# Compensatory hypertrophy of the superior gluteus maximus following botulinum toxin-induced weakening of the inferior fibers

## TL;DR

Injecting botulinum toxin in part of the gluteus maximus can cause nearby muscle fibers to grow larger, suggesting a new approach for body contouring and rehabilitation.

## Contribution

The study demonstrates compensatory hypertrophy in the superior gluteus maximus following targeted weakening of inferior fibers.

## Key findings

- Ultrasound-guided botulinum toxin injections in the inferior gluteus maximus led to increased fullness in the superior region.
- Compensatory hypertrophy occurred without adverse effects in two healthy subjects.
- Targeted muscle weakening may promote adaptive hypertrophy in adjacent fibers.

## Abstract

Selective chemodenervation of the inferior gluteus maximus (GMax) may induce compensatory hypertrophy of its superior fibers. Two healthy female subjects underwent ultrasound-guided botulinumtoxinA (JETEMA THE TOXIN, JETEMA Co., Ltd., Korea) injections (100 IU) into the inferior GMax. Six-week follow-up revealed increased fullness and definition in the superior region without adverse effects. The observation supports the concept that targeted muscle weakening can promote adaptive hypertrophy in adjacent fibers. This minimally invasive approach may have potential applications in aesthetic body contouring and functional rehabilitation.