On This Page
- What Is Pap Flap Reconstruction?
- Ideal Candidates
- Reviews & Opinions Of Existing Patients
- Surgical Technique
- The Pap Flap Reconstruction Experience
- Why Choose Snyder Plastic Surgery For Pap Flap Reconstruction
- Frequently Asked Questions About Pap Flap Reconstruction
- Schedule A Consultation
- Additonal Information
- Follow Us On Instagram
A Profunda Artery Perforator (PAP) flap reconstruction at Snyder Plastic Surgery offers a natural look and feel for reconstructed breasts using your own tissue. Dr. Ned Snyder IV, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, performs this advanced microsurgical technique, which spares the muscle in your thigh and leaves a discreet scar beneath the buttocks in the natural crease on the back of your upper thigh.
This approach allows patients who may not have sufficient abdominal tissue for a DIEP flap to still achieve natural, lasting results with minimal donor-site impact.
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Healing Process after Breast Reconstruction
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What Is PAP Flap Reconstruction?
PAP flap reconstruction uses skin, fat, and blood vessels from the upper inner thigh to reconstruct the breast after a mastectomy. The blood supply comes from the profunda femoris artery, located deep within the thigh, which provides excellent tissue quality for breast reconstruction.
Because the muscle is left intact, patients retain leg strength while achieving soft, natural breast contours. The scar is placed in the natural crease just below the buttocks, making it easily hidden even in swimwear or underwear.
A PAP flap often creates a breast that is equal in size or slightly larger than the one removed during mastectomy, making it an excellent option for women seeking balance and symmetry.
Ideal Candidates
PAP flap reconstruction may be ideal for women who:
- Lack enough abdominal tissue for DIEP or TRAM flap reconstruction
- Have had previous abdominal surgeries such as a tummy tuck or hernia repair
- Desire a natural reconstruction using their own tissue
- Are in good general health and non-smokers
- Prefer to avoid implants or are not candidates for implant-based reconstruction
Dr. Snyder will evaluate your anatomy, surgical history, and goals to determine if the PAP flap is the right technique for your breast reconstruction.
Surgical Technique
The PAP flap technique spares the thigh muscle and uses skin and fat from the upper back portion of the thigh. The donor-site scar rests naturally beneath the buttock crease. During surgery, Dr. Snyder carefully transfers the tissue and reconnects the blood vessels to the chest using microsurgical techniques.
Because this is essentially two surgeries in one, one at the donor site and one at the breast, it requires careful planning and surgical precision. During recovery, both areas (thigh and breast) are closely monitored for proper healing.
A PAP flap reconstruction often produces breasts that are soft, symmetrical, and natural in shape, with long-lasting results and minimal donor-site weakness.
The PAP Flap Reconstruction Experience
Once you have chosen to move forward with surgery, understanding what to expect before, during, and after your PAP flap procedure will help you feel confident and prepared for your reconstruction journey.
What to Expect: Step-by-Step
A PAP flap reconstruction uses the blood vessel that runs through the upper thigh to supply the transferred tissue. When abdominal tissue is not available, Dr. Snyder may recommend this option as the next best choice. This procedure is ideal for women who are not candidates for abdominal harvesting due to prior surgeries or insufficient tissue volume.
PAP flap reconstruction is performed under general anesthesia at an inpatient surgical facility. The procedure involves harvesting skin, fat, and blood vessels from the back of the upper thigh. The first step involves tissue removal and contouring, similar to liposuction or a thigh lift, to create the donor flap. Dr. Snyder then meticulously transfers and reattaches the tissue to the breast area, connecting the blood vessels under magnification to ensure proper blood flow and tissue viability.
After surgery, patients are monitored closely by our skilled post-operative nurses and medical team. Most patients remain in the hospital for several days to ensure proper healing and blood flow to the reconstructed breast.
Once discharged, you will need assistance at home for a few weeks as you regain mobility. It is normal to experience tightness or limited movement for one to six weeks after surgery. Dr. Snyder will see you for a follow-up visit about a week after discharge to assess healing, manage pain, and provide recovery guidance.
Avoid strenuous activity, exercise, or heavy lifting until Dr. Snyder clears you to resume normal activity. Following all recovery instructions is key to a smooth and successful healing process.
Why Choose Snyder Plastic Surgery for PAP Flap Reconstruction
At Snyder Plastic Surgery, patients benefit from Dr. Snyder’s expertise in complex breast reconstruction techniques, including advanced perforator flaps such as the PAP, DIEP, and GAP flaps. His commitment to precision, safety, and personalized care ensures that every reconstruction plan is tailored to the patient’s anatomy, treatment plan, and lifestyle.
As a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, Dr. Snyder is known for his compassionate approach and dedication to restoring both physical and emotional confidence. With convenient locations in Austin and Round Rock, TX, Snyder Plastic Surgery provides a trusted destination for women seeking expert breast reconstruction care.
Frequently Asked Questions About PAP Flap Reconstruction
How is a PAP flap breast reconstruction different from a DIEP flap?
Am I a candidate for a PAP flap reconstruction?
What is the recovery timeline after PAP flap surgery?
What are the donor-site effects of a PAP flap?
Will the reconstructed breast through PAP flap feel and look natural?
Schedule a Consultation
If you are considering PAP flap breast reconstruction, contact Snyder Plastic Surgery to schedule your consultation in Austin or Round Rock, TX. Dr. Ned Snyder IV and his team will help you understand your options and create a personalized surgical plan to achieve beautiful, natural results.
It is important to monitor for signs of infection or fever at the incision sites after surgery. If you notice excessive bleeding, persistent pain, or any unusual symptoms, contact our office right away. Our caring team is here to support you throughout your recovery journey.
learn more Additonal Information
For additional information about our services, procedures, and the patient experience at Snyder Plastic Surgery, please explore our website or contact our office. We are committed to providing comprehensive care and support from the initial consultation through recovery. Schedule a consultation today to begin your journey towards a more confident and beautiful you.
