
Published Nov 18, 2016
5 minute read
In a BBL or butt lift fat transfer, your own fat is harvested, processed, and then injected into the buttocks, making fat the hero of the enhancement. The key is maximizing fat survival and placement for lasting contour.
When it comes to improving the backside, the Brazilian Butt Lift has become the procedure of choice at Artisan Aesthetics Plastic Surgery & Laser Center. Popular with Dr. Castor’s patients to maximize the buttocks while enhancing the rest of their figure with butt lift fat transfer. In addition to having a more natural look and feel, the surgeon will precisely place and shape fat. More malleable than a standard implant, Dr. Castor is able to sculpt your body’s transferred fat cells to give your buttocks the shape, contour, and projection that you desire.
There is no set amount of fat. Instead, the amount of fat needed for your Brazilian Butt Lift depends on what you are hoping to achieve. When deciding on the exact amount, Dr. Castor is careful to take into consideration the size of your frame, as well as your overall proportions.
Even small, thin individuals usually have an adequate amount of body fat. To harvest enough fat, Dr. Castor may choose to excise fat from multiple areas through Vaser liposuction. Including the abdomen, waist, love handles, hips, and thighs. Some patients find it beneficial to gain 10 to 20 pounds before undergoing their Brazilian Butt Lift.
However, there are cases when a patient simply cannot accumulate enough fat to get the results they want. In such cases, a traditional butt lift with implants can be a wonderful alternative.
Barring that, if you continue to live a healthy lifestyle, the results of your Brazilian Butt Lift are permanent. While a portion of the transferred fat is naturally reabsorbed back into the body, the majority (roughly 60 to 85 percent) of the injected fat “takes”, or remains.
Remember, these are live fat cells. This means that, like the rest of the fat in your body, they are susceptible to weight fluctuation and can be gained and lost with the rest of your body fat. Successful, long-lasting results are best achieved when the patient is dedicated to remaining at a consistent weight.

View our BBL procedure before-and-after gallery.
A BBL uses your own fat. Liposuction removes fat from elsewhere, purifies it, and injects it into the buttocks to enhance shape and volume.
The surgeon injects tiny droplets of fat in multiple layers and directions to improve contour and a natural look.
Common donor sites include the abdomen, flanks (“love handles”), thighs, and back areas where excess fat is often present.
Because the procedure relies on your own fat for the enhancement, not implants, fat is the key ingredient.
Good candidates have enough localized fat to harvest, realistic goals, a healthy weight, and no contraindicating medical conditions. Your surgeon will assess.
Some fat persists long-term, especially if you maintain a stable weight. Fat that doesn’t survive is reabsorbed; occasional touch-ups may be needed. Explore how long a BBL lasts.
No. Survival depends on injection technique, blood supply, patient factors, and postoperative care.
Initial BBL recovery often takes 1–2 weeks for most daily activities; full results settle over several weeks to a few months as swelling goes down.
Fat embolism (rare but serious) is a critical risk. Other risks include infection, asymmetry, contour irregularities, and anesthesia risks. Choose an experienced board-certified surgeon.
Most surgeons limit sitting directly on the butt for several weeks to protect fat grafts. The surgeon will guide you with a specific plan. Discover
Pre-op work includes medical clearance, stopping certain meds, smoking cessation if applicable, and arranging recovery support. Follow your surgeon’s instructions.
Costs vary by region and surgeon, including anesthesia and facility fees. Discuss a detailed quote and value (outcome, safety, expertise) with your provider.
You’ll need prescribed meds, compression garments, activity restrictions, and regular follow-ups. Hydration, nutrition, and gentle movement aid healing.
Weight changes can affect fat survival and buttock shape. Maintain a stable, healthy weight and follow your surgeon’s guidance.
Yes, gluteal implants exist but carry different risks; non-surgical options include fat transfer via injections-only methods (less common for large volume) or exercises and clothing/shaping. Discuss with a qualified surgeon for the best approach.
Want a fuller and rounder backside? The Brazilian Butt Lift is a real solution that works. Dr. Castor has helped many patients achieve better curves by moving fat from other body areas to their buttocks. You can see the amazing results in our before-and-after photos. Interested in learning more about this procedure? Call us at (813) 971-2000 to schedule a BBL consultation with Dr. Castor. He offers consultations at both his Tampa offices and online. Talk to him about how a Brazilian Butt Lift can help you get the shape you want.