Lateral intercostal artery perforator (LICAP)

Lateral Intercostal Artery Perforator (LICAP) Flap Surgery is a breast reconstruction technique that uses skin and fat from the lateral chest wall to restore breast volume and shape following breast-conserving surgery or partial mastectomy. This approach preserves the underlying muscles, reduces scarring, and provides a natural, aesthetic outcome with minimal donor-site complications.

The LICAP flap is based on the lateral intercostal artery perforators, small blood vessels that supply skin and fat in the outer chest region. Surgeons harvest this tissue without removing muscle, ensuring faster recovery and minimal impact on shoulder function. The flap is then carefully reshaped and repositioned to restore breast contour and symmetry.

Using imaging techniques such as Doppler ultrasound, surgeons locate the lateral intercostal artery perforators to ensure adequate blood supply. A small incision is made along the outer chest wall, and a segment of skin and fat is carefully removed without affecting the muscle. The harvested tissue is repositioned and reshaped to restore the natural breast volume and correct contour irregularities after lumpectomy or mastectomy. The donor site is closed with minimal scarring, and the patient can typically recover faster than with more invasive procedures. Lateral Intercostal Artery Perforator (LICAP) Flap Surgery is an effective, muscle-sparing option for women seeking natural, minimal-scar breast reconstruction after lumpectomy.