_11zon-1732005712539.jpg)
Many wish for a perfectly contoured, round, and lifted butt. The Brazilian Butt Lift, or BBL, has gained much popularity for those looking to enhance their curves. While everyone wants to gush about the incredible results, there is one unexpected side effect that few are aware of: the "BBL smell." Yes, there is a strange smell that comes with the surgery. Read ahead to find out about BBL surgery and why it occurs with this unusual side effect.
What Is a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)
A Brazilian Butt Lift is a cosmetic procedure that makes your buttocks appear more full and rounded. The doctor removes fat from other areas of your body, such as your stomach, thighs, or back, through a technique called liposuction. After that, they wash and filter this fat and inject it into your buttocks to give them volume and shape.
Most people prefer BBL because it employs their own fat rather than implants. That gives the results a natural appearance and soft texture. But keep in mind, it is still surgery and involves risks such as pain, swelling, and infection.
What Is The Surprising 'BBL Smell' Side Effect
“The BBL Smell Is Real”: Patient Says Odor Was So Bad She Had Surgery Reversed After A Year
Tiktok has discovered that the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure, which has surpassed even breast enhancement surgery in popularity, comes with an unwelcome side effect: a bad odor.… pic.twitter.com/c8RmlmYXYH
Many have discussed lately about an unusual smell which may occur post BBL surgery. Some patients complain of a pungent, unusual smell emanating from their own bodies while recuperating. But what leads to this odour?
Following fat being transferred and injected during BBL surgery, some of the fat cells do not survive. This is referred to as fat necrosis. When fat cells perish, the body decomposes them, which can produce a sour or pungent odour. It is part of the healing process and typically disappears with time. Apart from fat necrosis, wound and sweat dressings may trap the odour and make it linger. Although the odour is embarrassing, it is harmless and generally subsides when the body heals.
Why Is Everyone Discussing the 'BBL Smell'?
In 2025, most individuals wrote about their experiences with the BBL odour on social media sites such as TikTok. Others made light of it by saying that you could "smell a BBL from across the room." It attracted the attention of the media and medical professionals.
The experts warn everyone to be aware that while the smell is real, it is typically temporary and a normal aspect of recovery. It is also a reminder that cosmetic surgery is not always flawless and can have unintended consequences.
A research study in the Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery journal revealed that fat necrosis occurs in approximately 15% of the patients who undergo BBL. According to the study, when there is cell death in the fat cells, oils and chemicals are secreted that may lead to lumps and smells under the skin.
What Should You Do If You Notice the BBL Smell?
- Stay relaxed: The odour is normal and will typically clear up in a matter of weeks.
- Keep it clean: Care for your wounds as instructed by your doctor.
- Speak to your surgeon: If the odour is intense or persists, visit your doctor to ensure there is no infection.
- Wear loose clothing: This allows your skin to breathe and eliminates trapped sweat or odour.
Conclusion
The Brazilian Butt Lift may provide you with the shape you desire, but you should be aware of all about the procedure, including the sudden "BBL smell" side effect. The smell occurs because some fat cells perish in the process of recovery, and it tends to go away by itself with time. If you're going to have a BBL, discuss every potential side effect with your physician and heed their recommendation precisely. Remember, good care and patience are key to a smooth recovery and great results.