New Jersey & New York

Tissue-Based Breast Reconstruction (FLAPS)

Introduction to Tissue-Based Breast Reconstruction (FLAPS)

Breast reconstruction is a deeply personal experience, as it is linked closely and inextricably with your identity as a woman. That road to recovery–whether to the new you or the old one–is unique for every patient. That fact is reflected in a broad array of breast reconstruction options available to those women who elect to pursue them after a mastectomy or other breast trauma.

The plastic surgeons at East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery are well-versed in various procedures, including TUG, TRAM, DIEP, IGAP, SGAP, and LD flap procedures.

Call us at 201.449.1000 or use our online form to schedule an appointment right now. With locations in New Jersey and New York City and multiple board-certified surgeons, reconstructing your breasts is more convenient than ever.

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What is Tissue-Based Breast Reconstruction (FLAPS)?

Tissue-based breast reconstruction is breast reconstruction surgery that uses a patient’s own tissue, typically from areas like the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, or back, to reconstruct a natural-looking breast after a mastectomy.

FLAPS involve relocating your skin, fat, muscle, and sometimes blood vessels from a donor area of the body to the chest to form a new breast mound. This technique can provide a more natural look and feel than implants.

There are different types of tissue-based breast reconstruction, including:

  • DIEP Flap (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap): This procedure uses tissue from the lower abdomen, similar to a tummy tuck, to create a breast. The key advantage of the DIEP flap is that it preserves the abdominal muscles, reducing the risk of abdominal weakness or hernias.
  • TRAM Flap (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous Flap): This method also uses tissue from the lower abdomen, but it involves taking both skin, fat, and abdominal muscle. While it offers excellent breast reconstruction, it can weaken the abdominal wall.
  • TUG Flap (Transverse Upper Gracilis Flap): This procedure takes tissue from the inner thigh, particularly a small muscle that helps with leg movement. It’s a good option for women who may not have enough tissue in the abdomen or buttocks.
  • IGAP Flap (Inferior Gluteal Artery Perforator Flap): In this procedure, tissue from the lower buttocks is used to reconstruct the breast, making it ideal for women who don’t have enough abdominal tissue or prefer not to use abdominal fat.
  • SGAP Flap (Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator Flap): Similar to the IGAP flap, but it uses tissue from the upper buttocks. It’s an option for women who may not be candidates for other types of reconstruction, providing a natural result with tissue that integrates well.
  • LD Flap (Latissimus Dorsi Flap): This technique uses muscle, fat, and skin from the back to form a breast mound. It’s often used in combination with implants for a more natural look.

*Each of these procedures is designed to create a breast that feels and looks natural, using the body’s own tissue for a more personalized, long-lasting result. Tissue-based breast reconstruction can be a transformative option for women seeking a natural, permanent solution after a mastectomy.

What Are the Benefits of Tissue-Based Breast Reconstruction (FLAPS)?

Tissue-based breast reconstruction offers a variety of benefits that make it an appealing option for many women seeking breast reconstruction.

  • Natural Look and Feel: Since FLAPS procedures use tissue from the patient’s own body, such as the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, or back, the reconstructed breasts look and feel more natural compared to implants. Patients often find this to be the most satisfying option, especially for those who prefer a natural treatment approach.
  • No Risk of Allergic Reactions: Unlike breast implants, which may carry a risk of allergic reactions, tissue-based reconstruction eliminates this concern. Since no foreign materials are introduced into the body, the body is less likely to react negatively, ensuring safer, more predictable outcomes.
  • Lower Risk of Implant-Related Complications: Implants can sometimes lead to complications like rupture, capsular contracture (hardening around the implant), or shifting. FLAPS procedures, such as the DIEP flap, avoid these risks since they don’t involve implants, reducing the likelihood of these issues and ensuring a more reliable and long-term result.
  • Improved Body Contours: One of the added benefits of procedures like the DIEP and TRAM flap is that they use tissue from the abdomen, which can help create a flatter, more toned abdominal contour. Many women enjoy the dual benefit of breast reconstruction along with an enhanced waistline, similar to a tummy tuck.
  • Personalized Approach: With multiple options, such as the TUG, IGAP, LD, and SGAP flap procedures, women can choose the technique that best suits their body, needs, and aesthetic goals. These highly customizable procedures allow surgeons to create a result that aligns with each patient’s desires.
  • No Need for Future Replacements: Unlike implants, which may need to be replaced or adjusted over time, tissue-based reconstructions typically don’t require maintenance. The patient’s own tissue is permanent, reducing the need for future surgeries.
  • More Comprehensive Reconstruction: FLAPS procedures allow for complete breast reconstruction using the patient’s own tissue, resulting in a more cohesive and long-lasting outcome. The body’s natural tissues are more likely to integrate well with the surrounding tissues, leading to smoother, more natural results.

Who Are the Best Candidates For Tissue-Based Breast Reconstruction (FLAPS)?

