What is a Liquid BBL? And why did it cause a young mother to die?

A Liquid BBL (Brazilian Butt Lift) is a cosmetic procedure that uses dermal fillers to enhance the size and shape of the buttocks without surgery. Unlike the traditional BBL, which uses fat transfer from other areas of the body, a liquid BBL involves injecting fillers like hyaluronic acid or collagen into the buttocks to create a fuller, more contoured appearance. This procedure is marketed as a quicker, less invasive alternative to surgical BBLs and has gained popularity for patients seeking body enhancement without undergoing major surgery. This procedure has a high complication rate and recently the British Plastic Surgeons were asked to pause this procedure. They have also been advised to avoid deep filler injections and only use a technique that involves superficial filler placement and using ultrasound to guide them, to help minimise the risks of this procedure.

Liquid Brazilian Butt Lifts carry many risks.

Risks and Complications of Liquid BBL

While liquid BBL is promoted as a non-surgical and minimally invasive option, it carries significant risks and potential complications, many of which are similar to those found in surgical procedures. Here are some of the most common risks:

1. Infection: Any procedure involving injections poses a risk of infection. If bacteria enter the body through the injection sites, it can lead to painful, swollen areas that may require further medical intervention.

2. Filler Migration: Dermal fillers can migrate away from the injection site, creating an uneven appearance or lumps in other areas. This can be difficult to correct and may require additional treatments to fix.

3. Necrosis: In rare but serious cases, the filler may block blood vessels, cutting off blood flow to the surrounding tissues. This can result in tissue death (necrosis), which can cause severe complications and permanent scarring.

4. Allergic Reactions: Some patients may experience allergic reactions to the filler material. Symptoms can include redness, swelling, and discomfort, and in severe cases, an allergic reaction could lead to anaphylaxis, which is life-threatening.

5. Embolism: One of the most dangerous complications occurs if the filler enters a blood vessel and travels to the heart or lungs, causing a fat embolism. This is a medical emergency and can be fatal.

6. Lack of Regulation: Liquid BBLs are largely unregulated in many areas, meaning that non-medical practitioners often perform these procedures. This lack of regulation increases the risk of unsafe practices, including the use of non-sterile equipment or incorrect injection techniques, both of which can lead to serious health issues.

Why Choosing a Safe Practitioner is Important

Given the high risks involved, it’s crucial to choose a qualified, medically trained professional for any cosmetic procedure, especially those involving injections like a Liquid BBL. Here’s why:

• Medical Knowledge: A certified doctor with experience in aesthetic procedures understands the anatomy, how to avoid complications, and can recognize potential issues before they become serious. This knowledge is especially important when dealing with high-risk areas, like the buttocks, where large blood vessels are present.

• Use of Advanced Techniques: In my practice, while I don’t offer Liquid BBLs, I use ultrasound technology for injectable treatments. This allows me to visualize the tissues beneath the skin and avoid blood vessels, reducing the risk of complications like embolism. This kind of technology is rarely used by non-medical practitioners, even though it significantly improves safety.

• Sterile Environment: I always use sterile packs for each treatment, which ensures that equipment and products are not contaminated and the risk of infection is minimized. I also only use single-use needles and fillers, eliminating the potential for cross-contamination, a practice that is not guaranteed with non-medical injectors.

• Emergency Expertise: With over 20 years of medical experience and a background as an emergency doctor, I am trained to act quickly and effectively if complications arise. Non-medical practitioners may not have the same level of training or experience to respond appropriately in an emergency situation.

• GMC Governance: As a GMC-registered doctor, I am held to strict medical regulations that ensure I follow best practices for patient safety. Non-medical practitioners are not bound by these regulations, which is why it’s essential to always choose someone who is accountable to professional medical standards.

  
  

My Approach to Body Treatments

Although I do not offer Liquid BBLs, I provide other body treatments that prioritize safety and effectiveness. My focus is always on delivering natural results while using techniques that minimize risks. Whether it's skin tightening, fat reduction, or other non-invasive treatments, my patients’ safety and satisfaction are my top priorities.

If you're considering any cosmetic procedure, it’s vital to thoroughly research your practitioner and ensure they are medically qualified. Your health and safety should always come first, and choosing the right professional can make all the difference. Book a consultation today to discuss safe, effective treatment options tailored to your needs. Email drkimbooysen@gmail.com or call 07553192744.