Free Flap Reconstruction in Lubbock, TX — Microvascular Free Tissue Transfer

Introduction
Free flap (microvascular) reconstruction is a powerful technique in reconstructive surgery, allowing transplantation of complex tissue—skin, fat, muscle, bone—with its blood supply to restore defects caused by trauma, cancer surgery, congenital malformations, or previous surgical failures. At FacePLUS Plastic Surgery, Dr. Boonipat uses microsurgical free flap techniques to restore both functional and aesthetic integrity.

When Is a Free Flap Recommended?

• After oncologic resection (e.g. head & neck cancer)

• Following facial trauma with tissue loss

• Reconstruction of complex skull base / scalp / calvarial defects

• Salvage of failed local flaps or irradiated tissue beds

• Congenital defects or craniofacial anomalies

Types of Free Flaps We Use
We tailor the flap choice based on defect size, tissue type, and donor site. Some common flaps include:

• Radial forearm free flap (RFFF)

• Fibula (osteocutaneous) free flap (for bone and soft tissue)

• Anterolateral thigh (ALT) flap

• Scapular / parascapular flap

• Latissimus dorsi flap

• Dorsalis pedis or other perforator flaps

Dr. Boonipat’s experience in both soft tissue and bony reconstruction ensures comprehensive planning when defects require composite flaps.

The Surgical Process

1. Consultation & Planning

   • Clinical evaluation, imaging (CT, MRI, angiography)

   • 3D surgical planning, virtual simulations

   • Discussion of risks, benefits, alternatives

2. Pre-Op Preparation

   • Medical workup (labs, cardiology if needed)

   • Donor site mapping, flap design

3. Microsurgery & Transfer

   • Flap harvest, vascular anastomosis under microscope

   • Inset and shaping of tissue, bone fixation if required

   • Donor site closure

4. Post-Op Monitoring & Care

   • Intensive flap monitoring (hourly checks initially)

   • Management of perfusion, anticoagulation

   • Physical therapy / rehabilitation

   • Long-term follow-up for functional and aesthetic outcomes

Risks & Considerations
While free flap surgery is highly effective, patients should understand the risks:

• Partial or total flap loss (rare with experienced microsurgeons)

• Bleeding, infection, wound complications

• Donor site morbidity (scarring, weakness)

• Vascular thrombosis, delayed healing

• Need for revision surgery

Your candidacy will be carefully assessed, and we emphasize shared decision making.

Outcomes & Benefits

• Robust, well-vascularized tissue—better healing in irradiated or compromised beds

• Restoration of both form and function (e.g. swallowing, speech, facial contour)

• Durability and long-term viability

• Ability to reconstruct multi-layer, composite defects

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Who Should Consider Free Flap Reconstruction in Lubbock?

• Patients in West Texas, New Mexico, and surrounding regions needing advanced reconstructive surgery

• Individuals referred by head & neck surgeons, oncologic surgeons, or trauma centers

• Patients willing to travel for high-level microvascular reconstructive care — we accommodate traveling patients with coordinated logistics and concierge support.

 

 

If you or a loved one require advanced reconstructive surgery, please request a consultation for free flap reconstruction. Our team is ready to help you restore what matters.