BBL smell has been a trending topic on social media, but the wild stories can cause more confusion than clarity. This blog discusses what exactly BBL smell is, its causes, and how to prevent it.
What Is BBL Smell?
A new trend in plastic surgery discourse has emerged: the BBL smell. With influencers, celebrities, and everyone else chiming in on social media, it’s hard to know if this phenomenon is real—especially since it sounds so strange.
Essentially, people are claiming that there’s a strange, temporary side effect after a Brazilian Butt Lift: a mysterious smell that’s been described as “musty” or “rancid.” While not overpowering, it is noticeable, and yes, the BBL smell is real.
However, it’s not always present and can be avoided. We’ll break it down below.
What Causes BBL Smell?
Make no mistake: BBL smell is an uncommon issue. BBLs are performed in sterile, safe environments, and when postoperative care is appropriate, it’s not an issue for most patients.
In fact, the BBL smell is not due to the surgery itself, but the postoperative process. Common causes of BBL smell include: bacterial overgrowth, poor hygiene, infection, and fat necrosis.
Bacterial Overgrowth
Sometimes during recovery, bacteria can overgrow on the skin’s surface, causing an unpleasant odor. A very common side effect of liposuction, a key part of the BBL process, is fluid accumulation. It’s not uncommon for fluid to release through liposuction incisions during the healing process. If this is not properly managed, a combination of this moisture, heat, and friction can cause bacterial growth and result in a smell.
The Solution: Following proper aftercare of your incisions and surgical area is key. Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to care for your incisions, when and how to bathe, etc.
Hygiene Challenges
For patients who desire a large increase in their buttock size, this change can pose certain surprising challenges during the recovery period. Patients often have limited mobility after a BBL, making it difficult to sufficiently clean after using the bathroom, resulting in bacterial growth and unwanted smells.
The Solution: Investing in a bidet can help keep you clean while you adjust to your new derriere, or using hygienic wipes to ensure optimum cleanliness.
Infection and Fat Necrosis
In rare, unfortunate cases, infection and fat necrosis can be the cause of an unpleasant smell post-BBL; however, these issues are often accompanied by alarming health concerns such as pain and redness at the incision sites, painful lumps in the newly transferred fat, and fever.
The Solution: Monitor for signs of infection and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of illness during recovery.
How Can I Prevent BBL Smell?
BBL smell does not have to happen to you; You can get your dream bod and booty without worrying about smelling bad, just follow these tips!
Maintain Good Hygiene
Be sure to follow all guidelines after BBL surgery. Shower regularly with a gentle cleanser recommended by your surgeon. Carefully cleansing and drying the area with a clean towel and frequently changing your bedsheets and clothing can reduce moisture and bacterial accumulation.
Maintain Proper Hygiene After Using the Restroom
Do your best to thoroughly clean after using the restroom. If mobility is an issue, a bidet can help immensely. Be sure to change your undergarments and anything that comes into contact with the incision sites as well.
Launder Your Compression Garments
Another key issue causing the BBL smell is unclean compression garments. While it is essential to wear them as directed by your surgeon (usually day and night), they can get dirty fast, especially if fluid is leaking from your incisions. It’s highly recommended that you invest in more than one compression garment, allowing you to have one to wear while washing the other. We recommend washing your compression garments once every 24 hours to avoid bacterial growth.
Follow Post-surgical Instructions
Your surgeon will supply you with everything you need to know about having a safe and effective recovery process, including when you can shower, how often to wear your garments, and how to clean your incisions. Follow the instructions as closely as possible, and always contact your surgeon’s office if you have any questions. Better safe than smelly!
Want to Learn More About Brazilian Butt Lifts in Miami, FL?
Don’t fear the BBL smell: call the BBL experts at 4Beauty by Mendieta at (305) 860-0717 and learn how our surgeons can create the perfect peach for you.