WHAT IS SGAP BREAST RECONSTRUCTION?

SGAP surgery (Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator flap surgery) is a type of breast reconstruction procedure typically performed after mastectomy, often for breast cancer patients. It involves using tissue from the upper buttock area, specifically the skin, fat, and blood vessels, to reconstruct the breast without sacrificing the underlying muscle. This procedure is an alternative to traditional methods that use abdominal tissue, like the DIEP flap, particularly for women who do not have enough tissue in the abdomen.

WHEN IS THE SGAP BREAST RECONSTRUCTION TECHNIQUE USED?

An autologous breast reconstruction procedure, the SGAP technique is used to recreate a soft, natural breast composed entirely of living fat. It is used when the abdominal tissue is too thin or when a previous abdominoplasty prevents DIEP breast reconstruction. This “second” donor site, the upper buttock area over the gluteus maximus muscle, typically provides adequate skin tissue even in the most athletic body types.

In almost every case, this tissue flap procedure can be done on the same day as the mastectomy; this is known as “immediate reconstruction.” It may also be performed as its own procedure post-mastectomy, which is known as “delayed reconstruction.”

Almost ALL women are candidates for immediate reconstruction, so speaking with your team prior to mastectomy about reconstruction is important.

The SGAP technique is suitable for both unilateral and bilateral mastectomy reconstruction, and one or both breasts may be reconstructed on the same day.

Who Can Benefit from SGAP Surgery:

1. Breast Cancer Survivors: Women who have had a mastectomy and desire breast reconstruction without implants.
2. Thin or Petite Women: Those who don’t have enough abdominal tissue for other types of flap surgeries (e.g., DIEP or TRAM flap).
3. Women with Prior Abdominal Surgeries: Those who have had surgeries like tummy tucks or C-sections that make using abdominal tissue less viable.
4. Women Looking for a Muscle-Sparing Procedure: SGAP surgery spares muscle tissue, which can lead to quicker recovery times and less post-operative pain.

However, SGAP surgery can be more complex and have a longer recovery time compared to simpler procedures, so it’s important to consult with a skilled plastic surgeon.