BBL Recovery Resources

If you are considering a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL), the first question on your mind is likely: "How much is this going to hurt?" As one of the most popular body-contouring procedures in Miami and beyond, the results are undeniable, but the recovery journey requires strategic preparation. At Bombshell Booty Pillow, we’ve helped thousands of patients navigate their post-op journey with the right supplies. In this expert guide, we’ll break down exactly what to expect regarding pain levels, recovery timelines, and the essential BBL recovery kit items you need to stay comfortable while protecting your surgical investment. 1. The Reality of BBL Surgery Pain The surgery itself is painless because it is performed under general anesthesia. You will be fully asleep and won't feel anything during the procedure. The "pain" people talk about actually refers to the post-operative recovery period. Most patients describe the feeling not as a sharp, stabbing pain, but as intense muscle soreness, tightness, and deep bruising. It feels similar to the day after a grueling, high-intensity workout where you've pushed your body to its absolute limit. Where is the pain located? Surprisingly, the primary discomfort doesn't usually come from the buttocks where the fat was injected. Most of the soreness stems from the liposuction harvest sites—usually the abdomen, flanks, or back. These areas will feel tender and swollen as the nerves begin to heal. 2. BBL Recovery Timeline: Managing the Discomfort Understanding the timeline is the best way to manage your expectations and stay calm during the healing process. Week 1: The "Hump" Week The first 3 to 5 days are generally the most challenging. Days 1-2: You will feel groggy and very sore. You may experience fluid drainage from your incision sites, which is normal and healthy. Days 3-5: Swelling and bruising usually peak. It is vital to stay ahead of the pain by following your doctor's medication schedule strictly. Week 2: Finding Your Groove By the second week, the sharpest discomfort usually subsides into a dull, manageable ache. You will begin to feel more mobile, but it is vital to continue wearing your compression garments 24/7. Weeks 3-6: The Refining Phase While the majority of the pain is gone, you may still feel "zaps" or itching as nerves regenerate. This is when the Stage 2 faja and lipo foams become your best friends to ensure a smooth, lump-free result. 3. Essential Tools to Minimize Pain and Swelling To rank for high-intent shoppers, we must highlight the tools that actually improve the patient experience. The Power of Lipo Side Foam (Lateral Protectors) Many patients overlook Lipo Side Foam. These ergonomic inserts fit into the curves of your waist under your faja. They are essential for: Flattening the skin evenly to prevent ripples. Reducing bruising by providing consistent, soft compression. Stopping the faja from digging into your healing skin, which is a major source of post-op discomfort. The Bombshell BBL Pillow: Protecting the "Liquid Gold" The #1 rule of BBL recovery is: Do not sit directly on your butt for at least 6 weeks. Sitting puts pressure on the newly transferred fat cells, which can cause pain and fat necrosis (killing the fat). The Bombshell BBL Pillow is specifically designed to support your weight on your thighs, allowing your buttocks to "float" freely. This protects your results and prevents the pain of trying to sit on a sore surgical site. 4. The 30-Day BBL Recovery Checklist Copy this checklist to stay on track during your first month of healing: Phase 1: Days 1–7 (The Critical Week) [ ] Avoid Sitting: Use your BBL pillow for all essential sitting (bathroom/travel). [ ] Hydrate: Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily to flush out anesthesia and surgical toxins. [ ] Walk: Take a 5-minute walk around your house every 2 hours to prevent blood clots. [ ] Garment Care: Wear your Stage 1 faja and abdominal board 24/7. Phase 2: Days 8–14 (The Managing Week) [ ] Lymphatic Drainage: Start professional lymphatic massages to reduce swelling and hardness. [ ] Arnica: Continue using Arnica to speed up the healing of deep bruises. [ ] Skin Care: Keep incision sites clean and dry according to your surgeon's instructions. Phase 3: Days 15–30 (The Sculpting Phase) [ ] Stage 2 Transition: Move into your high-compression Stage 2 faja. [ ] Lateral Protectors: Add Lipo Side Foam to your routine to snatch the waist and prevent faja folds. [ ] Diet: Maintain a high-protein diet to provide the nutrients needed for fat graft survival. 5. FAQ: Preguntas Frecuentes sobre la Recuperación BBL ¿Es muy dolorosa la cirugía BBL? La mayoría de las pacientes lo describen como una sensación de agujetas intensas o moretones profundos. El uso de una faja y espumas lipo ayuda significativamente a calmar esta sensación. ¿Cuándo puedo volver al trabajo? Si tienes un trabajo de oficina, muchas pacientes regresan a los 10–14 días, siempre que usen su Bombshell BBL Pillow para proteger los injertos de grasa. ¿Por qué necesito protectores laterales (Side Foams)? Son esenciales para evitar que la faja se doble y cree marcas permanentes en la piel, además de ayudar a "marcar" la cintura durante la fase de desinflamación. Conclusion: Invest in Your Recovery Is BBL surgery painful? It is a temporary challenge for a permanent transformation. By following this 30-Day Recovery Checklist and using high-quality tools like Lipo Side Foam and the Bombshell BBL Pillow, you ensure a smooth, comfortable, and successful journey to your new body.  

