Procedures

IGAP and SGAP Flap Breast Reconstruction

GAP stands for gluteal artery perforator, a key blood vessel running through the buttocks. GAP flap procedures use this vessel, along with skin and fat from the buttock area, to reconstruct the breast after mastectomy.

These techniques are ideal for women who don’t have enough abdominal tissue for reconstruction or who have had prior abdominal surgeries.

Four women in pink tops and ribbons smile together outdoors, showing support for a local breast cancer awareness event.
About GAP Breast Reconstruction
What are the types of GAP Breast Reconstruction?
  • SGAP (Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator) Flap: This technique uses fat and skin from the upper buttocks (near the hip) along with the superior gluteal artery. The tissue is carefully transferred and reconnected to blood vessels in the chest using microsurgery. The scar is placed near the top of the buttocks and is usually hidden under underwear.
  • IGAP (Inferior Gluteal Artery Perforator) Flap: Similar to SGAP, the IGAP flap uses tissue from the lower buttocks, near the crease. Because this area includes the sitting bone (ischium), the procedure may cause temporary numbness and carries a small risk of pressure sores. For this reason, it’s used less frequently than SGAP.
Who might be a good candidate for GAP Breast Reconstruction?

You may be a good fit for SGAP or IGAP flap reconstruction if:

  • You’ve had a double mastectomy and need tissue for both breasts.
  • You lack sufficient abdominal tissue or can’t use it due to past surgeries.

These methods may not be ideal if:

  • Preserving the natural shape of your buttocks is important to you.
  • You’ve had prior liposuction in the buttocks or hips, limiting usable tissue.
Why choose GAP Breast Reconstruction?

SGAP and IGAP procedures are more complex than other flap surgeries and require specialized microsurgical expertise. When reconstructing both breasts using SGAP or IGAP flaps, some surgeons prefer to stage the surgeries a few months apart. However, it’s possible to have both done at once with two surgeons operating simultaneously, as this approach minimizes recovery time but requires a well-coordinated team.

What to expect from GAP Breast Reconstruction surgery?

These are muscle-sparing procedures, meaning no muscles are removed — just skin, fat, and connecting blood vessels. After surgery, many patients report that their buttocks feel firmer, similar to the effect of a cosmetic butt lift. The SGAP scar runs along the upper buttocks and is typically hidden by underwear. The IGAP scar lies in the crease at the bottom of the buttocks and is generally discreet.

While less common than abdominal-based flaps, SGAP and IGAP procedures offer excellent options for women seeking natural reconstruction when other donor sites aren’t viable.

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Why Our Patients Love ReCenter

The Staff and Surgeons at ReCenter took excellent care of me before, during, and after my diagnosis of breast cancer. They treated me and my husband like family. They put our hearts and minds at ease when choosing my surgery options and completed the procedure with skilled precision. Very grateful for ReCenter. 10/10 recommend

Gina J.

I recently had a double mastectomy at ReCenter & can't speak highly enough on the level of care and compassion from the doctors, nurses, admissions & every employee at ReCenter. They genuinely make you feel comfortable from the time you walk in until you leave. Any questions or concerns I had were addressed & handled with the utmost of respect. Everything is top notch! I know I am in excellent hands with Dr. Bowie & Dr. Theunissen & recommended them highly!

Cheryl M.

I had a breast augmentation at ReCenter and it was a wonderful experience! Dr. Theunissen and the entire hospital staff were absolutely amazing! It was such a great environment and everyone was so kind! I am thrilled about my results!!

Millie S.

The entire hospital staff was so kind and helpful during my stay after my mastectomy. The nurses kept my pain under control and were very personable throughout my stay. My night nurses were my saving grace! Every concern that I had was heard and every question was answered. The room was very comfortable and did not feel like the regular hospital stay. I would recommend Recenter to anyone needing this type of care!

Taylor F.

I traveled from Lafayette to work with Dr. Delatte at the ReCenter. I was very impressed by the staff, care I received, and the cleanliness of the entire facility. Each person I interacted with was caring, professional, and respectful. I felt that any of my concerns were met with compassion and addressed appropriately. I’d highly recommend this facility to anyone needing this type of care.

Kaitlin C.

This facility treats you like family and always there to explain any concerns. When doctors (Dr. Bowie and Dr. Theunissen) call you personally to check on you and discuss concerns that you might have is wonderful. On day of surgery, everybody was helpful and friendly. I am a very anxious person but they knew what to do to help me relax.

Linda B.

The facility is absolutely beautiful. The entire staff was friendly and very professional. I was so calm and at ease from the time that I walked in for pre-op until I was discharged from recovery. First class!

Katherine S.

Such a kind, warm, and knowledgeable staff. They helped to put any pre-surgery jitters at ease. Everyone tended to me well the entire time and were quick to respond to my vasovagal response when coming out of anesthesia. 10/10 recommend!

Emily M.