Gluteal contour improvement: different surgical alternatives

Surgical techniques to achieve improvement in buttocks contour have evolved dramatically. The authors present their experience with the different techniques and indications they use to achieve improvement in this region.

This study reviewed the surgical procedures performed by the senior author over a 15-year period among patients seeking improvement of the gluteal region. Procedures were analyzed according to the characteristics and needs of each patient, and the resulting levels of patient satisfaction were evaluated.

From April 1995 to March 2010, 908 patients (862 women and 46 men) ages 18-61 years requested and underwent surgery for gluteal contour improvement. The surgical procedures were liposuction with lipoinjection for 811 patients (89.3%); liposuction with gluteal implants for 62 patients (6.8%); liposuction with gluteal implants and lipoinjection to the hips for 22 patients (2.4%); liposuction, gluteal implants, and a buttock-lift for 7 patients (0.7%); and liposuction, gluteal implants, lipoinjection, and a buttock-lift for 6 patients (0.6%). The volume of infiltrated fat ranged from 120 to 1,160 ml per buttock, with an average of 380 ml per buttock. The implants used ranged from 250 to 450 ml (average, 325 ml).

Surgery performed with the goal of gluteal contour improvement is detailed and demanding with respect to the multiple and diverse techniques. The proper selection of these procedures and their order are paramount to achieving a successful outcome for both the patient and the surgeon.