufficient Fat Deposits. Since a BBL relies on your own fat, you need sufficient fat in areas like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks for liposuction. If you’re very lean, alternative options may need to be discussed.
  • Realistic Expectations. A BBL enhances your natural shape, and it won’t give you an exaggerated or “plastic” look. Understanding what’s achievable is key to satisfaction with your results.

Brazilian Butt Lift vs. Buttock Implants

If you’re considering buttock augmentation, you might be weighing the pros and cons of a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) versus buttock implants

Here’s how they compare:

Aspect

Brazilian Butt Lift

Buttock Implants

Material

Fat Transfer

Silicone Implants

Procedure

Uses body fat for a natural result

Involves synthetic implants

Incisions

Smaller incisions for liposuction

Larger incisions may be needed

Recovery

Moderate, with no implant-related issues

Maybe longer due to foreign materials

Feel

Natural appearance and texture

It can feel artificial or rigid

A BBL is ideal if you want a natural look and feel using your own fat while also contouring other areas of your body. On the other hand, implants may be the better choice if you don’t have enough fat for transfer but still desire fuller buttocks. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon will help determine the best option for your body and goals.

What Happens Before a Brazilian Butt Lift Procedure?

Preparing for a BBL procedure involves several important steps that help set the stage for a successful surgery and recovery. It's all about planning and making sure you're ready for the procedure:

Step 1. Consultation With a Plastic Surgeon

Meet with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and explore the options available. This is the time to ask questions and make sure you're comfortable with the planned approach.

Step 2. Medical Evaluations

Undergo any necessary medical evaluations to assess your overall health and readiness for surgery. These evaluations help identify any concerns that could impact the procedure or healing process.

Step 3. Lifestyle Changes

Make important lifestyle adjustments, such as quitting smoking and steering clear of certain medications that might interfere with the procedure or recovery.

Step 4. Post-Surgery Arrangements

Plan for transportation and any assistance you'll need after the surgery. Arrange for someone to drive you home and help support you during the initial recovery period.

Step 5. Pre-Surgery Guidelines

Follow the healthcare provider’s pre-surgery instructions closely. These guidelines often include dietary restrictions and other recommendations to facilitate a smooth procedure and healing process.

What Happens During a Brazilian Butt Lift Procedure?

The Brazilian Butt Lift procedure is a meticulous process involving several essential steps to enhance your curves effectively. Here's what you can expect during the surgery:

Step 1. Anesthesia Administration

A board-certified anesthesiologist administers anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. This helps you stay relaxed and free from pain during the surgery.

Step 2. Liposuction of Donor Areas

Fat is gently removed from donor areas such as the tummy or thighs through precise liposuction techniques. This step not only helps contour these areas but also provides the necessary fat for transfer.

Step 3. Purification of Harvested Fat

The removed fat is carefully processed and purified to ensure only healthy fat cells are readied for re-injection. This essential step enhances the success and longevity of the fat grafting.

Step 4. Fat Injection into Buttocks

The surgeon skillfully injects the purified fat into the subcutaneous part of the buttocks with precision, sculpting to achieve the desired volume and shape. This step is key to creating a natural, enhanced appearance.

Step 5. Closure and Recovery Aids

Once the fat is in place, any small incisions are closed with care. A compression garment is then applied to support the area, aid in swelling reduction, and enhance the recovery process.

What Happens After a Brazilian Butt Lift Procedure?

Post-surgery care is vital to ensure a smooth recovery and optimal results from your Brazilian Butt Lift. Here's what you need to keep in mind during the recovery phase:

Wearing a Compression Garment

As advised, a compression garment should be worn to help reduce swelling and support the healing of your new curves. It plays an important role in contouring your body and stabilizing the fat transfer.

Recovery Timeline

The recovery period generally spans several weeks. Initial recovery, allowing you to return to normal activities, takes about two weeks, but full healing requires more time.

Special Sitting Arrangements

It's important to avoid sitting directly on your buttocks for a specified period. Using a special pillow can help distribute pressure and protect the newly transferred fat.

Avoiding Strenuous Activities

Refrain from heavy lifting and difficult activities that could strain the affected areas, as these might disrupt the healing process and affect results.

Important Follow-Up Appointments

Regular follow-up visits with your surgeon are essential for monitoring progress and making necessary adjustments to your care plan. These appointments help track your healing and the success of the procedure.

What Are the Advantages of a Brazilian Butt Lift?

Here are some compelling advantages of this procedure:

  • Natural Curves. By using your fat for enhancement, the Brazilian Butt Lift creates natural, smooth curves that integrate seamlessly with your body. This approach provides an authentic look and feel, in contrast to the artificiality some may associate with implants.
  • Targeted Fat Reduction. The procedure simultaneously addresses other body areas by removing unwanted fat through liposuction. This results in a more sculpted appearance overall, eliminating excess skin and refining your body's contours.
  • Long-Lasting Outcomes. With a commitment to a healthy lifestyle and maintaining stable weight, the results of a Brazilian Butt Lift can be long-lasting. This dual benefit of added volume and fat loss supports maintaining a balanced physique over time.
  • Improved Skin Tone and Texture. In addition to volume enhancement, fat transfer can lead to better skin tone and texture. The regenerative properties of fat cells contribute to a smoother, more youthful skin appearance.

