Welcome to the Center for Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction, your trusted destination for SGAP Flap breast reconstruction in New Orleans, LA, and Southwest Florida. Led by Dr. Hugo St. Hilaire and his highly skilled team, we bring over 15 years of extensive experience to the field of breast reconstruction.
At our center, we specialize in utilizing microsurgical techniques that utilize the patient's own tissue for a more natural and lasting result. By harnessing the body's own resources, we minimize the risk of complications and ensure optimal outcomes.
We understand that breast reconstruction surgery is not just a physical journey but also an emotional one. That's why we focus on providing personalized care to each patient and take the time to explain every step of the procedure. We strive to provide a safe, comfortable atmosphere where our patients can feel confident in their results.
When you choose the Center for Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction, you can trust that you will receive personalized care from a team that combines exceptional technical expertise with genuine empathy. Let us help you restore confidence and empower you on your path to healing.
The SGAP Flap, or Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator Flap, was developed by the Center for Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction’s 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.
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.
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, the superior (upper) gluteal artery is used as the blood vessel that supplies tissue to reconstruct the breast, while the IGAP uses the inferior (lower) gluteal artery. This source of vascularization is located in a different location on the buttock than for the IGAP Flap, resulting in a scar in a different area.
Which buttock donor site you choose is a matter of preference and anatomy. Both the IGAP and the SGAP Flap can be used for unilateral or bilateral simultaneous reconstruction.
While every patient's recovery may vary, a typical hospital stay for SGAP flap surgery lasts about 48 hours.
The SGAP scar lies in the upper buttock and is easily hidden in a French-cut bikini or underwear. The IGAP scar lies within the lower buttock crease. Otherwise, these donor sites are comparable in terms of the reconstruction they provide.
Microsurgical SGAP Flap reconstruction offers several benefits:
Overall, this procedure can greatly improve the quality of life for individuals who have undergone mastectomy.
It’s easy to schedule your first free consultation with Dr. St. Hilaire and the Center for Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction. Just fill out our online form, and we’ll determine together if you’re a candidate for surgery. We’re excited to meet you!