OasisLMS

This course provides an overview of thigh-based free flaps that have become a popular flap option for autologous breast reconstruction. Critiques of thigh-based flaps include inadequate flap volume and donor-site concerns, such as poor appearance, sensory changes, and problematic healing; however, refinements in surgical technique have led to more predictable outcomes. The purpose of this article is to review the advantages and disadvantages of the various thigh-based free flaps for breast reconstruction, including gracilis myocutaneous, profunda artery perforator, and lateral thigh perforator flaps. Practical pearls for flap harvest and optimization of aesthetic results are provided. 

Intended Audience

This educational activity is intended for all CME-related persons including plastic surgery practitioners, residents, and other healthcare professionals.

Learning Objectives

At the conclusion of this activity, participants will be able to:

1. Define the indications, benefits, and drawbacks of thigh-based flap donor sites for breast reconstruction.
2. Recognize the differences between popular thigh-based flaps and the utility of each.
3. Understand the anatomy of thigh-based free flaps, including their landmarks, vascular pedicles, and techniques of flap harvest.
4. Manage donor-site healing and complications.

David E. Kurlander, MD
Carrie K. Chu, MD
Deana S. Shenaq, MD

Editor-in-Chief: Kevin Chung, MD

Co-Editor: Amy Colwell, MD

Section Editors: John Y.S. Kim, MD

• Patient Care and Procedural Skills
• Medical Knowledge
• Practice-based Learning and Improvement

Accreditation

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Designation

The ASPS designates this enduring material for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

AMA PRA Category 1 CreditTM: 1.0

Media: Journal Article

Release Date: 7/29/2026

Expiration Date: 7/29/2029*

Estimated time to complete this course: 1 hour

*Course access ends on course expiration date

Disclosure Policy

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) requires all instructors, planners, reviewers, managers and other individuals in a position to control or influence the content of an activity to disclose all relevant financial relationships or affiliations. All identified conflicts of interest must be resolved and the educational content thoroughly vetted by ASPS for fair balance, scientific objectivity and appropriateness of patient care recommendations. ASPS also requires faculty/authors to disclose when off-label/unapproved uses of product are discussed in a CME activity or included in related materials.

Disclaimer: All relevant financial relationships for planners, faculty and others in control of content (either individually or as a group) are reviewed by the ASPS Continuing Education Committee and have been mitigated, if applicable.

The following planners and faculty members have no relevant financial relationships or affiliations to disclose:

David E. Kurlander, MD
Carrie K. Chu, MD
Deana S. Shenaq, MD

Editor-in-Chief: Kevin Chung, MD

Co-Editor: Amy Colwell, MD

Section Editors: John Y.S. Kim, MD

Recognition Statement

The Continuing Medical Education (CME) credits offered by this activity are enhanced by ASPS Learner Credit Reporting for learners who have opted into this reporting. Successful completion of this CME activity enables active American Board of Surgery (ABS) members the opportunity to earn credit toward the CME requirement of the ABS's Continuous Certification program when claimed within 30 days of completion of the activity.

Directly provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons® (ASPS®)

Participants in ASPS-accredited education who want their CME credits reported to certifying and state licensing boards must opt-in to reporting and add their NPI as well as state license ID and/or collaborating board ID(s) before claiming credit.