
Dreaming of a fuller, lifted backside, but the surgery required sounds like a nightmare to you? You’re not alone! More and more people want less invasive ways to enhance their curves, and the non-surgical Brazilian butt lift (BBL) has become a favorite at Grace + Beauty Medical Spa for just that.
While the traditional BBL involves surgery and downtime, the non-surgical treatment using Sculptra offers a more approachable path to sculpted results: no incisions, anesthesia, or long recovery required.
In this blog, we’re breaking down the key differences between non-surgical options and traditional BBLs, so you can decide which option fits your goals, lifestyle, and comfort level.
What is a traditional BBL?
A traditional BBL is a surgical procedure that removes fat from areas like the stomach, thighs, or back using liposuction. This fat is then injected into the buttocks to improve the size and shape of the backside.
While a traditional, surgical BBL gives you power and control in sculpting the buttocks, it does require downtime, has a lengthy recovery time (around 2 weeks for primary surgery recovery, and 8 weeks for total recovery), and has a potential risk for complications and infections.
What is a non-surgical BBL using Sculptra?
A Sculptra BBL uses a series of injections carefully placed in different areas of the buttocks to stimulate the body’s natural production of collagen and elastin. In the weeks following the treatment, collagen and elastin gradually build up in the area, giving the backside a more lifted appearance while improving the skin’s overall elasticity.
The results become more and more apparent over the months following the Sculptra injections, and they only get better with time. A Sculptra lift requires no liposuction, no healing after the fat harvesting, and no need to sit on those special BBL donut seats post-appointment.
At Grace + Beauty, our patients amplify their Sculptra results by pairing other non-surgical enhancement options with their Sculptra BBL. This includes treatments like EvolveX and Morpheus8. EvolveX helps to build the muscles in the glutes, while Morpheus8 smooths unwanted texture and cellulite on the buttocks.
Sculptra BBL vs. Traditional BBL at a Glance
Sculptra BBLs and surgical BBLs have a lot of differences. We help you assess your goals and lifestyle to choose the best treatment option for you. Here is a breakdown of some of the key differences between these treatments.
Sculptra BBL | Traditional BBL | |
Procedure | Series of quick injections in the office, no anesthesia required | Surgical procedure involving liposuction and fat transfer under anesthesia |
Downtime | Resume normal activities within a day or so, no downtime required | 2 weeks to recover from surgery, with 6 to 8 weeks of downtime required after |
Results Timeline | Gradual improvements over the course of 4 to 6 months as collagen builds | Some swelling after surgery, with final results fully visible a few weeks after healing |
Risk | Nearly no risk when performed by trained professional injectors | Risk for complications during the procedure and infection after the procedure |
Cost | More affordable upfront cost, no surgery or anesthesia required | Higher upfront cost (due to surgery, special doctors required, and anesthesia fees) |
It’s important to consider these differences when determining which treatment best aligns with your goals, needs, and lifestyle. Our team at Grace + Beauty can answer any questions you may have about these treatments and help you figure out which option best meets your needs!

Get Your Curves, Your Way
Choosing between a traditional BBL and a non-surgical Brazilian butt lift ultimately comes down to your goals, daily routine, and comfort with recovery time. If you want to enhance your curves without the commitment of surgery, a Sculptra BBL could fit your needs perfectly.
At Grace + Beauty Medical Spa, we specialize in creating natural-looking curves without the need for surgery, scarring, or downtime. If you’re ready to explore a safer, simpler way to enhance your shape, we’re here to help.
Curious if it’s right for you? Request an appointment with our team and take the next step toward perfectly confident curves, your way.