A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for enhancing curves and achieving a fuller, balanced shape. While results can be transformative, some patients experience an unwanted side effect: dents or irregularities in the buttocks. These indentations may appear during recovery and can affect both the look and feel of your results. Preventing dents after BBL requires a combination of choosing the right surgeon, following a strict aftercare plan, and understanding how your body heals after fat transfer.
In this guide, we will cover the causes of dents, how to minimize risks before and after surgery, and the steps you can take to maintain smooth, natural-looking results.
Causes of Dents After BBL
Dents after a Brazilian Butt Lift can develop for several reasons. Some are linked to the surgery itself, while others come from how your body heals during recovery. The most common causes include:
-
Uneven fat distribution – If the fat is not placed smoothly across the buttocks, certain areas may look fuller while others appear flat. This usually comes down to technique and precision during surgery.
-
Fat necrosis – Not every fat cell survives after transfer. When some of the fat loses blood supply, it can shrink or harden, which may leave small dents or firm spots under the skin.
-
Pre-existing dents – Many patients already have dimples, cellulite, or minor irregularities before surgery. A BBL can improve shape, but it cannot completely erase natural skin patterns.
-
Scar tissue – Old scars or tethered connective tissue can pull the skin inward, creating indentations that fat transfer alone may not correct.
-
Pressure during healing – Sitting too soon, lying on your back, or wearing tight clothing in the early weeks can damage fragile fat cells. This can cause uneven fat survival and visible dents.
-
Weight changes – Large shifts in weight after surgery affect the distribution of fat and may make dents more noticeable. Keeping your weight stable helps protect results.
-
Poor aftercare – Healing requires proper care. Skipping hydration, not eating balanced meals, or ignoring compression garment instructions can slow recovery and increase the risk of irregularities.
Preventive Measures Before Surgery
Pick the right surgeon – Choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with strong BBL experience. Ask how they ensure even fat placement and review their before-and-after photos.
Be open about your history – Tell your surgeon about cellulite, scars, or pre-existing dents so they can plan around them.
Prepare your body – Stay hydrated, eat balanced meals, maintain a stable weight, and avoid smoking before surgery.
Follow pre-op guidance – Stick to your surgeon’s instructions on medications, supplements, and lifestyle changes.
Aftercare & Recovery — Best Practices to Prevent Dents
Avoid direct pressure on the buttocks — Don’t sit directly on your buttocks for the early healing period. Many surgeons advise avoiding prolonged sitting for several weeks; when you must sit, use a BBL/donut pillow and place it behind your thighs so the buttocks are free from direct weight.
Use a BBL pillow or cushion — A proper pillow moves weight to the thighs and reduces stress on fragile fat grafts. Keep one handy for short sit-downs during the first month.
Wear the compression garment as directed — Compression controls swelling and helps the skin conform to new contours. Follow your surgeon’s instructions for fit and wear time (commonly several weeks; protocols vary). Don’t make it too tight.
Eat for healing — Prioritize protein, vitamins (A, C), and healthy fats to support tissue repair and blood flow. Avoid crash diets during early healing; stable, nutritious meals help fat survival.
Stay well hydrated — Good hydration supports skin elasticity and circulation, both of which are important for graft survival and a smooth result.
Move gently but don’t strain — Light walking helps circulation and reduces clot risk. Avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and activities that press on the buttocks until your surgeon clears you (often several weeks).
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol — Smoking lowers circulation and impairs healing; alcohol can interfere with inflammation control and nutrition. Both can reduce fat survival.
Consider lymphatic massage and gentle massage when advised — Manual lymphatic drainage and targeted massage (only when your surgeon approves) can help with swelling and encourage smooth contouring. Don’t massage early into tender areas unless cleared.
Manage scars and clothing irritation — Use silicone sheets or scar creams as recommended for incision sites and avoid tight seams or bands that rub the grafted areas. Comfortable, breathable clothing reduces irritation.
Keep weight stable — Big weight shifts after surgery can change how fat is distributed and may make irregularities more obvious. Aim for a steady weight once healed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Preventing Dents After BBL
1. Are small dents normal after BBL? Yes, minor irregularities are common in the first few months as swelling goes down and fat cells settle.
2. When should I worry about dents? If dents are deep, painful, or don’t improve by 3–6 months, let your surgeon know.
3. Do dents always mean my surgeon made a mistake? Not at all. Dents can result from healing, fat survival, scar tissue, or pre-existing skin texture.
4. Can sitting too early really affect my results? Yes. Sitting directly on your buttocks in the first weeks can damage fat cells and cause unevenness.
5. Will eating more fat help the grafted fat survive? No. Eating extra fat doesn’t “feed” the transferred cells. A balanced, healthy diet works best.
6. How long until dents or lumps smooth out? Many smooth out as swelling subsides within 3–6 months, though some may remain if fat loss or scar tissue is involved.
7. What can I do if dents don’t go away? Options include massage, skin treatments, or fillers. For lasting fixes, revision surgery may be considered after 6–12 months.