What Are the Risks or Complications of a Brazilian Butt Lift?

Like any surgical procedure, the Brazilian Butt Lift carries potential risks and complications, which should be considered and discussed with a qualified plastic surgeon. 

Here are some possible concerns:

  • Fat Necrosis. Some of the transferred fat may not establish a proper blood supply, leading to fat cell death, known as fat necrosis. To minimize this risk, it’s essential to follow post-surgery guidelines closely.
  • Infection Risk. Any surgical site can become infected if aftercare is neglected. Adhering to sterile practices and following the surgeon's advice on wound care helps prevent this complication.
  • Blood Clots. Although rare, blood clots can form post-surgery, necessitating immediate medical attention. Awareness of symptoms and early intervention are key.
  • Allergic Reactions. Some individuals might experience reactions to medications or anesthesia used during the procedure. Pre-operative discussions and assessments can help identify potential issues.
  • Asymmetry and Volume Loss. If the fat doesn’t integrate as expected, uneven results or varying volume loss might occur. Surgeons often plan for this, injecting a slight excess amount to accommodate natural absorption.

Schedule Your Consultation for Beautiful Curves

At Riverside Facial Plastic Surgery & Sinus Center, we specialize in enhancing natural curves with expert BBL procedures. Our board-certified team is here to answer your questions, discuss realistic outcomes, and guide you toward a result that fits your body and aesthetic goals.

Ready to take the next step? Schedule a consultation today to explore whether a BBL is right for you. Call us now or book an appointment online.

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Riverside Helps Open Stuffy Noses

New minimally invasive procedure at Riverside today to help open stuffy noses. Click to watch the video!

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Another Riverside Rhino

If you watched the video from today this was the final result

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Rhinoplasty Surgery Step 1

Take a look at our Surgery for Rhinoplasty

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A very “deviant” septum !

But after reconstructive septoplasty 2 days ago at Riverside the septum is now straight and airway wide open !!

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Revision (redo) Rhinoplasty

Most plastic surgeons agree one of the most demanding and technically difficult procedures in plastic surgery is the revision (redo) rhinoplasty. One week postop today after having her rhinoplasty done elsewhere in 1989. The tip...

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Sinus Technology Brings Patient from Africa to New Jersey

Monica Mensem traveled from Nigeria to Red Bank to have her chronic sinus condition treated by Dr. Frank. Read the full article.

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US News & World Report Relief For Chronic Sinusitis Sufferers

Chronic Sinusitis is one of the most common health ailments in the United States, afflicting almost 40 million people in the country per year. Fortunately, most sinus attacks, which can include headaches, post nasal drip and nasal congestion, will subside with properly administered antibiotics, decongestants and steroid nasal sprays. However, because of anatomical problems that develop within the nose and failure of antibiotics to eradicate certain bacteria, the condition can occasionally be resistant to medical treatment and cause persistent symptoms that last for months or even years. 

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Asbury Park Press News Article A cut above the rest

Facial plastic and nasal sinus surgery are Frank J Scaccia’s specialties. So are racing bikes and running marathons. Suffice it to say, the Red Bank physician works and plays on the cutting edge.

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Asbury Park Press News article

Bizarre hiccups cure sets off medical marathon

By SANDRA OTTO CUMMINGS

CORRESPONDENT

LEANING BACK in his chair relaxing after a workday at a chemical company, 60-year-old Donald Logan felt the hiccups starting. They’d been doing that since he was 18, but since1988, they had worsened–striking regularly and without warning for days at a time.

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Meridian Health Views Community newsletter

Sinus Surgery Ends 10 Years of Problems

Sinus problems and sleep apnea won’t slow down this politician anymore, thanks to Riverview Medical Center’s new infrared image-guided computer system.

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Who always wondered what

who always wondered what a nasal polyp looks like and how we remove it . . Riverside Plastic Surgery And Sinus Center, NJ Frank Scaccia MD FACS Main Office 70 East Front St., Third Flr. Red Bank, NJ 07701 Tel: (732) 747-5300 Fax: (732)...

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Correction of the Wide Bulbous Tip

1 week post op rhinoplasty with narrowing and correction of tip deformities. Swelling still very evident.

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It's Just Not All About the Bump

1 week post op rhinoplasty that involved extensive Tip contouring with cartilage grafts below tip to expand retracted nostrils. Small...

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Immediate Post-op at Riverside

Today at Riverside. Immediate postop with permission.

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Chin Implant and Neck Tuck

Chin implant & neck tuck/lipo all through 1 inch incision under chin. 3 weeks post-op with swelling. With patient permission.

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Princess Grace Kelly!

Had a patient we operated on who brought in a pic of the former Princess of Monaco and said please give me her nose. Well. . ok . .I did the best I could

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3 Month Post OP

3 month post op today 3/4 oblique view Left photo preop With patient permission

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Learn about our work at Riverside Facial Plastic Surgery & Sinus Center.

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Are you considering changing the shape of your nose or improving how you br...

Where to find us?

Address
70 East Front St., 3rd Floor,
Red Bank, NJ 07701
Phone Number
(732) 747-5300

Additional Offices

525 Route 70, Suite 3A
Brick Township, NJ 08723
219 Taylors Mills Road
Manalapan, NJ 07726