Gluteal free flap is a less common type of breast reconstruction surgery. The surgeon cuts a flap of muscle, fat, and skin from the buttocks and moves it to the chest to create a new breast. The blood vessels are also cut. After the flap is in place, the surgeon sews the blood vessels in the flap to blood vessels in the chest area. This requires careful surgery using a microscope.
Gluteal free flap may be a good choice for thin women who don't have enough belly tissue for DIEP or TRAM flap surgery. But the buttocks may be uneven after surgery.
Current as of:
April 13, 2022
Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine Laura S. Dominici MD - General Surgery, Breast Surgical Oncology
Medical Review:Sarah Marshall MD - Family Medicine & Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine & Laura S. Dominici MD - General Surgery, Breast Surgical Oncology
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy.
How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.