The Brazilian butt lift surgery or BBL is defined by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery as ‘a specialized fat transfer procedure that augments the size and shape of the buttocks without implants’. While members of all ethnic and racial groups get cosmetic surgery, BBLs have become increasingly popular among Black women.
The number of BBLs performed has been growing significantly. In 2020, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported an estimated 396,105 people had buttock augmentation surgery, and the trend has been on the rise since 2015, with a 90.3% increase between 2015 and 2019.
While BBLs are becoming more common, so are the issues associated with the procedure. One of the side effects is pungent smell coming from the backside. One woman describes her horrifying story on social media.
In a series of videos, TikToker @kaymontana24 opened up about the physical and emotional toll her BBL took on her life, including a lingering odor that ultimately led to the end of her relationship—and having the procedure surgically reversed.
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Montana, 39, was left smelling of “rotten flesh” after her BBL. And the smell was so pungent that it seeped through her clothes and lingered everywhere that she sat down.
Her stench got so bad that it even endured on her clothes AFTER hot laundry cycles, escalating to the point that her boyfriend dumped her.
She has bravely shared her story on TikTok as a warning to other women considering BBLs.
Kay described her “sit down air” as “stinking real bad” in one video which has totted up five million views.
The mother of three started using gauze and bandages to control the leakage, but things got so bad that she was still wearing jeans at the height of summer in Pennsylvania.
“It got to the point where I had to carry around a bottle of air freshener or a bottle of perfume because when I would use public restrooms, it would stink so bad,” she explained.
The smell would linger.
Kay’s relationship broke down when her long-term partner revealed that he could ‘no longer stomach’ the stench coming from her body
“That BBL really ruined my life,” she said. “My sit-down air was stinking real real bad…”
The woman explained that the source of the smell wasn’t poor hygiene, but persistent leakage from her incisions, which failed to properly heal. She said her body rejected the procedure, leaving open wounds that continuously drained foul-smelling fluid—so that the stench lingered on her clothes, linens, and even fresh laundry.
“It got to a point where I would even be washing my laundry weekly, like I’d been doing before I got the BBL, but when I would get my laundry out of the dryer, it would still smell like rotten flesh.”
What Causes the “BBL Smell”?
Infections
Infection is a common risk associated with any surgical procedure, including the Brazilian Butt Lift. Some of the primary causes of infection after BBL surgery include:
Improper Surgical Technique:
If the surgeon does not follow strict sterile protocols or makes errors during the procedure, it can increase the risk of infection.
Poor Wound Healing:
Factors such as poor circulation, underlying medical conditions, or excessive swelling can slow down the healing process and make the incision sites more vulnerable to infection.
Lack of Proper Aftercare:
Neglecting to follow the surgeon’s post-operative instructions, such as maintaining proper hygiene and avoiding certain activities, can contribute to the development of an infection.
Contamination:
If the surgical site becomes exposed to bacteria or other contaminants, it can lead to an infection.
Preventive Tips to Avoid the BBL Smell
Some simple steps can help avoid complications and reduce the propensity for unseemly odors from your BBL.
Maintain Good General Hygiene
Shower regularly with lukewarm water, gently cleansing the area with a fragrance-free cleanser recommended by your surgeon. Pat the skin dry with a clean towel and frequently change your bedsheets and clothing to prevent moisture and bacteria accumulation.
Maintain Proper Hygiene After Using the Restroom
Use gentle, fragrance-free wet wipes or a bidet to cleanse the area thoroughly after bowel movements and urination. Change your underwear and any clothing that comes into contact with the incision sites frequently to prevent bacterial growth.
Diligent Post-operative Care
Follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions meticulously. Gently cleanse the incision sites as directed using the recommended solution. Change your dressings regularly to keep the area dry and prevent bacteria accumulation. Wear loose, breathable clothing to promote airflow and minimize irritation.
Antibacterial Products
Your surgeon may suggest using antibacterial soap or wipes to cleanse the incision sites. These products can help control bacterial growth and reduce odor. However, always follow your surgeon’s specific recommendations and avoid using chemicals or fragrances that can irritate the skin and stifle the healing process.
Avoid Tight Clothing
Opt for loose-fitting, breathable garments made from natural materials like cotton. Tight clothing traps sweat and can irritate the incisions, potentially contributing to odor development.
Treat Quickly
Contact your surgeon promptly if you experience a persistent or strong BBL smell accompanied by other concerning symptoms. They may prescribe antibiotics to address potential infection or recommend surgical intervention to drain fluid buildup or abscesses. Attending all your scheduled follow-up appointments is crucial for monitoring your healing progress and addressing any concerns.
Symptoms to Look for Before the BBL Smell
It’s essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of infection after your BBL surgery. These may include:
- Persistent pain, swelling, or redness at the surgical site
- Fever or chills
- Increased drainage or discharge from the incisions
- Foul-smelling odor from the surgical area
- Warmth or heat around the incisions
- Flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue or body aches
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your surgeon immediately for proper evaluation and treatment.
