A Brazilian butt lift leaves only small scars, typically several incisions of a few millimetres to around a centimetre each. They are placed where the liposuction cannula and fat-transfer cannula enter the skin, usually in natural creases or areas covered by underwear. Most scars start pink or darker and gradually fade and flatten over 12 to 18 months, although how they mature depends on your skin type and aftercare.
Where the incisions are made
Each BBL is planned individually, but incisions are commonly placed in these areas:
- Lower back and sacrum: a small incision near the top of the buttock crease is often used for both liposuction of the back and flanks and for fat transfer.
- Buttock crease: incisions at the fold beneath the buttock, or within the natural crease between the buttocks, allow access to the lower part.
- Flanks and hips: small entry points at the sides for liposuction of the love handles.
- Abdomen: incisions near the belly button or low on the abdomen, often within the bikini line.
- Thighs: if the inner or outer thighs are used as donor areas.
Mr Nassab marks these points before surgery and chooses positions that are as discreet as possible for your body shape.
How many scars to expect
The number of incisions depends on how many donor areas are treated and the access needed for safe fat placement. A patient having liposuction of several areas may have eight to ten small scars, whereas a smaller procedure needs fewer. They are much smaller than those of operations that remove skin, such as a tummy tuck or buttock lift, which leave long linear scars.
How BBL scars heal
Scars go through predictable stages:
- First two weeks: incisions may leak some fluid for a day or two. They are closed with small stitches or left to drain, and covered with dressings.
- Weeks 2 to 12: the scars look pink, red or darker than the surrounding skin and may feel slightly raised or firm.
- Months 3 to 18: scars gradually flatten, soften and fade towards a pale or skin-toned mark.
Friction from compression garments can irritate incisions early on, so garment seams should be checked regularly.
Caring for your scars
- Keep them clean and dry: follow dressing instructions until the incisions have fully closed.
- Silicone gel or sheets: once healed, silicone can help scars flatten and soften. It is typically used for a few months.
- Gentle massage: when advised, massage with a simple moisturiser can help soften firm scars.
- Sun protection: keep scars covered or use high-factor sunscreen for at least a year, as sun exposure can darken them permanently.
- Do not smoke: smoking slows healing and increases the risk of wound problems.
Skin type and scarring
People with darker skin tones are more likely to develop hyperpigmentation (darkening) of scars, and some people are prone to raised hypertrophic scars or keloids, which extend beyond the original wound. If you have had keloid scars before, tell Mr Nassab at consultation so incision placement and scar care can be planned accordingly. Hyperpigmentation often improves over time with sun protection.
Warning signs during healing
Contact the surgical team the same day if an incision becomes increasingly red, hot, swollen or painful, discharges pus, or if you develop a fever. A small amount of clear or bloodstained fluid in the first day or two is normal. Any wound that reopens should be reviewed.
Scars in the donor areas
The liposuction entry points on the abdomen, flanks, back or thighs heal in the same way as those used for fat transfer. Occasionally a small patch of skin around an entry point becomes darker or slightly depressed, particularly if the garment rubbed in the early weeks. These changes usually improve as the scar matures.
If scars are poor
Most BBL scars fade well, but occasionally they remain raised, darker or tethered to the tissue beneath. Options include continued silicone therapy, steroid injections for raised scars, and scar revision surgery once scars have matured, usually after at least 12 months. Buttock fat grafting (BBL) costs from £12,500 and the £150 consultation is charged separately. Cosmetic surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are BBL scars noticeable?
They are small and usually placed in creases or under underwear. Most fade to faint marks over 12 to 18 months.
How many scars does a BBL leave?
It depends on the number of donor areas treated, but typically several small incisions of a few millimetres to a centimetre.
When can silicone be used on BBL scars?
Once incisions have fully healed and closed, usually after around two to three weeks. Mr Nassab will advise on timing.
Can BBL scars darken?
Yes, particularly in darker skin or if exposed to the sun. Sun protection for at least a year helps reduce this risk.
Do BBL scars ever disappear completely?
Scars are permanent, but most fade to faint, flat marks that are hard to see, especially when placed in natural creases.