Discover the secret to a smooth, ripple-free waistline after surgery. Our ultimate guide to Lipo Side Foam (lateral protectors) explains how to prevent skin creases, eliminate fluid pockets, and achieve the perfect snatched waist during your Stage 2 recovery. Learn the best tips for placement and maintenance to protect your results

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.

One of the most overlooked parts of BBL recovery is learning how to sit the right way. Many patients assume that simply buying a recovery pillow is enough, but small errors—like poor positioning, sitting too long, or using the wrong surface—can quietly undo results. These habits often go unnoticed until uneven healing or volume loss becomes visible. Paying attention to pillow use isn’t just about comfort; it’s about protecting your investment and giving the fat transfer the best chance to take hold.   Why BBL Pillow Is Essential After Surgery A BBL pillow isn’t just about comfort—it’s a medical necessity during recovery. After fat transfer, the new fat cells are fragile and require time to establish a blood supply. Direct pressure on the buttocks can crush these cells, leading to fat loss, uneven results, or contour irregularities. By shifting weight onto the thighs, the pillow prevents pressure on the surgical area, allowing grafted fat cells to survive. It also helps reduce pain, swelling, and strain on incisions, making recovery smoother overall. Most surgeons recommend using a BBL pillow for at least 2–6 weeks, depending on healing progress. Consistent use not only protects results in the early weeks but also minimizes the risk of complications, ensuring your new curves settle properly and last long-term.   Common Mistakes Patients Make With BBL Pillows   Sitting Too Soon  Sitting before your surgeon gives clearance is one of the biggest threats to your results. Even with a pillow, early pressure can interfere with fat cell survival. Most doctors recommend avoiding direct sitting for at least two to four weeks, so stick to side-lying or standing positions until you’re officially cleared. Using the Pillow on Soft Surfaces BBL pillows are designed to work on firm, flat seating. When used on couches, recliners, or soft car seats, the pillow can sink in and allow unwanted pressure on the buttocks. Always place the pillow on a sturdy base or use a car adapter to keep your glutes fully elevated. Poor Positioning Placing the pillow too far forward or not centering it properly can shift weight back onto the buttocks or tailbone. For best support, sit with your thighs resting fully on the pillow and your buttocks slightly suspended, as if they’re floating without contact. Choosing the Wrong Pillow Not all pillows are created equal. Donut cushions and flimsy travel pillows don’t provide the clearance needed to protect fat cells. Low-quality foam also compresses quickly under body weight. A firm, medical-grade BBL pillow is essential for proper support and long-term use. Sitting Too Long or Skipping the Pillow Long hours of sitting reduce circulation, slow healing, and increase pressure on grafted areas. Even short periods without the pillow can cause damage. Take breaks every 30–45 minutes to stand or walk, and never skip using your pillow until your surgeon says it’s safe.   How to Sit on BBL Pillow  Place the pillow on a firm, flat chair, not a soft couch or bed. Slide forward so the pillow rests under your thighs, keeping your butt slightly lifted.  Sit back fully so your thighs are supported and you feel stable. Keep your back upright to avoid slouching pressure. Take breaks every 30–45 minutes to stand and move around. In the car, add extra support so the pillow doesn’t sink into bucket seats.  What to Look for in a Quality BBL Pillow   After surgery, the right pillow can make or break your recovery. A good one doesn’t just give you a place to sit—it protects the fat grafts, keeps pressure off the surgical area, and makes everyday life more manageable. Here’s what you should pay attention to before buying: Material and Firmness  Choose a pillow made from high-density foam. It should be firm enough to carry your weight without collapsing, but still comfortable for long use. If it sinks too much, your butt will end up making contact with the chair, which defeats the purpose. Design and Shape   Look for a cutout or raised design that fully lifts the buttocks and shifts weight to your thighs. The best designs balance comfort and support, so you’re not straining your back or legs while sitting. Premium options, like the patented Bombshell Booty Pillow, are shaped specifically for BBL recovery and keep you in the safest position without sacrificing comfort. Comfort and Functionality  Recovery can last weeks, so the little details matter. A removable, washable cover keeps things hygienic, and lightweight pillows with handles or travel bags make it easier to take them from your couch to your car to the office. If you’ll be sitting for longer periods, materials that help with airflow or temperature control can make a big difference.  