Many people considering a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) also wonder if it’s possible to pair the procedure with a tummy tuck. After all, if you’re already planning to undergo surgery, combining two popular body contouring procedures may seem like a practical way to achieve a sculpted waistline and fuller curves in one step.
The idea of walking away with both a flatter abdomen and enhanced buttocks is understandably attractive. However, while it’s technically possible to perform a tummy tuck and a BBL together, it’s not always the safest or most practical choice. Let’s explore why.
Why Patients Consider Combining Procedures
One of the primary reasons people consider having multiple cosmetic surgeries at once is the potential to reduce recovery time. For example, “mommy makeover” packages often combine a tummy tuck with breast surgery and liposuction, giving patients one recovery period instead of several.
When procedures complement each other, such as liposuction with a tummy tuck, the combination can make sense. These surgeries target areas on the same side of the body, and their recovery requirements usually do not conflict. However, this is not always the case for a tummy tuck and a Brazilian Butt Lift.
Surgical Time and Patient Safety
Both procedures are complex and require several hours in the operating room. A BBL involves liposuction to harvest fat before transferring it to the buttocks, while a tummy tuck requires the removal of excess skin and tightening of abdominal muscles.
Extending surgery time increases exposure to anesthesia and raises the risk of complications. Only patients in excellent health with a stable BMI, normal lab results, and no underlying conditions should even be considered for combined surgery. Even then, many surgeons recommend performing the operations separately to prioritize safety.
The Biggest Challenge: Recovery Positioning
The most significant hurdle in pairing these procedures is the recovery process.
- Brazilian Butt Lift Recovery: After a BBL, patients cannot sit directly on their buttocks or lie flat on their back for several weeks. Pressure on the fat transfer sites can interfere with results and healing.
- Tummy Tuck Recovery: A tummy tuck requires patients to avoid lying flat on their stomach and to move carefully while abdominal tissues heal. Standing upright may also be uncomfortable in the first few days.
Now, imagine combining both recoveries. You would not be able to lie comfortably on your back, stomach, or buttocks. Finding a safe and sustainable position to rest becomes nearly impossible, which makes healing slower and more stressful on the body.
Recommended Surgical Order
If you plan to undergo both procedures, most surgeons recommend scheduling the BBL first. The reason is simple. During a tummy tuck, some abdominal fat is removed, which could otherwise be used for fat transfer to the buttocks. By doing the BBL first, you maximize available fat for shaping and achieve better results.
How Long Should You Wait Between Surgeries?
Patience is essential. Surgeons typically recommend waiting at least six months between a BBL and a tummy tuck. This timeframe allows your body to recover fully from the first procedure, minimizes risks, and ensures that your final results appear natural and long-lasting.
Safety Before Speed
The idea of undergoing both a tummy tuck and a Brazilian Butt Lift simultaneously may sound appealing. Still, the overlapping recovery restrictions and surgical risks make it a less-than-ideal combination for most patients. A skilled surgeon’s top priority is your safety, not just convenience. Taking the staged approach and spacing surgeries out often leads to better outcomes and a smoother recovery journey.
Considering a Tummy Tuck or BBL?
At NW Face & Body, our board-certified surgeons specialize in advanced body contouring techniques, prioritizing your health and aesthetic goals above all else. Whether you are exploring a tummy tuck, a Brazilian Butt Lift, or a personalized treatment plan, our team will guide you through every step with expertise and care.
Learn more or schedule a consultation today
