title: A new technique for gluteal lifting using deepithelialized dermal flaps.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Gluteal ptosis may result from sagging of redundant skin and fat below the infragluteal fold. The correction of gluteal ptosis and the definition of gluteal prominence can be obtained by several gluteal lifting techniques. We present a new technique to correct gluteal ptosis using deepithelialized dermal flaps.
  
  
  METHODS
  Eight female patients (39 + or - 4 years old) with gluteal ptosis were included in the study. Six patients had been previously operated on elsewhere (liposuction, body lift). Gluteal lifting is performed using a crescent-shaped deepithelialized flap. The cranial two-thirds of the flap is sutured to the gluteal fascia, thus creating the new gluteal curvature and the position of the new infragluteal fold. The lower third of the flap is then sutured back toward the two-thirds flap within the first suture line, resulting in a doubling of the deepithelialized area.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The mean operating time was 100 + or - 20 min (range = 75-110 min). There were no complications in the study group. An analysis of postoperative results revealed a very good aesthetic aspect in all patients. All patients showed an improved definition of the infragluteal fold, with a symmetric shape of the gluteal region. All patients judged the outcome as very good.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The use of a deepithelialized double dermal flap is a safe and new way to obtain excellent results in rejuvenation of the gluteal region. Our technique allows for the creation of a stable and long-lasting infragluteal fold with an aesthetic buttock curvature and a defined border to the thigh region.
authors.affiliation: Department of Plastic, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical School Hannover, Hannover, Germany. handschin73@hotmail.com
authors.forename: Alexander E
authors.initials: AE
authors.lastname: Handschin
authors.forename: Marian
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Mackowski
authors.forename: Peter Maria
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Vogt
authors.forename: Tina
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Peters
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002081:Buttocks / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures / Q000379:methods*; D013524:Surgical Flaps; D016896:Treatment Outcome