Durability and Care  Your pillow should last through the recovery period without losing its shape. Cheap pillows flatten out quickly, which puts your results at risk. Go for something built to withstand daily use, and make sure it’s easy to clean—machine-washable covers are ideal.   Read More: Choosing the Perfect BBL Pillow for Your Recovery Some Extra Tips to Protect BBL Results   Wear your compression garment as directed Stay well-hydrated Eat protein-rich, balanced meals Take light daily walks Get enough sleep Avoid smoking and alcohol Keep your weight stable Conclusion Every step you take in recovery shapes the outcome of your BBL, and avoiding small mistakes makes all the difference. With the right guidance and consistent care, you can protect your curves and heal with confidence. For added support, explore our Bombshell Recovery Kit—complete with surgical supplies and accessories designed to make the process smoother. Give your body the tools it needs to recover beautifully.  

In recent years, it has become increasingly popular for men to undergo the Brazilian Butt Lift procedure, a cosmetic surgery that involves removing fat from one part of the body and injecting it into the buttocks to enhance their shape and size. While traditionally associated with women, the Brazilian Butt Lift has now become a popular choice for men who desire a more toned and defined buttocks.

DR.MIAMI SAYS CELEBRITIES ARE KISSING THEIR "DUMP TRUCK" BUTTS GOODBYE AS SKINNY BBLS ARE EMERGING Blac Chyna recently announced on Instagram that she had undergone breast and butt reduction surgery due to health concerns. She advised her followers not to get silicone shots, as they can cause sickness, complications, and even death. Chyna also dissolved her face fillers, stating that it all has to come out. Her transformation has led to questions about whether the era of women enhancing their rear ends and receiving face fillers is over. In the 2010s, women started getting Brazilian butt lifts, pursuing a curvier frame that celebrities like the Kardashians helped popularize. While the famous family has denied going under the knife, fans have noticed a shift in their appearance lately. Some have even speculated that they had a “Skinny BBL,” which is a less dramatic version of the big butt and hip enhancement procedure. Dr. Michael Salzhauer, also known as Dr. Miami, who is widely known for his successful cosmetic procedures and has over 2 million TikTok followers, shared some insight on Chyna’s recent transformation and the current state of plastic surgery trends. He thinks that it's great that Chyna removed fillers from her face and silicone from her butt, as the whole point of plastic surgery is to improve self-esteem. He has seen an increase in customers asking for the reversal of their Brazilian butt lifts to make them smaller. The popularity of the procedure hit a peak, and now people who may have gone too far are realizing it and coming back to get it back to a more moderate size. However, Dr. Miami notes that reversing a BBL and silicone injections are different. BBL is fat, so it's easy to reverse by sucking out the fat. But silicone is trickier because it attaches itself to the skin and tissues inside and has to be excised. Taking silicone out is a much bigger deal and requires a more invasive procedure with a lot more downtime and scarring. Dr. Miami also shared that some celebrities are often referenced when customers come in for fillers in their faces or BBLs. For the butt, J.Lo is a popular reference, along with Kim Kardashian, whose body has changed a lot over the years. He advises customers to be specific about which Kim Kardashian they mean as her body has changed significantly over the years. Kylie Jenner is also a big reference. Overall, plastic surgery is an individual decision that each person must make for themselves. However, Dr. Miami stresses that the goal of plastic surgery should be to improve self-esteem and not to overdo things to the point where one becomes self-conscious about the procedure.

 COLLEGE EVOLUTION OF PLASTIC SURGERY The normalization of plastic surgery raises important questions about the effects of beauty standards and the pressures of conformity. While some individuals may benefit from plastic surgery in terms of improved confidence and quality of lifetions.

