Restoration of the gluteal fold by a deepithelialized skin flap: Preliminary observations

Background: The gluteal fold represents an important aspect of the gluteal region. Destruction of this anatomic landmark as a consequence of trauma or tissue harvest can result in an aesthetically disturbing disfigurement. A technique for reconstruction of the gluteal fold and preliminary results are presented. Methods: The newly formed gluteal fold is created by fixation of a deepithelialized skin flap to the periosteum of the tuber ischiadicum. Results: The operative procedure is quick and easy to apply. The method is used mainly for patients with a distorted gluteal fold after tissue harvest for breast reconstruction. However, it also can be used after trauma such as that associated with burn injuries. In all patients, reconstruction of the gluteal fold yielded aesthetically pleasing and reliable results with high patient satisfaction. Conclusions: The authors present a simple and effective technique for reconstruction of the gluteal fold by a deepithelialized skin flap. The technique is applicable for patients who have lost their natural gluteal sulcus, with a resultant altered buttock shape, after trauma or other causes.