What Are the Common Causes of Dark or Raised BBL Scars?

A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a popular cosmetic procedure that enhances the shape and volume of the buttocks using the patient's own fat. While many patients achieve smooth and natural-looking results, some experience scarring that is dark or raised. Understanding the common causes of BBL scars can help patients take preventive measures and achieve optimal healing. In this article, we explore the factors that contribute to BBL scars, how to manage them, and ways to reduce their appearance.

What Is BBL Surgery?

BBL surgery, or Brazilian Butt Lift, is a cosmetic procedure that involves liposuction to remove excess fat from areas like the abdomen, thighs, or flanks. The extracted fat is then purified and injected into the buttocks to enhance volume and contour. Unlike implants, BBL surgery uses autologous fat transfer, making it a natural augmentation method. However, like any surgical procedure, BBL surgery carries the risk of scarring, which can become dark, raised, or textured over time.

Common Causes of Dark or Raised BBL Scars

1. Poor Wound Healing

One of the primary causes of BBL scars is poor wound healing. Several factors contribute to delayed healing, including inadequate post-surgical care, poor nutrition, and pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders. When wounds take longer to heal, there is a higher chance of scar tissue becoming raised or hyperpigmented.

2. Excessive Tension on Incisions

While BBL surgery primarily involves fat transfer, small incisions are made for liposuction. If these incisions experience excessive tension, such as from sitting too soon after surgery or wearing tight clothing, the scars may become hypertrophic (raised) or stretch beyond their natural healing line, leading to darker pigmentation.

3. Post-Surgical Infections

Infections are a significant risk after any surgery, including BBL surgery. If bacteria enter the incisions, it can lead to inflammation and prolonged healing, resulting in dark or raised BBL scars. Proper wound care, cleanliness, and following the surgeon’s post-operative instructions are essential to preventing infections.

4. Genetic Predisposition to Keloids or Hypertrophic Scarring

Some individuals are genetically predisposed to forming keloid or hypertrophic scars. These types of scars occur when the body produces excessive collagen during the healing process, causing scars to become raised and darker than the surrounding skin. Patients with a family history of keloid formation should discuss their concerns with their surgeon before undergoing BBL surgery.

5. Sun Exposure During Healing

UV exposure can darken scars and make them more noticeable. Newly formed scar tissue is more sensitive to sunlight, and excessive sun exposure can lead to hyperpigmentation. Patients recovering from BBL surgery should avoid direct sun exposure on the incision sites and use sunscreen to prevent darkening of BBL scars.

6. Smoking and Poor Blood Circulation

Smoking restricts blood flow and reduces oxygen supply to healing tissues, increasing the risk of poor wound healing and raised scars. Nicotine can also impair collagen production, leading to uneven healing. Patients undergoing BBL surgery should avoid smoking before and after the procedure to minimize scarring risks.

7. Insufficient Post-Surgical Skincare

Proper post-surgical skincare is crucial for reducing BBL scars. If patients fail to moisturize, massage, or use prescribed topical treatments such as silicone gels or scar creams, their scars may become more pronounced. Gentle massaging of the scar area (after full healing) can help break down excess collagen and smooth out raised scars.

8. Overactivity Too Soon After Surgery

Strenuous activities, including heavy exercise and prolonged sitting, can cause tension on the healing incisions. This tension can lead to widened, raised, or dark scars. Patients should follow their surgeon’s guidelines on when to resume physical activity to prevent complications with BBL scars.

9. Allergic Reactions to Sutures or Dressings

Some individuals may have allergic reactions to surgical sutures, tapes, or dressings, leading to inflammation and irritation. Prolonged inflammation can cause scarring to become darker or thicker than usual. If signs of irritation persist, patients should consult their surgeon for alternative dressing materials.

How to Prevent and Reduce BBL Scars

1. Follow Post-Surgical Instructions

Strictly following the aftercare instructions provided by your surgeon is the best way to prevent excessive scarring. Proper wound cleaning, moisturizing, and avoiding unnecessary strain on the surgical site can significantly reduce scar formation.

2. Keep Incisions Moisturized

Applying medical-grade silicone gels, vitamin E oil, or recommended scar creams can help keep scars soft and less noticeable. Hydrated skin heals more effectively, reducing the chance of raised or dark BBL scars.

3. Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing

Tight clothing can put pressure on healing incisions, causing irritation and potentially worsening scars. Loose-fitting clothes allow the skin to breathe and heal without friction.

4. Protect Scars from Sun Exposure

Using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on healed scars can prevent hyperpigmentation. Patients should also avoid tanning beds and prolonged sun exposure while healing.

5. Massage Scar Tissue (After Healing)

Once the incisions have fully healed, gentle massaging can help break down excess collagen and reduce raised scar tissue. Patients should consult their surgeon before starting any massage techniques.

6. Consider Professional Treatments

If scars remain dark or raised, treatments like laser therapy, microneedling, or chemical peels can help improve their appearance. Consulting a dermatologist or cosmetic specialist can provide more targeted solutions.

7. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

A balanced diet rich in vitamins A, C, and E supports collagen production and healthy skin regeneration. Staying hydrated and avoiding smoking further enhances skin healing and minimizes scarring.

Final Thoughts

Scarring is a natural part of the healing process after BBL surgery, but there are ways to prevent and minimize dark or raised BBL scars. By understanding the common causes—such as poor wound healing, infections, sun exposure, and genetic factors—patients can take proactive steps to ensure smoother, less noticeable scars. Following post-operative care instructions, keeping the skin moisturized, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking can significantly improve healing outcomes. If scars persist, professional treatments can offer further improvement. With proper care, patients can enjoy the enhanced curves from their BBL surgery with minimal scarring.