Gluteoplasty With Lumbar Gluteal Flap Associated With Liposuction and Fat Grafting: A Safe Technique for Massive Weight Loss Patients

Abstract

Abstract Background Weight loss leads to excessive flaccidity, volume loss, and tissue descent in the gluteal region. Translated autologous flaps during lower body lifting have been utilized in patients; they address sagging tissue and the lack of volume. However, sometimes use of these autologous flaps does not provide adequate gluteal projection, and a second procedure with fat injection may be required. Objectives The authors describe their technique of a lower body lift with a lumbosacral flap in association with liposuction and lipofilling for gluteoplasty. Methods A prospective series of 23 post–bariatric surgery individuals who underwent a lower body lift with lumbosacral flap gluteal augmentation, liposuction, and lipofilling between January 2021 and September 2022 were described. The satisfaction rate and complications were assessed 6 months postoperatively with a validated questionnaire (BODY-Q scale). Results The patients had a mean age of 38.18 (range, 28-56 years) and median body mass index of 26. Four patients with dehiscence were diagnosed and treated conservatively. All wound breakdowns were observed in the paramedian plane of the torsoplasty. No reoperations were performed. The mean satisfaction percentage of the BODY-Q scale transformed score was 97.5. Conclusions A technique for a lower body lift with buttock augmentation combined with liposuction and fat grafting was presented. In future studies other techniques to maximize gluteal contouring should be investigated.