BBL Pillow – Bombshell Booty Pillow Post Op Body Sculpting Comfort Pillow Can a BBL be done over butt and hip implants? It is generally not recommended to perform a BBL over existing butt and hip implants. The implants can interfere with the fat integration and placement, potentially distorting the results of the BBL. It's best to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your options for achieving your desired results. They can assess your individual situation and recommend the best course of action for you. Could Frequent Sitting Affect Brazilian Butt Lift Results? It's worth noting that some doctors may have different recommendations regarding post-operative care and sitting after a BBL procedure. However, it is generally agreed that avoiding direct pressure on the buttocks and hips is important during the initial healing period. This may involve using a special BBL pillow or BBL cushion to sit on or avoiding sitting altogether as much as possible. It's important to discuss any concerns or questions you have about post-operative care with your doctor to ensure the best possible results from your BBL procedure. Can Brazilian Butt Lifts be combined with exercises for optimal results – or will extra workouts just cancel out the benefits of a BBL surgery? It is advisable to avoid any intense physical exercise or activities that apply pressure to the buttocks for a minimum of 2-3 weeks following a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) procedure. The reason for this is that the injected fat in the buttocks and hips requires sufficient time to properly integrate and survive. Physical activities that put pressure on the area can hinder the healing process and potentially harm the fat cells. Once the initial recovery period has passed, it is generally safe to engage in exercises and activities that exert pressure on the buttocks to maintain a healthy lifestyle and ensure long-lasting BBL results. However, it is crucial to avoid any exercises or activities that put excessive pressure on the treated area, as this could potentially lead to fat cell death. While regular exercise can help to sustain the outcomes of a BBL, it is important to note that the procedure's results are not permanent. Similar to fat cells in other parts of the body, the fat cells injected into the buttocks and hips can decrease or expand if the person experiences weight fluctuations. Considering a Brazilian butt lift and tummy tuck at the same time, but unsure if it’s safe? If the person is in good overall health and the procedures are performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, it is generally safe to undergo a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) and tummy tuck simultaneously. Many individuals opt for this approach to enhance the overall contour of their body and achieve more striking results. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that undergoing two surgeries concurrently increases the overall risks and recovery time. It is also necessary to have a detailed discussion with a qualified plastic surgeon regarding the potential benefits and limitations of the combined procedures, and to carefully adhere to all of their instructions both before and after the surgeries to ensure the best possible outcome. How many days after a BBL procedure can I start sitting and sleeping on my back? To ensure proper healing of the fat cells that have been injected into the buttocks and hips during a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) procedure, it is generally advised to refrain from sitting directly on the area for at least 2-3 weeks. This is because the pressure from sitting can potentially hinder the integration and survival of the fat cells. While it is safe to sleep on your back after a BBL, it is important to avoid sleeping on your stomach or side with your weight on your buttocks, as this can also interfere with the healing process. To achieve the best possible results, it is crucial to follow your doctor's instructions carefully regarding sitting and sleeping after the procedure. It is generally recommended to avoid sitting directly on your buttocks for at least 2-3 weeks or as long as your doctor suggests. This will help ensure that the fat cells have the greatest chance to survive, leading to a smoother and more natural-looking outcome. Can Brazilian Butt Lift be accomplished using fat gathered through advanced Smart Lipo technology, or is traditional liposuction the only option? A Brazilian butt lift (BBL) procedure can use fat harvested through traditional liposuction or minimally invasive methods such as Smart Lipo. While traditional liposuction involves suctioning the fat out of the body using a hollow tube called a cannula, Smart Lipo uses a laser to emulsify the fat before suctioning it out. To ensure the best possible survival of the fat cells, the harvested fat should be high-quality and free of contaminants, and processed carefully. Although the technique used to harvest the fat does not necessarily affect its quality, it can affect the amount of fat available for the BBL. Traditional liposuction is generally capable of removing more fat than minimally invasive procedures such as Smart Lipo, making it more suitable for patients requiring larger amounts of fat to be removed. It is important to discuss the potential benefits and limitations of each technique with a qualified plastic surgeon, who can assess your individual situation and recommend the best approach for achieving your desired results. What are the best donor areas of the body of fat for a Fat Transfer buttocks augmentation? o ensure optimal survival of fat cells during a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) procedure, the