Key Takeaways
- If you’re combining liposuction with a Brazilian butt lift, schedule the liposuction first to harvest fat and allow donor sites to settle prior to transfer. That will help improve your graft success and contouring.
- Anticipate a phased recovery timeline with liposuction swelling subsiding within weeks and ultimate BBL fat retention evaluated at three months post-op. Schedule downtime and appointments accordingly.
- Select a seasoned surgeon who observes safety protocols and a trusted fat handling method to optimize transfer survival and reduce complications.
- Get your body ready by getting healthy, quitting smoking, and adhering strictly to pre-op instructions to minimize risk and maximize healing.
- Follow your post-op care instructions including positional restrictions and a slow return to activity to safeguard your grafted fat and achieve your new shape!
- Talk through expectations and backup plans with your surgeon to make a decision that is right for you.
Liposuction first, then BBL. Surgeons typically use fat removal first to contour the torso and to gather graft material for injection.

When it depends on your health, recovery, and available fat. When combined, the risk is higher, so most teams in the know advocate separate sessions that are weeks to months apart.
The body of the post details what goes into the decision and how the recovery unfolds.
Conclusion
Liposuction vs BBL Which First? Decide Based on Goals and Safety For the majority, get liposuction first. Liposuction sculpts donor areas. It provides distinct fat quality for a BBL. Surgeons can evaluate fat viability and select optimal grafts. Wait a minimum of three months post-liposuction. Scar tissue and swelling subside. Fat transfer holds up better. If you require significant contour work as well, some teams schedule staged procedures or utilize different graft sources. Talk medical history, body fat, and recovery with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Request specific timelines, realistic outcomes, and photos of similar cases. Schedule a consultation. Book a consult and come armed with notes on your goals and health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which procedure should come first: liposuction or Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)?
Liposuction usually goes first. You have to liposuction fat to harvest for a BBL. Surgeons typically do liposuction to harvest and prepare fat, then inject it into the buttocks during the same or a staged procedure.
Can I have liposuction and BBL done in one surgery?
Yes. Most surgeons do both in one sitting. Pairing procedures lessens your total downtime, but it can raise your surgical risk. Discuss health, objectives, and safety with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
How long should I wait between separate liposuction and BBL surgeries?
If staged, wait a minimum of 3 to 6 months. This gives donor areas a chance to recover and swelling to subside. Your surgeon will advise on timing depending on healing, fat quality, and safety.
Which is safer: doing both procedures together or staging them?
Safety is contingent on your health, the surgeon’s experience, and operative time. For healthy patients, combined procedures are common and safe with experienced teams. Staging can reduce risk for patients with medical issues.
How does the order affect final results?
Liposuction first contours and provides fat for transfer. Liposuction first enhances your grafting options and can mean better contour and proportion in your final result.
Will combining procedures change recovery time?
Combining can translate to one recovery, but it might feel more intense. Anticipate two to four weeks of downtime and six to eight weeks of limited activity. Adhere to post-op directions.
How do I choose a qualified surgeon for liposuction and BBL?
Find a board-certified plastic surgeon with dedicated BBL experience, before-and-afters, and patient testimonials. Inquire about complication rates, safety protocols, and fat grafting techniques during consultation.