- Natural Results:
Facing concerns about natural breast reconstruction?
Dr. Rachana Tataria specializes in TUG Flap Reconstruction, offering advanced, evidence-based solutions to restore confidence, comfort, and a natural appearance.
TUG Flap Reconstruction is an advanced surgical procedure that uses tissue from the upper inner thigh to reconstruct the breast after mastectomy. This natural option avoids the use of implants, creating a breast that looks and feels like natural tissue. It is particularly effective for patients with insufficient abdominal tissue or those seeking a dual benefit of breast reconstruction and thigh contouring.
The procedure is meticulous, requiring expert microsurgical techniques to ensure the transplanted tissue integrates well in its new location. With long-lasting results and a natural aesthetic, TUG Flap Reconstruction is gaining popularity among women prioritizing holistic and organic reconstruction options.
TUG Flap (Transverse Upper Gracilis Flap) Reconstruction is a breast reconstruction surgery that uses tissue from the inner thigh, including skin, fat, and part of the gracilis muscle.
This tissue is transplanted to the chest to recreate a breast after mastectomy.
Unlike other flap surgeries, such as DIEP or TRAM, which use abdominal tissue, TUG Flap reconstruction uses thigh tissue.
This makes it suitable for women with minimal abdominal fat or those who want to avoid abdominal surgery.
Not all patients are candidates for TUG Flap Reconstruction. It’s ideal for women with sufficient inner thigh tissue, good overall health, and realistic expectations about outcomes.
A TUG flap is suitable for ladies with minimal lower abdomen tissue and small to moderate size breasts. A thorough consultation with Dr. Rachana Tataria will help determine suitability.
Yes, it can be performed as an immediate reconstruction (during the same surgery as the mastectomy) or as a delayed procedure after recovery. Your surgeon will guide you based on your unique case.
TUG flap reconstruction offers several health benefits, primarily because it uses the patient’s own tissue, which reduces the risk of complications associated with synthetic implants. Since the tissue is taken from the thigh, it eliminates concerns like implant rejection or capsular contracture, which can occur with breast implants.
Additionally, the procedure avoids the need for foreign materials in the body, leading to a more natural, long-lasting result. The use of autologous tissue also supports better integration with the body, reducing the likelihood of infection or other complications.
Moreover, the TUG flap offers a discreet scar location, helping patients feel more confident about their appearance during recovery.
This procedure uses your own tissue to recreate the breast, which minimizes the risk of rejection or complications associated with implants.
It also enhances your psychological well-being by restoring body confidence and helping you feel whole again after mastectomy.
Yes, the surgery removes excess fat and tissue from the upper inner thigh, offering a slight contouring effect. This dual benefit can enhance the overall aesthetics of your thighs while achieving breast reconstruction.
Breast reconstruction often has a positive emotional impact, as it helps women regain a sense of normalcy and confidence after breast cancer treatment.
Many patients report improved self-esteem and body image following the surgery.
Using natural tissue reduces the likelihood of complications, such as implant rejection or rupture, and eliminates the need for future implant replacement surgeries.
This approach also promotes better blood flow and natural healing in the reconstructed area.
The TUG flap reconstruction procedure involves the surgical transfer of tissue from the upper inner thigh to reconstruct the breast after a mastectomy. During the procedure, a portion of skin, fat, and muscle from the thigh is carefully removed, ensuring that the blood vessels supplying the tissue are preserved.
The tissue is then tunneled under the skin and repositioned to form a new breast mound. The surgeon connects the blood vessels from the transferred tissue to those in the chest area, ensuring proper blood flow and tissue viability.
The incision site on the thigh is carefully closed, leaving a discreet scar, while the breast mound is shaped to match the patient’s desired outcome. This procedure typically requires a hospital stay and several weeks for recovery, with the potential for a natural, soft, and long-lasting result.
The surgery transfers tissue, fat, and skin from the upper inner thigh, along with a portion of the gracilis muscle, to create a new breast. Microsurgical techniques connect blood vessels from the transplanted tissue to the chest, ensuring proper blood flow and integration.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia to ensure you remain asleep and pain-free. An anesthesiologist will monitor you throughout the procedure and tailor post-surgery pain management as needed.
Yes, drains are placed at the breast and thigh donor sites to collect fluid and aid healing. They are temporary and usually removed within 1-2 weeks or sometimes earlier, depending on your recovery progress.
Bilateral TUG Flap Reconstruction is possible if there’s enough donor tissue from your thighs. Your surgeon will assess your eligibility during the consultation to determine if this option suits you.
Discover how Dr. Rachana Tataria has transformed lives with her expertise and care.
%402x%20(3).svg){kind=icon}
Recovery from TUG flap reconstruction typically involves a hospital stay of 3 to 5 days, during which the surgical team monitors the blood flow to the reconstructed breast to ensure the tissue is healing properly. Patients may experience some discomfort or tightness in the thigh and chest areas, which can be managed with pain medication.
Full recovery can take 4 to 6 weeks, during which patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, or prolonged standing to allow both the breast and thigh donor site to heal. Swelling and bruising in the thigh area are common but gradually subside over time.
Physical therapy may be recommended to improve mobility and strength. Most patients return to normal activities within a few months, enjoying a natural-looking and feeling breast reconstruction.
Initial recovery takes about 4-6 weeks for light activities, while full recovery, including resuming intense physical activity, may take up to 3 months. Your surgeon will provide a detailed recovery plan.
Swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are normal during the first few weeks. Pain is managed with medication, and compression garments help support healing in the thigh area.
Avoid heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least 6-8 weeks. Elevating your legs while sleeping and following your surgeon's aftercare instructions are essential for optimal recovery.
You can return to sedentary work within 2-3 weeks, but exercise and heavy activities should be avoided until cleared by your surgeon, typically after 6-8 weeks.
Light walking is encouraged earlier to improve circulation.
If you’re considering TUG Flap Reconstruction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Rachana Tataria to explore how this advanced surgical option can help you achieve natural-looking breast reconstruction.
Dr. Rachana combines expertise and compassion to create personalized treatment plans tailored to your needs, ensuring optimal results and a seamless recovery journey.
No, TUG Flap Reconstruction is a permanent procedure. Once the tissue is transplanted and integrated into its new location, it cannot be reversed.
However, revisions can be performed if necessary to enhance the appearance or address complications.
Temporary numbness in the chest and thigh areas is common after surgery. Sensation typically improves over time as the nerves heal, but in some cases, minor residual numbness may persist.
While initial results are visible soon after surgery, swelling may obscure the final appearance. Most patients can see full results within 6-12 months as the body heals and settles.
The gracilis muscle works as part of a group of muscles that move the hip to bring the legs together. When the muscle is removed your leg movements should not be affected in the long term as the remaining muscles will strengthen and compensate.
If you have any particular hobbies or sports that you participate in please inform your surgeon and they will discuss whether removal of the muscle would impact on these.
Yes, additional procedures, such as an nipple reconstruction or cosmetic contouring, can often be performed alongside or after TUG Flap reconstruction to enhance overall outcomes.
The option of immediate nipple and areolar reconstruction is unique to TUG flap reconstruction. Consult Dr. Rachana Tataria to discuss your options.
