Brazilian Butt Lift vs. The Gym
"She didn't need a BBL. She could've just went to the gym."
A BBL, also known as a “Brazilian Butt Lift”, is a cosmetic surgery that removes unwanted fat from areas of the body, such as the stomach and love handles; and then injects the fat into the butt.
There are other lower body enhancement procedures, such as butt implants and injections (butt shots), but BBLs have seen a rise in popularity. Despite it’s popularity, it’s existence remains controversial. Many people insist that resistance training in the gym can give BBL-like results.
But is this really true?
Short answer: Kinda sorta. Both will enhance your shape, but there are some clear differences and limitations present in both options. Before we dive in, I need to apologize to my readers outside of the United States. BBLs are performed globally, but to keep this blog brief, they’re discussed from an American perspective, at certain points.
If you’re considering a BBL or you’re just curious about the procedure, check out how it matches up to the gym below!
Category: Health Benefits
The BBL
While it’s mainly a cosmetic procedure, a BBL can offer some mental health benefits. Having a BBL performed can increase confidence and satisfaction with your shape. Self-satisfaction can result in improved mood and decreased self-consciousness.
Keep in mind: the results of a BBL don’t last forever. It’s a semi-permanent procedure, with results typically lasting 5-10 years. Results can be maximized, ironically, by going to the gym and practicing a healthy diet. If you do what it takes to maintain a quality BBL—consistently going to the gym and practicing balanced eating—you’ll also get the health benefits the gym provides.
The Gym
Resistance training has many health benefits. Like a BBL, it can improve your mental health. It most specifically can improve symptoms of anxiety and depression. Also, resistance training can help strengthen bones, improve your ability to perform everyday tasks, improve your memory and brain health, aid in overall weight management, and protect against chronic disease. Keep in mind: If you decide to incorporate a healthier diet along with the gym, there are even more benefits.
Category: Safety
The BBL
A BBL comes with some serious risks, including death. The procedure is two-part: fat removal through liposuction, then the fat is inserted into the butt. The riskiest part is during the fat insertion. Many BBL complications occur when the fat is accidentally injected into a blood vessel—not the subcutaneous region of the butt. If the fat gets into the bloodstream it is known as a fat embolism and can lead to death.
In 2017, the Aesthetic Surgery Education and Research Foundation (ASERF) introduced new guidelines to improve the safety of BBL procedures. The guidelines seem to have been effective because in a 2019 study, the BBL mortality rate had decreased to 1 in 15,000. This puts it on par with several other cosmetic procedures. In 2022, it may even be less risky.
If you’re considering a BBL, be sure to have the procedure performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon—preferably, one who is experienced in performing the procedure.
The Gym
The gym also comes with risk. Improper resistance training can cause strain, muscle damage, broken bones, tears—and though rare—death. It’s important to use proper form and practice a resistance training program that is balanced. This will help minimize the risk of injuries. If you’re unsure of how to structure a safe and effective regimen, work with a personal trainer.
Category: Shape Change
The BBL
This is probably the section you’re most interested in. BBLs and the gym are similar in the sense that they both can create a better butt. However, there are some limitations when it comes to the gym.
A BBL is a combination of liposuction and fat injection. It requires taking fat from different areas of the body and injecting that fat into your butt. As a result, a well-done BBL should look balanced and symmetrical. If you have hip dips, a surgeon can add padding to create fullness and get rid of them.
The Gym
Consistent resistance training can create amazing results, but it’s not a surgeon. Hip dips often occur because of bone length and skeletal anatomy. They can’t be “fixed” with the gym (FYI: they don’t need to be fixed. It’s completely natural. Relax!) The bottom line: The gym will give you the best results within the limitations of your genetics and skeletal anatomy. Now, before you say, “f*ck the gym,” be mindful that genetics are tricky! You don’t know what your body will do with the help of the gym, until you consistently train hard and smart, eat appropriately, and do these things for the long-term.
Category: Accessibility
The BBL
A BBL performed by an experienced board-certified surgeon in the United States costs up to $15000. This is relatively expensive. Some women choose to travel abroad to have the procedure performed at a cheaper rate. Keep in mind: experts do not support this route. This is for many reasons including,
Varying guidelines, regulations, and health standards abroad
Recommended resting time and travel restrictions after the procedure
Ongoing care that may be necessary post-procedure
The Gym
A gym membership is relatively inexpensive. Standard gyms, like Planet Fitness, cost $120 a year ($10 a month). Mid-tier gyms, such as LA Fitness and Gold’s Gym, cost roughly $420 a year ($35 a month). Luxury and upscale gyms, including Lifetime, cost $1800 per year ($150 a month). Of course, these prices can fluctuate, depending on location. The bottom line: gyms are accessible at varying price points and they’re essentially everywhere.
My only goal with this post was to be informative and present a balanced perspective about both options. Ultimately, the choice of what to do with your body is YOUR choice.
