Can I get TUG reconstruction, no implant, one surgery? Quickly?

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SoItGoes_KV
SoItGoes_KV Member Posts: 7
edited February 2020 in Breast Reconstruction

Help I am on a deadline (4 weeks) to decide on a reconstruction plan. I want as much of the reconstruction done as possible at the same time as the single breast, non-nipple sparing mastectomy. A longer recovery now is far preferable to multiple surgeries and adjustments in the future.

I believe TUG (transverse upper gracilis) flap is a good option for my 55 y/o A/B sized breast. Based on a Body Spec DXA scan the majority of my fat 41% is on my butt and thighs. And due to a knee injury, many years ago, my left thigh is 1-1.5" larger circumference than right with a total fat mass of 23.6lbs.

If my thigh (TUG) is ruled out then SIEA is my 2nd preference but I may not have enough skin and android (lower abdomen) fat there at 2.1lbs. I am also exploring if autologous fat grafting from the thigh can be used to create the entire breast.

I plan to ask at least 2 PS their advice, but want to hear from you all too, please.

    1. Would love to hear your research findings or experiences with TUG.
    2. Where can I find reviews on doctors who perform TUG?
    3. If the surgeries cannot be done in parallel what instructions do I give the general surgeons on sparing the skin for the future analogous reconstruction?
    4. Any comments on fat quantities or percentages needed?
    5. Any and all advice is welcome.

My back story: I am 20 days post dx. My oncologist and my cancer scientist friends want the cancer out in the next 4 weeks. Docs are planning non-nipple sparing mastectomy because the 12:00 tumor is too close to the skin requiring removal of the nipple and several cm of the skin above. I do not want the long-term maintenance of implants. And PS (who only does implants) said I am likely to have unmatched breast shapes needing follow-on tweaking of both breasts after initial healing. Yuck.

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