SGAP Flap Reconstruction
SGAP Flap breast reconstruction is an an excellent option for women who do not have ample abdominal tissue to donate for breast reconstruction or for those who would prefer to use the upper buttock as a donor site.
Understanding SGAP Flap Reconstructive Surgery
At Florida Breast Center, we are proud to offer a wide range of advanced breast reconstruction options tailored to each woman’s unique needs. One of the most effective alternatives to abdominal-based reconstruction is the SGAP Flap, or Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator Flap. This procedure uses tissue from the upper buttock to naturally reconstruct the breast, providing a soft, lasting result without relying on implants or abdominal tissue.
The SGAP technique was first developed by Dr. Robert Allen in 1993. Just one year later, our team was the first to perform a bilateral simultaneous SGAP procedure in 1994 – a milestone that has since been published and referenced in medical literature. This depth of experience continues to shape the care we provide to women today.
The SGAP Flap is especially well-suited for women who do not have enough abdominal tissue for DIEP or other lower-abdomen flaps, or for those who prefer to preserve the abdominal area entirely. It is also a good option for women who have had prior abdominal surgeries or failed implant-based reconstruction. Using the upper buttock as the donor site, this technique allows for either one-sided (unilateral) or both-sided (bilateral) breast reconstruction with excellent outcomes.
SGAP differs from the IGAP (Inferior Gluteal Artery Perforator) Flap in a few key ways: it draws tissue from a slightly higher area on the buttock, uses a different blood vessel to maintain healthy tissue flow, and results in a scar that is easier to conceal under most clothing and swimwear.
Our patients often express how surprised they are by the natural appearance and feel of their SGAP reconstruction, as well as how well the donor site heals. While it is a more technically complex procedure, our skilled microsurgeons have years of experience performing it with precision and care.
If you’re exploring your options and have been told you are not a candidate for abdominal tissue reconstruction, we encourage you to consider the SGAP Flap. At Florida Breast Center, we are here to help you understand every available path to healing, and to support you in choosing the one that feels right for your body and your life.
📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about whether SGAP Flap reconstruction could be a fit for you.
Chat with Dr. Hugo’s virtual Avatar about reconstruction-related topics.
FAQ's about SGAP Flap Breast Reconstruction
Microsurgical SGAP Flap reconstruction offers several benefits:
- It allows for the creation of a natural-looking breast mound using the patient’s own tissue.
- This technique minimizes the risk of complications and provides long-lasting results.
- SGAP Flap reconstruction preserves the strength and function of the abdominal muscles.
Overall, this procedure can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals who have undergone mastectomy.
The SGAP scar lies in the upper buttock and is easily hidden in a French-cut bikini or underwear. The IGAP scar lies within the lower buttock crease. Otherwise, these donor sites are comparable in terms of the reconstruction they provide.
While every patient’s recovery may vary, a typical hospital stay for SGAP flap surgery lasts about 48 hours.
For the SGAP Flap, the superior (upper) gluteal artery is used as the blood vessel that supplies tissue to reconstruct the breast, while the IGAP uses the inferior (lower) gluteal artery. This source of vascularization is located in a different location on the buttock than for the IGAP Flap, resulting in a scar in a different area.
Which buttock donor site you choose is a matter of preference and anatomy. Both the IGAP and the SGAP Flap can be used for unilateral or bilateral simultaneous reconstruction.
It’s easy to schedule your first free consultation with Dr. St. Hilaire and the Florida Breast Center. Just call or fill out our online form, and we’ll determine together if you’re a candidate for surgery. We’re excited to meet you!
Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey?
Your next step starts with a simple conversation. We’ll walk you through your options, answer your questions about natural tissue breast reconstruction, and help you make the decision that’s right for you.
Call us: 850-517-0013