Gluteoplasty: anatomic basis and technique.

BACKGROUND

Although the placement of implants for gluteal augmentation is becoming more common, the procedure still faces strong resistance from patients and some surgeons as a result of unsatisfactory outcomes in the past.

OBJECTIVE

The authors describe easily-identifiable anatomic reference points that can assist the surgeon in the performance of gluteoplasty, making the procedure simpler and safer.

METHODS

Based on a literature review, an anatomic study was performed of dissections of the gluteal region in seven formalinized and fresh cadavers. This study allowed the authors to observe anatomic details and propose bony reference points to guide gluteoplastic surgery. Between July 2006 and February 2009, 105 patients underwent gluteoplasty according to the guidelines resulting from the cadaveric study.

RESULTS

All patients were female, ages 22 to 50 years. The surgical procedure, once refined, resulted in a low complication rate. In the final 50 patients in the series, there was only one seroma, one wound infection, and no cases of dehiscence. Bruising on the side of the thigh was encountered in four of the total 105 cases (3.8%). The clinical photos demonstrate the positive aesthetic results of this technique.

CONCLUSIONS

When gluteoplasty is performed utilizing a systematic strategy based on bone anatomy references, it can be a predictable procedure with reproducible results and minimal complications.