Center for Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction

SGAP Flap Surgery

Breast Reconstruction Using Tissue From Your Upper Buttocks.

The SGAP Flap, or Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator Flap, was developed by Dr. Robert Allen in 1993. We were also the first to perform the bilateral simultaneous SGAP in 1994, and our experience has subsequently been published.

Simultaneous bilateral breast reconstruction with superior gluteal artery perforator (SGAP) flaps.  Guerra AB, Soueid N, Metzinger SE, Levine J, Bidros RS, Erhard H, Allen RJ.

This is 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.

Gap Procedure

Almost all patients are candidates for use of the upper buttock (the SGAP) for breast reconstruction. This donor site can be used for unilateral or bilateral simultaneous reconstructions. This donor site differs from the IGAP Flap in its position on the buttock, the resulting scar placement and the blood vessel used to supply the tissue. For the SGAP Flap it is the superior (upper) gluteal artery, and for the IGAP it is the inferior (lower) gluteal artery. The SGAP scar lies in the upper buttock and is easily hidden in a French cut bikini or in underwear. The IGAP scar lies within the lower buttock crease. Otherwise these donor sites are comparable in terms of the reconstruction they provide.

Which buttock donor site to chose is a matter of preference and anatomy. Both the IGAP and the SGAP Flap can be used for unilateral or bilateral simultaneous reconstruction.