MRI findings of aesthetic gluteoplasty-from pre- to postoperative: a review and pictorial essay.

Over the past decades, the growing pursuit of the "ideal body" has increased the demand for aesthetic procedures. There are four main types of procedures: autologous fat grafting, gluteal implants, dermal fillers, and local flaps. Fat grafting is the most commonly performed with the lowest complication rates, while implants are associated with higher risks. The use of dermal flaps is generally restricted to patients with massive weight loss, as in bariatric surgeries. Dermal fillers are not recommended by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use on the buttocks; however, they have been increasingly used, especially by unqualified professionals. Complications include infections, seromas, hematomas, and suture dehiscence; however, the most feared complication is pulmonary embolism, more related to fat grafting and filling substances. Given the rising number of postoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exams, more and more radiologists have come across aesthetic gluteoplasty exams in daily practice and must understand the anatomy and the main anatomical variations of the gluteal region. Besides, it is important to have knowledge of the surgical techniques employed and actively look for potential postoperative complications related to each type of procedure. This article reviews surgical techniques, anatomical considerations, expected MRI findings, and common complications after gluteoplasty.