Buttock Flap (SGAP)
WHAT IS SGAP FLAP RECONSTRUCTION?
in Baton Rouge, Louisiana
GAP stands for gluteal artery perforator, a blood vessel that runs through your buttocks. A SGAP flap (superior gluteal artery perforator), uses this blood vessel and skin and fat from the upper buttocks/hip to reconstruct the breast. No muscle is used during the SGAP flap procedure, so it is considered a muscle-sparing type of flap. The SGAP procedure is technically more difficult than other types of flap procedures and usually takes more time to complete. Dr. Cusimano is one of the few plastic surgeons who is trained in this flap procedure to provide you with optimal results.
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Who is a Candidate for TDAP Flap Reconstruction?
Women who are having one or both breasts reconstructed but cannot use tissue from the abdomen because the abdomen has been damaged by other major surgeries are often good candidates for the SGAP flap procedure. A consultation with Dr. Cusimano is the best way to determine if this flap procedure is right for you.
Before & After
GALLERY
The SGAP Flap Procedure
During the SGAP procedure, fat, skin, and blood vessels are removed from your upper buttocks and hip area and moved to your chest to create a breast mound. Dr. Cusimano will skillfully reattach the blood vessels of the flap to the blood vessels in your chest using microsurgery. Many surgeons prefer to do each breast separately, which can mean two different operations spaced a few months apart. However, this can be discussed during your consultation with Dr. Cusimano. Because skin and fat are removed from the buttocks and relocated to the chest, your buttocks will be tighter, and appear as though you have had a buttock lift. You will have a scar near the top of your buttocks, but this can easily be covered with a bikini bottom or underwear.
AFTER CARE AND RECOVERY
Following your SGAP flap reconstruction, you will be moved to a recovery room, and will then need to stay in the hospital for about four days. It can take 4-6 weeks to recover from SGAP surgery. You may be required to wear a compression garment following surgery. During recovery, you will need to care for multiple incisions, including some on your breasts and upper buttocks, and you will have drains placed to help collect any excess fluid. However, following Dr. Cusimano’s specific post-op instructions to help ensure a quick recovery. It may take up to a year before you are fully healed and your scars begin to fade.