A Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) is a cosmetic surgical procedure that enhances the buttocks’ shape and size by transferring a patient’s own fat. This involves liposuction to remove fat from areas like the abdomen or thighs, then injecting it into the buttocks. Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common viral infection causing painful blisters or ulcers, with HSV-1 typically causing oral herpes and HSV-2 primarily associated with genital herpes. The safety of undergoing an elective procedure like a BBL with HSV, especially during an active outbreak, is a valid concern.
Herpes and General Surgical Risk
Any surgical procedure places stress on the body and requires a healthy immune system for proper healing. An active infection, regardless of its type, can elevate the risk of complications during and after surgery. The body’s immune response to an active infection can divert resources away from wound healing, potentially leading to delayed recovery. An active viral outbreak, such as herpes, can increase the chances of poor wound healing and post-operative infections, as the virus can compromise skin integrity and immune defenses. Medical professionals advise postponing elective surgeries if a patient has any active infection to minimize these general surgical risks.
Considerations for Brazilian Butt Lift Procedures
When considering a Brazilian Butt Lift, an active herpes outbreak introduces specific considerations. A BBL involves liposuction to harvest fat from donor areas and then injecting that fat into the buttocks. An active herpes outbreak, whether oral or genital, near these surgical sites presents a direct risk. The potential for viral spread to the surgical sites, including fat harvest or injection areas, is a significant concern. This can increase the risk of wound infection, compromise healing, and potentially lead to more severe skin infections or scarring. Elective cosmetic surgeries are postponed during an active outbreak to mitigate these risks and ensure the best possible outcome.
Navigating Pre-Operative Planning
For individuals with herpes considering a BBL, transparent communication with the plastic surgeon during the initial consultation is important. The surgeon will assess the patient’s history of outbreaks, including frequency and severity, to determine the safest approach. Surgeons may recommend antiviral medication, such as acyclovir, famciclovir, or valacyclovir, before and potentially after the procedure, especially for patients with a history of frequent outbreaks. This prophylactic treatment aims to suppress the virus and reduce the likelihood of a surgery-triggered outbreak. If an active herpes outbreak occurs close to the scheduled surgery date, the procedure will be postponed until the lesions have fully healed to avoid complications.