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Fisher et al. Plast Aesthet Res 2024;11:36 Plastic and
DOI: 10.20517/2347-9264.2024.53
Aesthetic Research

Review Open Access

Lumbar artery perforator free flaps for breast
reconstruction

1
Marlie H. Fisher , David T. Greenspun 2
1
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
2
The Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Group, Greenwich, CT 06831, USA.
Correspondence to: Dr. David T. Greenspun, The Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery Group, 2 Greenwich Office Park, Suite 210,
Greenwich, CT 06831, USA. E-mail: dg@tprsg.com
How to cite this article: Fisher MH, Greenspun DT. Lumbar artery perforator free flaps for breast reconstruction. Plast Aesthet
Res 2024;11:36. https://dx.doi.org/10.20517/2347-9264.2024.53
Received: 9 Apr 2024 First Decision: 5 Jun 2024 Revised: 14 Jul 2024 Accepted: 23 Jul 2024 Published: 9 Aug 2024

Academic Editors: Christodoulos Kaoutzanis, Raymund E. Horch Copy Editor: Dong-Li Li Production Editor: Dong-Li Li

Abstract
Despite its technical complexity, the lumbar artery perforator (LAP) flap remains a valuable asset in the realm of
autologous breast reconstruction, providing an option for patients who may not be suitable candidates for
abdominal flaps. The LAP flap offers dimensions and volume suitable for recreating a natural breast shape,
including a sloping upper pole and optimal projection in the lower third. Harvesting LAP flaps can also lead to
simultaneous improvement in body contour by lifting the buttocks and narrowing the waist, following the principles
of aesthetic body lift procedures.

Keywords: Breast reconstruction, lumbar artery perforator flap, microsurgery

INTRODUCTION
Breast reconstruction, either implant-based or autologous tissue, is a crucial component to the care of breast
cancer patients. Autologous free tissue transfer has many advantages over implant-based reconstruction, as
it provides a more natural appearance to the breast, longer-lasting results, more satisfying nipple areola
complex (NAC) outcomes, and an overall more satisfying reconstructive outcome for patients . Patients
[1,2]
undergoing autologous tissue reconstruction have been shown to have increased satisfaction with their
breast reconstruction, overall outcomes, and quality of life .
[3-5]

© The Author(s) 2024. Open Access This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0
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adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, for any purpose, even commercially, as
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