LTP Flap

The LTP flap stands for the lateral thigh perforator flap, a method pioneered by Dr. Robert Allen, a veteran breast reconstructive surgeon. This type of flap is taken from the saddlebag area or outer thigh region of the leg and is ideal for those who lack sufficient abdominal fat or inner thigh material to create a breast mound. It is an excellent solution for women with pear-shaped bodies who feel comfortable with a resulting scar on the outer thigh. Dr. Jamie Zampell’s Torrance LTP flap procedure can move you even closer to your reconstruction or beauty goals.

What is the lateral thigh perforator flap?

While the abdominal area remains the primary choice for most autologous breast reconstruction, alternative donor sites are required when the patient's anatomy does not support the usual route. With the LTP flap, fatty tissue can be taken from the saddlebag area, or outer thighs and used to create adequately sized breasts mounds. This type of procedure is used only for very specific body types since it leaves a visible scar on the outer thigh.

What are the benefits of the LTP flap?

An excellent alternative to flaps created from abdominal tissue or inner thigh tissue
Appropriate for pear shaped women
Large skin island and long pedicle
Ease of dissection
Added benefit of addressing excess fat on the outer thigh or “saddlebag”
Patients are able to use their own body tissue to recreate the breasts

Woman looking down with her hand in her hair

Who makes a good candidate for the LTP flap?

If a patient is not a candidate for an abdominal flap, but still wishes to avoid implants, the lateral thigh perforator flap may be a good option. As mentioned earlier, one of the benefits of this type of surgery is that it addresses excess outer thigh fat in addition to a minor thigh lift, so those patients desiring lower body contouring may be good candidates.

As with all surgeries, the best way to find out if you're a good candidate is to meet with Dr. Zampell in private at her Torrance office to discuss your options for reconstruction. She will perform an in-depth physical evaluation as well as a review of your medical history and will then make her best recommendation for the type of flap suited to your anatomy and aesthetic goals. Rest assured, Dr. Zampell’s Torrance and Beverly Hills LTP flap aesthetic restoring procedures are of the highest quality in the area.

What can I expect from my recovery?

During recovery, you will be closely monitored and provided with adequate pain medications. Your total recovery time will last somewhere between four and six weeks. After a few days you can begin to move around gently, which will help stimulate your circulation and also improve your mood. Dr. Zampell will provide you with a full, detailed aftercare plan as well as a schedule for your follow-up visits to ensure your recuperation remains on track.

Before & After

Why choose Dr. Zampell in Beverly Hills for the LTP flap?

Dr. Zampell is an accomplished breast reconstructive surgeon thoroughly trained in the complex art of microsurgery. She can go to any lengths necessary to improve quality of life for survivors of breast cancer. Each procedure is customized and tailored to the patient's unique anatomy, providing options for patients of all body sizes and shapes. Dr. Zampell is an extremely compassionate provider and understands the courage it takes to pursue reconstructive surgery after mastectomy or lumpectomy.

Dr. Zampell trained under the guidance of Dr. Robert Allen, the pioneer responsible for autologous flap techniques used around the world today. She graduated with honors from Ohio State University College of Medicine, afterwards pursuing a rigorous residency in plastic and general surgery at NYU Medical Center. Dr. Zampell subsequently completed a demanding fellowship in microsurgery at the University of California Los Angeles.