Gluteal Projection

Gluteal Projection

Gluteal projection describes how far the buttocks project outward from the pelvis when viewed in profile and is determined by a combination of soft-tissue volume, muscle mass, and underlying skeletal shape. Differences in projection affect the perceived balance between the torso and lower body and can result from genetics, aging, weight changes, or posture.

Surgeons evaluate gluteal projection when planning procedures to enhance or refine buttock shape, including fat grafting (Brazilian Butt Lift), buttock implants, or contouring of surrounding areas with liposuction. Altering projection can improve body proportion but involves procedure-specific considerations such as fat graft survival, implant positioning, and the potential for contour irregularities, so individualized assessment and realistic expectations are important.