Gluteal Contouring Surgery in the Massive Weight Loss Patient

This article describes some of the salient anatomic issues, a classification system, surgical techniques, and a decision-making algorithm available for contouring the gluteal region in the patient who has sustained massive weight loss (MWL). The gluteal deformities encountered in patients who have lost a massive amount of weight are unprecedented in body-contouring surgery, and plastic surgeons need uncommon techniques when contouring and augmenting the gluteal region in these patients. A better understanding of the anatomy and a new surgical armamentarium can improve the cosmetic results of gluteal contouring, and, thereby, enhance patient satisfaction in this challenging population.