Non-Abdominal Flap Reconstruction in New Jersey

What is Non-Abdominal Flap Reconstruction?

Non-abdominal flap reconstruction is a type of breast reconstruction surgery that uses tissue from areas other than the abdomen to reconstruct the breast. This method is typically chosen when the abdominal tissue is insufficient or when patients prefer an alternative donor site.

Here are the main types:

• Latissimus Dorsi (LD) Flap: Utilizes muscle, skin, and fat from the upper back. It’s often used in combination with an implant.
• Gluteal Free Flap: Harvests tissue from the buttocks, providing a good amount of muscle and fat for reconstruction.
• Inner Thigh (TUG) Flap: Uses tissue from the inner thigh, which can be particularly suitable for patients who don’t want scars on their abdomen or back.

These techniques provide natural-looking results and can be a good option for individuals seeking alternatives to abdominal tissue-based reconstructions.

Latissimus Dorsi Flap

Latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction is a surgical technique that utilizes the latissimus dorsi muscle from the back to rebuild the breast after mastectomy. This muscle is tunneled to the chest, and often, a breast implant is added to achieve the desired size and shape. This procedure is typically used when abdominal tissue is unsuitable for reconstruction.

Women with smaller or medium-sized breasts may be good candidates for latissimus dorsi flap surgery. If you have health conditions like diabetes, autoimmune diseases, or vascular disease that can affect blood flow, this procedure may not be right for you. Good blood circulation is essential for proper healing after surgery.

Gluteal Free Flap

Gluteal free flap surgery is a less common breast reconstruction technique. The surgeon removes a flap of muscle, fat, and skin from the buttocks and transfers it to the chest to create a new breast. The blood vessels in the flap are carefully reconnected to blood vessels in the chest using microsurgery.

Gluteal Free Flap offers several benefits for breast reconstruction:

• Natural Tissue: Uses your tissue from the buttocks, providing a natural look and feel.
• Alternative Donor Site: Ideal for patients who do not have enough abdominal tissue or prefer not to use abdominal tissue.
• Body Contouring: Removing tissue from the buttocks can also result in a more contoured appearance in that area.
• Reduced Risk of Implant Issues: Avoids potential complications associated with implants, such as capsular contracture or implant rupture.
• Long-Lasting Results: Once healed, the reconstruction typically does not require the maintenance that implants might.

This method can be a great option for those looking for a natural and long-lasting solution for breast reconstruction.

Inner Thigh (TUG) Flap

Gluteal free flap surgery is a less common breast reconstruction technique. The surgeon removes a flap of muscle, fat, and skin from the buttocks and transfers it to the chest to create a new breast. The blood vessels in the flap are carefully reconnected to blood vessels.

A woman may be suitable for TUG flap breast reconstruction if she has enough tissue in her inner thigh. The TUG flap technique uses tissue from the inner thigh, including the gracilis muscle and surrounding skin and fat, to create a new breast mound.

Related Procedures

• Breast Augmentation
• Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
• Breast Reconstruction
• Diep Flap
• Breast Reduction
• Breast Implant Removal
• Non-Abdominal Flap Reconstruction
• Breast Reconstruction Surgery Post Mastectomy
• Fat Grafting
• Implant-Based Reconstruction

Considering breast reconstruction? Non-abdominal flap options can help restore your figure and femininity after mastectomy. Consult with the experts at Rowe Plastic Surgery to discuss your options and schedule a consultation before your mastectomy.

Schedule My Consultation

If you’re ready to schedule your DIEP flap breast reconstruction or simply want to learn more about the procedure, our doctors can give you the answers and reassurance you need to make the decision that’s right for you. To schedule your private consultation, call 212-628-7300.

212-628-7300