There is a very public outcry about the large number of botched BBL injections happening across the UK (and around the world). And to say the least, it IS incredibly concerning.
The desire for a curvier and more youthful silhouette has driven too many women to resort to downright dangerous procedures, leading to multiple campaigners urging the government to ban BBL injections.
But is the movement something new? Let’s talk about it.
First We Need To Know What BBL Injections Are
BBL injections refer to non-surgical Brazilian Butt Lifts that use injectable fillers to enhance your buttocks’ appearance.
Traditionally, a surgical BBL involves liposuction to remove fat from certain parts of your body, which is then purified and injected into your bum to create that desired look. However, the invasive nature of this surgery, along with its associated risks and recovery time, has led to the development of non-surgical alternatives like the BBL injections we are discussing today.
But what people still seem to forget, is that non-surgical does not mean sans risk, and no, the BBL crises is not at all new.
Often advertised on social media by predominantly laypeople (like beauticians or hairdressers) and not by healthcare professionals! Any self respecting medical practitioner would never offer this procedure, and that should speak volumes.
Let’s Talk About The Risks
Non-surgical BBL injections involve the introduction of fillers into your glutes to add volume and improve their overall shape, size, and contour. There is a reason why a national ban has been called!
While non-surgical BBL injections might seem fairly simple due to their non-invasive nature, they are indeed anything but simple!
Non-sterile equipment is the number 1 cause of the introduction of bacteria into the body which could lead to infections that may require antibiotics or more invasive interventions.
Incorrect injection techniques can also result in the formation of hard lumps (nodules) or inflammatory reactions (granulomas), which may need medical treatment to resolve. Not to mention uneven injection placement can cause noticeable asymmetry, muscle damage, nerve damage, and even paralysis!
Then, when it comes to poor injection techniques, filler migration, where the injected material moves from the intended area, is a real concern and can cause aesthetic issues or discomfort.
And lastly, skin necrosis. It is a very serious complication that occurs when the filler obstructs your blood vessels, and thus leads to tissue death. Prompt medical intervention is required to address this issue, and if left untreated may lead to kidney failure and even death!
Save Face, a UK-wide register of medical aesthetic practitioners, received 233 reports of botched BBL injections in 2021, with the number rising to 292 in 2022!
In 2023, 350 women sought help from BBL complications within 18 months of receiving the procedure. The reality is, BBL injections done by people with little to NO medical qualifications IS on the rise, and it IS very unsettling.
According to the NHS, BBL injections have the highest death rate of all aesthetic procedures! Yet, the demand for these treatments is increasing exponentially. With an average cost of over £2,000 per treatment, BBL practitioners who have little to zero healthcare experience are shamelessly prioritising profits over patient safety.
About 96% of the patients who reported complications from BBL injections to Save Face were treated by NHS services after being ignored or misadvised by their BBL practitioner.
That is absolutely horrific!
Ultimately
Yes, the world is a better place thanks to the existence of most non-surgical treatment, but BBL injections are not one of them. These injections market themselves as a quick way to enjoy stunning results, when in reality, these injections are without a doubt, dangerous and deadly.