fat used should be of high quality and free of contaminants, and it should be processed with care. Typically, fat is harvested from areas where there is excess fat, such as the abdomen, hips, and thighs, as these areas have a good supply of fat and are relatively easy to access using liposuction. However, it is worth noting that fat from the abdomen and hips tends to have a higher survival rate than fat from the thighs. To determine the best donor areas for your specific needs, it is important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon who can evaluate your body and recommend the most appropriate approach. Do you feel that your butt is shriking in size after a BBL? After a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) procedure, it is not uncommon for the buttocks to appear smaller in the weeks following the surgery due to natural absorption of some of the injected fat in the buttocks and hips. Several factors can influence the amount of fat that survives after a BBL, including the quality of the fat, the injection technique used, and the person's overall health and lifestyle. A higher fat survival rate is observed when high-quality fat is used, a precise injection technique is employed, and the person maintains a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise. If you have concerns about the size of your buttocks after a BBL, it is essential to discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon. They can assess your individual situation and recommend ways to enhance the survival of the fat. In some instances, a "touch-up" procedure may be needed to add more fat to the treated area. However, this will depend on your particular case and must be discussed with your surgeon. Is there a way for patients to stay mobile with minimal risk, like taking a five minute car ride one week after surgery using a specific type of pillow? After a Brazilian butt lift (BBL) procedure, it's important to avoid sitting directly on your buttocks for at least 2-3 weeks. This is because sitting can cause pressure on the fat cells that have been injected into the buttocks and hips, potentially interfering with their survival and integration. To help the fat cells survive, it's best to follow your doctor's recommendations and avoid sitting directly on your buttocks for as long as possible. During short periods of sitting, such as car rides, you may use a cushion or pillow to distribute your weight and avoid putting direct pressure on your buttocks. There are specially designed products such as BBL pillows and cushions that can help you distribute your weight evenly, supporting your body and minimizing pressure on the treated area. It's crucial to discuss the use of such products with your plastic surgeon and follow their instructions. They can provide you with specific guidelines on sitting and other activities after a BBL procedure to ensure the best possible outcome

There's a bigger question about the brazilian butt lift procedure When two Americans ended up dead, and two others kidnapped, amid a shootout just south of the U.S.-Mexico border, the initial questions were myriad: What happened? Who killed them? And what was the group of four people from South Carolina doing in a minivan in Matamoros?  On the last point, an explanation from relatives quickly emerged. One woman in the group, Latavia McGee, was going to Mexico for cosmetic surgery, and the other friends had joined her for a road trip. That surgery was first described as a tummy tuck. Later, relatives and friends said the procedure was a "gluteal augmentation."  And even though more than a million Americans annually seek medical care on the other side of the border, getting a "gluteal augmentation" – in a place where the State Department warns Americans not to travel at all – certainly struck a lot of people as strange.  If you know, though, you know. First, let us call this whole popular-empowering-controversial-notorious procedure what people call it in real life: the Brazilian butt lift, or BBL.  Next, let me tell you the same thing I told some of my colleagues this week. Whether or not you like this, whether or not you understand this, people do this, and especially, a lot of Black people do it. If you are a woman, and especially if you're Black, and if you are on, say, Instagram, I'm going to go out on a limb not very far at all and guess that you've had this targeted at you in your social media feed. Especially if you follow beauty and pop culture influencers. You don't have to scroll too long to see it; it simply becomes a part of your algorithm. The BBL is a thing. It's also very expensive. And that's the next thing you learn if you are having this idea pushed at you in your social feeds week after week: It's a whole lot less expensive in Mexico. So the idea that someone – it could be anyone, but for sake of discussion, let's say it's a Black woman and her Black friends from Lake City, South Carolina – would drive across six states to the tip of Texas to have this surgery? If true, it is not shocking. At all. But that doesn't address the underlying question bandied about on social media: Is it worth it? What is brazilian butt lift surgery? A BBL involves harvesting fat from other areas of the body and injecting it into the buttocks and hips. (Often, that fat is removed from the belly in the process through liposuction. So those early reports that the group went to Matamoros for a tummy tuck may also be essentially correct.) Results often mean a tiny, or snatched waist, and a curvier, fuller behind. It's the extreme hourglass aesthetic. Slim-thick. Usually, it requires general anesthesia. Initial recovery can take weeks.  