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One Great Option

When the breast is reconstructed with your own tissue, the results are often more natural and there are no concerns about a breast implant. The transverse myocutaneous gracilis flap (TUG) is one such option.

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What You Need to Know About Tug Flap Procedure

The transverse upper gracilis flap is a valuable alternative for immediate or delayed autologous breast reconstruction after skin-sparing mastectomy in patients with small and medium-sized breasts and inadequate soft-tissue bulk at the lower abdomen and gluteal region. The flap is constructed with a semilunar skin paddle centered over the axis of the gracilis muscle in the inner thigh (see picture). This flap can then be shaped to mimic a breast and provide excellent contour and projection with a consistent blood supply. As with other types of breast reconstruction in Oklahoma City, the TUG procedure is part of a staged approach and more surgeries will be required later for nipple areola reconstruction, as well as making the breasts appear as symmetrical and natural as possible.

  1. Great option for patients without adequate abdominal donor tissue
  2. No abdominal postoperative scarring that is associated with other procedures

You may be a candidate for TUG breast reconstruction if you do not have adequate tissue in the abdomen or buttocks or if you have undergone previous abdominal surgery, which may interfere with the surrounding blood supply. This procedure is also recommended for women with small to medium sized breasts who do not require a significant amount of volume for reconstruction.

TUG uses your own tissue for a more natural looking breast and provides excellent contour and projection. There’s no abdominal post-operative scarring and the loss of the gracilis muscle does not result in hernias, bulging, or significant donor site complications.

As with all types of surgery breast reconstruction does not come without risks. Wound complications at the donor site, wound breakdown (due location around the panty line area), seromas (pocket of clear serous fluid), infection, risk of bleeding, blood clot and pain at the donor site. You should discuss this with Dr. Bajaj to fully understand potential breast reconstruction complications.

Plan to quit smoking at least 6 weeks prior to surgery and 4 weeks after surgery. Smoking can increase your risk of serious complications and lead to flap failure or wound healing problems. Discuss any medical conditions you have with OKC plastic surgeon Dr. Bajaj prior to surgery so you can know which medications to continue and which ones to stop until after your surgery. Stop taking any anti-inflammatory medications at least 2 weeks prior to surgery as these medications thin your blood and may increase your risk of complications after surgery. However, you may take Tylenol for any aches and pains during this time.

Remember that your recovery will take 2-3 weeks so try to organize the best you can. Bring items closer to your reach before surgery and down from high cabinets for easier access when you return from the hospital. Keep books, magazines and remotes within reach of your bed. Eat well balanced meals that are high in protein and green leafy vegetables which will help the healing process.

Be prepared to be in the hospital after surgery for 2-3 days. You will also have surgical. These drains will remain in place until they are unproductive or Dr. Bajaj decides it’s time to remove them. The recovery time is anywhere from 2-3 weeks. Oftentimes patients require a final surgery after the TUG flap to make the breasts more symmetrical. You should discuss with Dr. Bajaj all your concerns and expectations for post-surgery appearance and recovery.

Learn More About TUG Breast Reconstruction

We encourage you to explore your options for TUG breast reconstruction in Oklahoma City. Please contact Bajaj Plastic Surgery in Oklahoma City by calling 405-810-8448 to set up a consultation.

Let’s Get Started!

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