Patients continually ask me how to optimize their BBL results.  This is a very important question as the plastic surgery process is a two-way street!  Patients who eat right and exercise almost ALWAYS get better results than those who do not.  In our modern world, people often fantasize about a beautiful result without putting in the work.  This is not how this works.  Below are some simple suggestions to get the most out of your investment both BEFORE and AFTER the procedure itself.   

Week 1-2

DO NOT sit or put any pressure on the buttocks for more than a few minutes.  During this period you should sleep on your stomach or sides.  Wear the compression garment all times with short breaks for showering and washing of the garment. When you must sit, use an offloading pillow to re-distribute pressure to the backs of your legs or thighs.  We are fans of the booty buddy (https://thebootybuddy.com ) but there are many options out there.  Do your own research.  Please get up and walk at regular intervals to avoid blood clots, but also take precautions in doing anything strenuous the first few weeks.

Week 3

At this point, most patients may return to work.  If your job involves sitting, a cushion must be used to minimize pressure on the buttocks. If you have a standing desk or the ability to stand and sit, please do so.  You can resume light cardiovascular activities such as walking, but do not overdo it.  This is to protect the fat cells that were grafted.  Upper bodyweight training is permitted, but do not do anything that engages the gluteus muscles as this will burn out the fat cells in the buttocks.  Let your body be your guide.  If it complains or feels abnormally sore, back off. 

Week 4-5

During this period, we encourage the continued use of a soft cushion for extended sitting as well as the compression garment.  You may also increase your exercise to a faster pace.   

Weeks 6-8

Most of the fat cells should be stable and set at this point.  You can begin more strenuous exercises such as jogging or running if all is going well.  I do tell my patients to avoid lunges and squats or any exercise that targets the gluteus maximus muscle for another 6-8 weeks.  That is not scientific and my bias and intuition only.   

Nutrition

A well-balanced diet is always important to help boost your immune system. Outcomes of surgery are directly related to nutrition before and afterwards. Eat a wide range of colorful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and healthy proteins.  Starting before surgery, begin taking the vitamins provided at your pre-operative visit and consume a healthy diet. Eating sufficient protein promotes healing and helps maintain muscle mass.  Try to get anywhere from 60 – 120 gms per day.  Protein shakes can help boost this intake.  Do not attempt to cut calories after surgery.  Your body’s metabolism is higher with the stress of surgery and you also need to feed the fat cells.  Drink AT LEAST 1-2 liters of water per day.  Try to avoid carbonated beverages, excessive caffeine, sugar, and salt.