The other day, I asked my 16-year-old son a question that made him look at me like I had completely lost my mind. I said, “Do you think your mom needs a bigger butt? Maybe even a BBL?” To be honest, I asked half-jokingly — and in my naivety, I didn’t think he’d even know what a BBL was.
But he didn’t even let me finish before blurting out, “Mom! No!” I couldn’t help but laugh. His reaction was priceless – shock, confusion, and teenage horror. That moment made me laugh, but it also got me thinking. Why are we so fascinated by the idea of a “perfect” butt? And more importantly, what does perfect even mean?
The Bigger Butt Conversation
There’s no denying that BBLs and curvier shapes have become the beauty standard in our social media-driven world. Everywhere you look, there’s a new post about someone getting “snatched,” “lifted,” or “sculpted.” And I’ll admit, it’s tempting! Who wouldn’t want a little “lift” without all the squats? But before you go booking a consultation, here’s a thought:
Do You Really Need a Bigger Butt, or even a BBL?
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. For some, getting a BBL can be a confidence boost, something that helps them feel more beautiful in their own skin. For others, it’s simply not a priority.
So would I ever recommend a BBL? Well, like most things in life, it depends. If you’ve done your research, understand the risks, can afford the cost, and truly believe it will make you feel more confident, then that’s your personal choice. Your body belongs to you.
On the other hand, if you’re happy with what you’ve got and prefer to embrace your body as it is, that’s wonderful too. Confidence doesn’t come from surgery or squats alone. It comes from self-acceptance and self-care.
If you’re thinking about having one done, that’s your choice — just make sure it’s truly your choice. Not something driven by social media trends, pressure, or comparison.
What to Consider before Getting a BBL
I’m not here to talk anyone out of it or into it. But I do encourage anyone considering surgery to take time to prepare — really prepare.
So, here are a few things to think about before making that decision:
1. Do your research.
2. Choose a qualified, board-certified surgeon. Experience and safety matter more than price or popularity.
3. Plan time and resources for recovery. Healing takes time, and post-surgery care is essential.
4. Be realistic. Every “body” is different, and results may not match what you see online.
5. Check your motivation. Make sure you’re doing it for yourself—not to meet someone else’s expectation.
There’s no judgment either way, but informed, intentional choices are always the healthiest ones.
What are Some of the Upsides of Getting a BBL?
1. You can enhance your shape and boost your confidence.
2. The procedure uses your own fat, not implants, making results feel more natural.
3. Your results can last many years if you maintain a healthy lifestyle.
4. Your new butt can be an added motivation to exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle, so you don’t lose the results you spent so much money and recovery time to get.
What are Some of the Downsides of Getting a BBL?
1. It’s still surgery, with all the risks that come with it, including infection and fat embolism (a rare but serious complication).
2. It requires significant post-op care, and recovery can be long and uncomfortable.
3. Results aren’t guaranteed to last forever and may change over time with weight fluctuations.
4. And yes, it’s expensive.
That’s why it’s so important to be clear about your expectations — and your reasons.
Health, Confidence, and Seasons of Life
I have so much respect for women who take charge of their bodies, whether through fitness, surgery, or simply choosing self-acceptance. Empowerment looks different for everyone.
But let’s also remember that true beauty radiates from within. It isn’t just about what we see in the mirror. It’s about how we feel — physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
As many of us enter our 40s and 50s, our priorities often shift. We start thinking less about the size of our butt and more about the state of our heart, blood sugar, cholesterol, and peace of mind. It’s not that we don’t care how we look, but some other things, especially our health and wellness, have risen to the top of our priorities. It’s a different season, and that’s okay. There’s a time for everything.
A Natural Lift That Lasts
And if you’re wondering whether there’s any benefit to working for that butt, yes — exercise still matters. Those squats, lunges, and glute bridges may not give you a “BBL butt,” but they will lift, tone, and strengthen. More importantly, they help you move with power, confidence, and grace.
Research has shown time and time again that exercises like squats, hip thrusts, and other exercises that target your gluteus maximus will give you a bigger butt. But let’s not stop there! Exercise does more than shape your butt. Strength training, especially, can improve your muscle tone, metabolism, and even your mood.
And when you exercise regularly, eat well, and care for your mental and spiritual health, you’re doing more than shaping your body. You’re building the foundation for a vibrant, fulfilling life.
To learn more about the health and wellness benefits of exercise, check out “Exercise: A Path to Better Health for Women Over Forty.”
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose to enhance your curves or embrace them as they are, the most important thing is happiness. Do what makes you feel good, strong, and confident—in your body and soul.
Because true empowerment isn’t about trends or comparisons; it’s about making choices that align with your values and your joy. Choices that show that you love yourself, your health, and your life.
And as for my 16-year-old, the one who apparently knows more about BBLs than I ever imagined, I can’t help but smile and wonder what else he knows now. It’s one of those quiet realizations every mom has when her son starts growing into a young man. There’s curiosity, a little bit of fear, and a lot of love. For now, I’ll just take comfort in the fact that at least when it comes to his mom’s butt, he’s totally fine with it the way it is.
So, back to the original question: Do you really need a bigger butt? Only you can answer that. What truly matters is that your decision—whether it’s to get a BBL, build strength through exercise, or embrace your body as it is—comes from you, not from social media, not from trends, and definitely not from anyone else’s opinion.
At the end of the day, true beauty isn’t just about how we look — it’s about how we live: with confidence, purpose, and peace in who we are.
That same belief runs through every page of my book, The Empowered Introvert. I wrote it as a reminder that confidence doesn’t always shout — sometimes it simply stands tall, quiet but unshakable, knowing its worth.
If you’ve ever wrestled with self-doubt or comparison, this book is for you.
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Do you think our culture’s focus on body shape is empowering or exhausting? Share in the comments below.
Finally, if this post resonated with you, send it to a friend who might need the reminder.
Yours in health, fitness, and wellness,
Doctor Abi
About the Author
Dr. Abi is a physician, wellness advocate, and author of The Empowered Introvert. She helps women live with grace, strength, and authenticity — nurturing health in mind, body, and spirit. Follow her for more real talk about wellness, purpose, and living well at every age.