Why Some Women Notice Smell After a BBL

Some patients recovering from Brazilian butt lift surgery report an unexpected and unpleasant odour during the early stages of healing, raising concerns about whether it is a normal part of recovery or a sign of complications.

At Kenyatta National Hospital, Dr Benjamin Wabwire, head of plastic and reconstructive surgery, says post-operative odour is a recognised occurrence after buttock augmentation. He explains that it most commonly appears within the first week, as the body responds to surgical trauma and manages excess fluid.

During a Brazilian butt lift, large volumes of fluid are introduced, and areas where fat is removed are left with empty spaces. The body produces serum to fill these areas, and this fluid can collect beneath the skin. Patients are usually advised to have post-surgical massages to help drain the fluid. 

Dr Wabwire notes that serum naturally has a smell, but a strong or worsening odour may indicate infection. When this occurs, proteins in the fluid can break down and release sulphur compounds, producing a foul scent.

Odour may also result from fat necrosis, a condition in which some of the transferred fat cells do not survive. As these cells break down, they can produce an unpleasant smell that adds to discomfort during recovery.

Hygiene challenges in the early recovery period can further contribute to the problem. Many patients are limited to sponge baths rather than full showers, while compression garments worn to support healing may trap sweat and fluid. If these garments are not cleaned and dried properly, they can develop strong odours.

Dr Wabwire says the issue is usually temporary and resolves within one to two weeks as healing progresses and fluid levels stabilise. However, he advises patients to seek medical review if the smell persists or becomes stronger, as this may signal infection or other complications that require treatment.