The best candidates for tissue-based breast reconstruction are typically individuals in the New Jersey and New York area who meet the following criteria:

  • Sufficient Donor Tissue: Patients should have enough healthy tissue in areas like the abdomen, back, thighs, or buttocks to provide the material needed for reconstruction. For instance, the DIEP flap procedure requires abdominal tissue, while the IGAP and SGAP flaps use tissue from the buttocks.
  • Desire for Natural Results: Those who prefer a more natural look and feel may opt for tissue-based reconstruction, which uses the patient’s own tissue. This leads to results that generally mimic the natural breast more closely than implants.
  • Overall Health: Ideal candidates should be in good general health, as the procedures involve significant surgery and recovery time. Being a non-smoker and having a healthy weight can help improve healing and minimize risks.
  • No Previous Abdominal Surgeries (for certain procedures): Patients with prior abdominal surgeries may face challenges for procedures like DIEP and TRAM flaps, especially if they have scarring or weakened muscles in the area. However, this doesn’t rule out the possibility entirely.
  • Not Interested in Implants: Women who prefer not to have implants due to concerns about potential complications like rupture or capsular contracture may consider tissue-based options.
  • Women Seeking Long-Term Results: Those looking for a permanent, low-maintenance solution may prefer tissue-based reconstruction because, unlike implants, there is no need for future replacements or adjustments.
  • Candidates for Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy: Tissue-based breast reconstruction is typically an option for women who have undergone or are planning to undergo a mastectomy due to breast cancer or other medical conditions.

During your consultation at ECAPS, one of our surgeons will assess your individual anatomy, health, and goals to determine the most appropriate procedure for you.

What’s the first step?

The first step is to schedule a consultation with one of our plastic surgeons at ECAPS in New Jersey or New York. During this, your surgeon will evaluate your body and health to help determine the most suitable FLAPS option for you, whether it’s a DIEP, TUG, IGAP, LD, SGAP, or TRAM flap procedure.

This will also be your chance to ask us any questions, learn about the different techniques, and understand the recovery process.

A woman with dark hair pulled back in a bun is seen from the mid-chest up, wearing a black sports bra. She has her arms outstretched in a stretching or exercising pose, with her gaze directed slightly to her right and a neutral expression. The light gray wall behind her features subtle shadowing, suggesting a light source from one side. The lighting highlights the contours of her face and body, and a window or light source is visible in the background. - Male to Female Top Surgery in New York and New Jersey

How to Prepare for a Tissue-Based Breast Reconstruction (FLAPS)

  • Consultation with a Skilled Surgeon: The first step of the treatment process is to schedule your consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon at East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery. At this appointment, you will discuss your expectations and concerns, learn more about the procedure, and find out if you are a good candidate.
  • Healthy Lifestyle: You will need to establish and maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine to optimize your overall health before surgery and promote an expedient recovery.
  • Smoking Cessation: If you smoke, quitting is essential. Smoking can hinder the body’s healing capability and increase the risk of complications.
  • Preoperative Assessments: Follow your surgeon’s instructions for preoperative assessments, such as blood tests and medical evaluations.
  • Support System: Arrange for assistance during your recovery. You will be restricted from physical activity for several days following your surgery.
  • Mental Preparation: It’s normal to have anxiety before surgery. Engage in relaxation techniques or consider speaking with a therapist if needed.
  • Surgical Expectations: Discuss the surgical process and recovery timeline with your surgeon to understand what to expect.

What to Expect on the Day of Tissue-Based Breast Reconstruction (FLAPS)

Once in the operating room, general anesthesia will be administered to you before surgery.

The procedure itself will depend on the type of flap being used—whether it’s a DIEP, SGAP, IGAP, TUG, or LD flap—but in general it will involve your ECAPS surgeon harvesting tissue from the donor site, preserving its blood supply, and skillfully transplanting it to the chest to reconstruct the breast. Microsurgical techniques will be used to help connect the blood vessels to ensure proper circulation to the new tissue.

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Tissue-Based Breast Reconstruction (FLAPS) Recovery

Recovery from your tissue-based breast reconstruction surgery is a gradual process. In the first few days after surgery, you’ll likely remain in the hospital so your surgical team can monitor your healing, manage any discomfort, and ensure proper blood flow to the newly reconstructed breast. You may have surgical drains in place to prevent fluid buildup, and your medical team will provide instructions on how to care for them.

Most of our patients take about six to eight weeks to recover from their flap procedures, though this timeline varies depending on the specific technique used. You’ll gradually regain mobility, and any discomfort will lessen over time. Scarring at both the donor and breast sites will fade, though it will continue to refine for several months to a year.

How Much Does Tissue-Based Breast Reconstruction Cost in New Jersey and New York?

Under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (WHCRA), health insurance plans that cover mastectomy are federally required to also cover breast reconstruction. This includes patients with a history of breast cancer as well as those undergoing preventive mastectomy due to high-risk genetic mutations like BRCA. If you qualify, your reconstruction should be fully covered—speak with us to learn more about your options

Why Choose East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery (ECAPS)?

At East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery in New Jersey and New York City, we specialize in offering personalized care for our patients considering flap procedures for breast reconstruction.

Our team of board-certified plastic surgeons brings extensive experience in a variety of advanced reconstructive techniques, including DIEP, TRAM, TUG, and other flap procedures. We are committed to providing each patient with tailored treatment plans that focus on both their aesthetic goals and overall well-being.

Tissue-Based Breast Reconstruction (FLAPS) FAQ’S

Schedule a Consultation

Contact East Coast Advanced Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation for your Flap Procedure in Hoboken, Ridgewood, Livingston, Pompton Plains, and Manhattan/NYC. We will take the time to guide you through the entire process, ensuring results that fully satisfy your aesthetic needs. Contact us today!

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