I've watched for years on social media as these clinics target Black women in ads that show before and after pictures, while touting prices that are usually half of what the cost would be in America – around $10,000-$15,000 and not covered by insurance. It's called medical tourism. Popular destinations for a discounted procedure include Turkey, South America and Mexico. So-called recovery houses also offer patients post-op care and a place to heal.  The New York Times reported this week about the Matamoros clinic that had been expecting McGee. The clinic "reaches out to potential American clients with targeted ads on Instagram," according to an employee who spoke to a reporter, and posts before-and-after pictures of clients online. She said about half the clinic's patients are American.  So whether or not we fully understand the story of how Latavia McGee and three friends came to be in a white minivan in Matamoros in a hail of gunfire, we can accept that the idea of such a trip makes sense in a world where people travel the world – in sometimes questionable locales – for affordable cosmetic surgery.  It turned out there was a fifth person on the trip, Cheryl Orange, who later told police she had forgotten her travel documents and couldn't cross the border that day. She had stayed behind in Brownsville, Texas, when the rest of the group left on Friday morning to cross into Matamoros.   The group had planned to return in time to check out of the motel Saturday, according to the police report, though I wonder how McGee could have made such a quick turnaround after an invasive procedure. Instead, one came back wounded and two are dead.  “She simply went for a cosmetic surgery, and that’s it," Orange told the Associated Press. "That’s all, and this happened to them.”  Whatever truly happened to McGee and her friends that day, let us agree that any broader discussion about the risks or problems with BBLs is not so much about possible cartel violence. But let's also be clear: There is a discussion.  So how should we feel about this surgery?  Even if you think you don't know anything about Brazilian Butt Lift BBLs, you have seen BBLs.  I know, I'm out on a limb there, but not very far. The look has become increasingly popular among celebrities. Think the Kardashians (though they have denied undergoing the procedure), or Nicki Minaj.   So yes, Black women do it, white women do it, Kardashian women (maybe) do it.  Whoever they are, more women are doing it. According to a 2021 survey by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the number of buttock augmentations performed globally increased by 41% from 2017 to 2021, and buttock lifts increased by 46%. A quick search for "BBL" on TikTok will tell you a lot about what's going on. Some women will chronicle their journeys to bigger, perkier butts, explaining the process, recovery time, cost and what doctors they would recommend.  It's a mainstream conversation if you know where to look. Rapper Cardi B. is another one of those women you've seen with a BBL. But she has since warned women of the dangers and had most of her augmentation – she also had silicone injected in her buttocks – removed. What's "dangerous" may be up to each person to decide. A 2017 report, published in the Aesthetic Surgery Journal, noted that BBLs have the highest mortality rate compared to any other cosmetic surgery. These kinds of surgeries also raise all kinds of risks, including at clinics in Florida investigated by our newsroom several years ago.  So the procedure is widely discussed and widely debated on Instagram. Some women defend their decision or desire to make a change. ("Treat yourself, sis! Get a snatched waist and a fat booty.") Others condemn the trend as dangerous and a slap to body positivity. ("Fake curves aren't worth the time, money or endangering your life. Love the body God blessed you with.") This discussion goes on particularly in Black corners of the platform.  But let me be clear one more time: women of all races and ethnicities are seeking this surgery. So some of this discourse is about non-Black women culturally appropriating the often-natural body shape of Black women with curves and larger derrières. Bootylicious. These are Black women, like Beyoncé, who were once shunned when "thin" was in. Now, people will pay money to take on the same physique that was once part of Black women's identity. (By the way, the "Brazilian" part isn't about Brazilian culture, just the doctor who first did the procedure.) Then there's the long-term question. Any trend comes an end. Many on social media have already declared that the BBL craze is dead after speculating that the Kardashians have, ahem, downsized.  That means women may have put themselves at risk to take on a shape they only thought they wanted.  I don't profess to know what McGee wanted. And we still don't know everything about how she came to be on that street in Mexico. More than anything, I'm saddened that McGee was in harm's way if it was for a BBL. I'm saddened to think that she now knows two of her friends are dead. Authorities say they're still investigating in Matamoros. Yes, perhaps the group would never have been there if not for a BBL. No, it also may not be fair to blame anything on that.  But put aside what happened in Mexico. Whoever you are, if you are white or Black – but maybe especially if you are a Black woman, scrolling through your social media feed and seeing BBL posts yet again – there are plenty of other reasons to ask. Is it worth it?  Suzette Hackney is a national columnist. Reach her on Twitter: @suzyscribe. https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2023/03/11/mexico-kidnapping-lets-be-clear-black-women-questions-bbl/11436350002/   #repost