Gluteal Shape Framework for Augmentation Surgery: A Systematic Review of the Literature and Proposed Classification...

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Aesthetic Medicine
• Surgical Classification Systems

Background:

• Gluteal augmentation aims to enhance buttock size and shape, yet lacks standardized classification systems unlike other aesthetic procedures.
• Current patient-surgeon communication relies heavily on photographic references for desired gluteal aesthetics.
• The absence of objective metrics hinders reproducible assessment and goal setting in gluteal augmentation.

Approach:

• A systematic literature review was performed using keywords related to gluteal augmentation and classification.
• Searches were conducted on March 17, 2021, across major medical databases.
• Eligible articles from plastic surgery journals were analyzed to identify existing classification methods.

Key Points:

• The literature search yielded 49 articles, with eight selected for analysis.
• No standardized classification system for gluteal size and shape was found in the analyzed plastic surgery literature.
• Existing publications focus on augmentation techniques rather than objective classification.

Conclusions:

• There is a clear need for a standardized classification system for gluteal size and shape.
• A novel classification system is proposed to provide an organized framework for patients and providers.
• Implementing this system can enhance accuracy and efficiency in discussing patient goals for gluteal augmentation.