TUG (Transverse Upper Gracilis Flap)

The TUG flap procedure uses skin, fat and the gracilis muscle from the inner thigh to reconstruct a “natural”, warm, soft breast. The scar is made high in the inner thigh and is generally very well hidden near the groin crease. The design is similar to the cosmetic inner thigh lift.

Unlike loss of other muscles (like the rectus abdominus in the TRAM flap), loss of the gracilis muscle does not result in any noticeable functional impairment. The tissue is dissected from the inner thigh and transplanted to the chest where it is reattached microsurgically.

The shape of the TUG flap allows shaping of the breast with a very aesthetic contour and projection. Like the DIEP, SIEA and GAP flaps, the living tissue also ensures a soft, warm and very “natural” reconstruction.

The TUG flap is a very good option for women who have small breasts, want to avoid an abdominal scar or do not have enough abdominal tissue or are not candidates for DIEP flap reconstruction.

Advantages of the TUG flap include:
1. Excellent projection of reconstructed breast
2. Consistent blood supply
3. Results in an “inner thigh lift”