Flap Breast Reconstruction: Gluteal Technique

Many candidates for flap breast reconstruction after mastectomy are interested in the gluteal technique. Since the buttocks tend to be an obvious source of “excess” skin and fat, it is often the logical first choice for a tissue transfer. However, gluteal flap breast reconstruction has proven to be one of the most complicated of all microsurgical breast reconstruction procedures. Learn more about the technique, including the pros and cons of this free flap breast reconstruction method.

Gluteal Flap Breast Reconstruction after Mastectomy

There are two forms of gluteal flap breast reconstruction available after mastectomy: the S-GAP and the I-GAP. S-GAP is an acronym for “Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator”; S-GAP reconstruction uses tissue from the top of the buttock, which contains the upper gluteal artery. I-GAP stands for “Inferior Gluteal Artery Perforator”; this method uses tissue taken from the crease of the buttock – where the thigh and buttock meet – and which contains the lower gluteal artery.

Free Flap: Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction

Like the DIEP flap method, the gluteal technique is a type of free flap microsurgical breast reconstruction. This means that the “flap” of skin, fat, and muscle tissue is completely detached from the donor source and original blood supply, and then connected to a new supply of blood vessels at the breast area. TRAM flap breast reconstruction and latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction are examples of pedicle flaps, which remain connected to their original blood supply.

Gluteal flap breast reconstruction begins after mastectomy is complete. During breast reconstruction surgery, a rounded section of skin and fat (and occasionally muscle) is removed either from the top of the buttock or at the crease along the underside of the buttock. After being transferred to the breast, the tissue is shaped to create the breast mound and is attached to the remaining breast tissue. Using complex microsurgical techniques, the blood vessels are reconnected to existing vessels in the area. Finally, the incisions are closed and the patient begins the recovery process.

Considerations for Gluteal Flap Patients

Although the idea of regaining one or both breasts and possibly improving the contour of the buttocks sounds like a dream come true, there are risks associated with breast reconstruction to consider. While the benefits of breast reconstruction after mastectomy give hope to many women, potential gluteal flap patients should consider several important points.

Because the procedure involves removing tissue from another area of the body, flap breast reconstruction results in scarring at the donor site. For many, these scars fade with time, and scars left by the I-GAP method are generally hidden within the crease of the buttock. However, the additional incisions made in the buttock region can lead to complications such as infection.

Another downside of the gluteal flap technique is the need for more recovery time when compared to breast reconstruction with implants. But unlike implant reconstruction, the body will not have to adapt to any foreign materials or tissue. Additionally, many flap microsurgical breast reconstruction patients tend to require less pain medication during their recovery from surgery.

Connect with a Cosmetic Surgeon in Your Area

Finding a skilled cosmetic and reconstructive surgeon to perform flap microsurgical breast reconstruction after mastectomy can be difficult. DocShop makes it easy to connect with a surgeon in your area through our directory of doctors.