From Beverly Hills to Miami, sensual curves created by Brazilian butt lifts have become more and more popular, thanks in part to buxom celebrities like Jennifer Lopez and Kim Kardashian. Florida plastic surgeon Constantino Mendieta, who says that he invented the “Miami thong lift” about 10 years ago, says that his practice is now almost 85 percent gluteal contouring. Here’s a look at an increasingly popular trend in the world of plastic surgery.
What is the Brazilian butt lift?
The natural curves of the body can be accentuated by making the buttocks bigger and giving the body an hourglass look. This can often be performed alongside breast augmentation in order to provide maximum results. The procedure is quite simple. Liposuction removes fat from the thighs, tummy, or back. This can reduce the appearance of fatty deposits in problem areas. The fat is then injected into the buttocks.
How well does it work?
While the body will reabsorb some of the fat, usually about 20 percent, many patients report excellent results after the first procedure. In some cases, however, patients may need to return for a touch-up procedure, especially if there is asymmetry between the buttocks. Plastic surgeons with experience in Brazilian butt lifts can often avoid this and other unwanted consequences of the surgery.
What happens after a Brazilian butt lift?
Dr. Mendieta says that he usually advises “thong lift” patients to avoid sleeping on their backs or put pressure on their buttocks for two months. This is the best way to protect the newly injected fat cells and minimize the risk of reabsorption.
Patients who have received gluteal contouring surgery are usually very happy with the results. Jenny Fitz, one of Dr. Mendieta’s patients who came from Bolivia to have it done, says that she loves her new body, joking that she used to look like SpongeBob SquarePants.
