TUG and PAP Flap Breast Reconstruction
TUG and PAP Flap vs. DIEP Flap
| Autologous | Harvest Site | Fatty Tissue Used | Muscle Tissue Used | |
| DIEP Flap | ✔ | Abdomen | ✔ | |
| TUG Flap | ✔ | Inner Thigh(s) | ✔ | ✔ |
| PAP Flap | ✔ | Inner Thigh(s) | ✔ |
DIEP Flap
The most common type of autologous tissue reconstruction is the DIEP flap procedure, which harvests tissue from the abdomen. DIEP is named after the deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) artery that runs through the abdomen. During the DIEP procedure, the surgeon moves fat, skin, and blood vessels from the abdomen up to the chest in order to form a new breast mound following a mastectomy.
TUG Flap and PAP Flap
While DIEP is a popular breast reconstruction technique, patients who are slender or who have undergone abdominal surgery before typically do not have enough fat tissue to harvest. In such cases, transverse upper gracilis (TUG) and profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap surgeries may be recommended. Both surgeries use harvested tissue from one or both inner thighs. The major difference between the TUG and PAP flap procedures is the type of tissue harvested. While the PAP flap harvests only fatty tissue, TUG flap harvests both fatty and muscle tissue.
Stacked Flaps Technique
Dr. Lerman can also perform a special type of breast reconstruction known as stacked flaps. During the procedure, he will combine two types of flaps to form one breast. By stacking multiple flaps, Dr. Lerman can create a larger breast without using an implant. This technique can benefit very thin patients who cannot achieve the breast size they want with a single flap.
How to Decide Which Surgery Is Right for You
Many women face a difficult choice when deciding which autologous breast reconstruction technique is right for them. Several factors must be considered when choosing between breast reconstruction techniques, including:
- Whether you prefer to use your own tissue or implants
- Whether you prefer the quicker surgical and recovery time of breast reconstruction with implants or the long-term benefits of breast reconstruction using a flap
- The amount of abdominal, thigh, and buttock tissue available to build a flap
During a consultation at his Manhattan, NY, office, Dr. Lerman can get to know you, learn about your personal preferences, and build a personalized surgical plan to help you reach your goals. Not all surgeons perform every type of technique, but Dr. Lerman offers a wide range of natural tissue flap breast reconstruction techniques to meet your unique needs.
Contact Us Today & Learn More about This Advanced Breast Reconstruction Technique
If you are considering breast reconstruction using an advanced flap technique, contact our New York practice to explore your options and learn about the benefits of each technique.
Dr. Lerman is the director of breast reconstruction at the Institute for Comprehensive Breast Care at Lenox Hill Hospital. His advanced training and experience in microvascular surgery and flap procedures give him the tools to provide natural-looking breast reconstruction results and a safe recovery. If you require a mastectomy and would like to learn more about your breast reconstruction options, contact our practice online today or call us to schedule a consultation:
(212) 434-6980
"He Has My Highest Recommendation."
Kleighnyc
2020
Dr Lerman is best of the best! From his bedside manner and ability to really listen to his patients to his highly skilled surgical hand I am so grateful and fortunate to have found him. He has my highest recommendation. As well, everyone on his staff helpful and lovely to deal with. 5 stars!
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Beth Stern
2019
I came to see Dr Lerman having begun the implant process post mastectomy but very unhappy with the tissue expander. I had constant discomfort and a misshapen breast. Within hours of Flap surgery my pain was gone. I am so thankful!
What to Expect during the Procedure
Transverse upper gracilis (TUG) and profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap surgeries can be performed immediately after a mastectomy, or they can be delayed. They are both performed under general anesthesia.
Are There Any Risks Involved?
Like deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap surgery or any surgical procedure, TUG and PAP flaps involve some risks, such as infection, lumps in the harvested tissue, and tissue breakdown.
Choosing a credentialed surgeon with many years of experience in breast reconstruction surgery can minimize these risks. Dr. Lerman is board-certified and has fellowship training in microvascular reconstructive surgery. He uses his training and skills to mentor other surgeons in safely performing breast reconstruction with natural-looking results. Because of his reputation and the caliber of his work, patients visit Dr. Lerman from throughout New York and beyond.
"I Feel Lucky and Blessed to Call Him My Doctor."
Kimberly del Gaizo
2019
Dr. Oren Lerman's expertise and skill are of the absolute highest caliber. He masterfully navigated my demanding journey with breast reconstruction following my cancer diagnosis and double mastectomy. As my body persisted in presenting formidable challenges, Dr. Lerman never wavered in his thoughtful and methodical decisions and treatments. His empathy and humanity gave me reassurance and hope throughout the five surgeries he performed on me. Dr. Lerman is the ideal doctor. I feel lucky and blessed to call him my doctor.
Yelena Bernstein
2019
Dr. Lerman is an amazing doctor and a very kind and carrying individual. His attention to details and ability to explain complicated surgeries make his patients and their families very comfortable. It is important to trust your doctor and Dr. Lerman is trustworthy! Thank you Dr. Lerman for your expertise and amazing care that you provide!
