Achieve natural-looking breast reconstruction using your own tissue with the diagonal upper gracilis (DUG) flap. This procedure restores breast shape and volume using inner thigh tissue. Dr. Jordan M.S. Jacobs specializes in advanced techniques like the DUG flap to treat breast loss after mastectomy with precision and artistry.
Restore Breast Shape Using Inner Thigh Tissue
The diagonal upper gracilis (DUG) flap is a type of natural-tissue breast reconstruction that uses skin, fat, and a small portion of the gracilis muscle from the inner thigh. This tissue is shaped to form a new breast with soft, youthful contours. Although the DUG flap is not a true perforator flap, it removes only a minimal amount of muscle, preserving leg strength and function. It is often recommended when abdominal tissue is unavailable or unsuitable, providing a reliable alternative for women seeking autologous breast reconstruction.
You May Consider DUG Flap If:
- You have insufficient abdominal tissue for reconstruction
- You prefer a natural-tissue option over implants
- You want to avoid using the abdominal muscles
- You are healthy enough for microsurgical procedures
- You have adequate inner thigh tissue available
- You seek a youthful breast shape with good projection
- You previously had implant complications or failure
- You want to avoid abdominal scarring or hernia risk
Explore Your Options & Visualize the Results
Your consultation with Dr. Jacobs begins with a detailed review of your medical history, previous surgeries, and personal goals for breast reconstruction. He will carefully examine your body to assess potential donor sites, such as your inner thighs, to determine whether the diagonal upper gracilis (DUG) flap is a suitable option. You’ll also discuss any previous treatments, like mastectomy or radiation, and how they might affect your reconstruction plan.
To help you make informed decisions, Dr. Jacobs uses the state-of-the-art Vectra XT 3D imaging system. This technology captures high-resolution images of your body and simulates how different reconstruction techniques, such as the DUG flap, may look on your frame. You’ll be able to preview potential results, ask questions, and collaborate with Dr. Jacobs to design a surgical plan that meets both your medical and aesthetic goals.
Your DUG Flap Session
During your procedure, Dr. Jacobs will harvest a crescent-shaped section of skin, fat, and a small portion of the gracilis muscle from the upper inner thigh. This flap, taken along a diagonal orientation for improved shaping and healing, includes the necessary blood vessels to sustain the tissue. Using microsurgical techniques, Dr. Jacobs will transfer the flap to your chest and connect its blood vessels to recipient vessels, typically the internal mammary or thoracodorsal vessels, under a surgical microscope to ensure proper blood flow.
Once the flap is successfully revascularized, Dr. Jacobs will shape the tissue into a new breast mound, creating a natural contour with youthful projection. The donor site on your thigh is then closed in layers to reduce tension and support healing. Careful flap design and surgical precision help minimize thigh weakness and preserve normal leg function.
The Recovery Process After the DUG Flap
After your DUG flap surgery, you’ll spend a few days in the hospital so your care team can monitor your flap and ensure stable blood flow. You may experience swelling, bruising, or tightness in the inner thigh and chest area. Pain is typically well managed with medication, and most patients are up and walking the next day with assistance.
You must avoid strenuous activity and heavy lifting for at least six weeks. Dr. Jacobs will provide instructions on how to care for your incisions and manage any surgical drains. Compression garments may be recommended to support your thigh as it heals. While you’ll be able to resume light activities within a few weeks, full recovery and return to normal routines typically take six to eight weeks.
The Final DUG Flap Results
Over time, the DUG flap creates a soft, natural-looking breast that feels warm and responds to your body like your own tissue. Because it uses living tissue, the reconstructed breast ages with you and does not require maintenance like implants.
The scars on the thigh and chest will fade over time, and the final results will become more apparent within a few months. Most patients are pleased with the symmetry, projection, and long-term durability of their results.
Why Choose Dr. Jordan M.S. Jacobs?
New York’s premier breast reconstruction specialist
Dr. Jordan M.S. Jacobs is a board-certified plastic surgeon and a recognized expert in microsurgical breast reconstruction. He brings advanced technical skill, artistic precision, and compassion to every patient he treats. With a focus on restoring both form and confidence, Dr. Jacobs takes time to understand your goals and design a surgical plan tailored to your body and lifestyle. If you’re considering the DUG flap, schedule a consultation to explore your options with New York’s premier breast reconstruction specialist.
