As a highly qualified professional in the field of aesthetic medicine, with over three decades of experience in plastic and aesthetic procedures, and a pioneer in non-surgical butt lifts, Gerrie Obi, APRN was asked to speak about the topic at the ISPAN Conference. She holds a master’s degree in nursing, specializing in adult and geriatric primary care. Gerrie has been employed and served in major aesthetic corporations as an educator and medical science liaison, providing clinical and scientific support for various products, training thousands of aesthetic providers globally. She is currently the president of the board of directors of the International Society for Plastic Surgery and Aesthetic Nurses (ISPAN) and Executive Director of Medical Affairs for Prollenium US.
What is a BBL?
A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the appearance of the buttocks. Contrary to its name, it does not involve a physical lifting of the buttocks. Instead, it creates an optical illusion of a lift by reshaping the area. Traditional BBL involves fat transfer, where fat is harvested from other areas of the body and injected into the buttocks. However, this procedure has raised safety concerns, especially regarding fat injections into the gluteal muscle, which can lead to significant complications.
Non-surgical butt lifts, as explained by Gerrie Obi, APRN, use biostimulators or fillers instead of fat transfer. These fillers are often hyper-diluted and can improve the texture of the skin while adding volume. The procedure involves multiple injections into the subcutaneous layer ( can and many times will use ultrasound guidance when needed), avoiding deeper muscle layers for safety. Obi highlights that non-surgical options are not only safer but also beneficial for those who lack sufficient fat for transfer or want to avoid the lengthy recovery associated with surgical BBL.
What is Involved in Getting a Non-Surgical BBL
The process of getting a non-surgical BBL involves a thorough consultation to manage expectations, particularly regarding the cost, number of sessions required, and realistic outcomes. The actual procedure includes careful marking of the injection areas, keeping in mind the natural anatomy and desired shape of the buttocks. Anesthesia may be used for patient comfort. Post-treatment care is crucial for optimal results, including avoiding sitting on hard surfaces immediately after the procedure and keeping the injection sites clean.
In her presentation, Obi emphasizes the importance of understanding the anatomy of the buttock area, safe injection techniques, and managing patient expectations. She advocates for a patient-centered approach, where the treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s needs, budget, and desired outcomes. Her extensive experience and commitment to safety and efficacy in aesthetic procedures make her a respected authority in the field.