Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction Candidates
Ideal candidates for a latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction are women who have a desire to complete most reconstruction phases in one procedure (direct to implant), a need for significant skin removal as part of mastectomy, had previous reduction for lumpectomy prior to mastectomy, or need an alternative reconstructive surgery due to a previous flap procedure failing. You may not be a good candidate if you smoke or have a condition that affects your circulation, such as uncontrolled diabetes, vascular disease, or a connective tissue disease like rheumatoid arthritis since blood vessels are moved and reconnected during a flap procedure.
What to Expect During a Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction Consultation
During your consultation, I will talk to you about your medical history and go over your surgical goals for the procedure. I will examine your breasts and determine if there is enough tissue in your back to create a new breast. A discussion about size of implant to be used with the latissimus flap and opposite breast symmetry procedures will be reviewed. My staff and I will also go over any potential risks or outcomes of the surgery.
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How to Prepare for Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction
To prepare for latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction surgery, you may need a chest x-ray, lab testing, or to adjust your current medications. You will also need to avoid taking any blood thinners or anti-inflammatory medication, such as aspirin. If you are a smoker, I will ask you to quit smoking for six weeks before your procedure. If you are not able to quit smoking, you will not be able to have the surgery. After your procedure, you will also need to make arrangements for someone to drive you home and help take care of you as you recover, whether it be a caregiver or a family member.
Latissimus Dorsi Flap Breast Reconstruction Procedure in NJ
During latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction surgery, I make an incision in your back. The exact location of the back incision depends on the mastectomy incision location on the breast. I slide an oval flap of blood vessels, fat, muscle, and skin through a tunnel under your arm to your chest, forming it into a new breast shape. I leave the blood vessels attached to their original blood supply in your back. If any blood vessels need to be cut, I match them to blood vessels in your chest and carefully reattach them under a microscope. If you are also receiving an implant, I will insert the implant underneath the flap to create a more natural-looking breast shape.
Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction Recovery
It can take about four weeks to fully recover from latissimus dorsi reconstruction surgery. I will give you specific post-operative instructions to follow, including how to care for your dressings, stitches, staples, and surgical drains. I will also give you recommendations on when to start stretching exercises and when to return back to normal activities. Generally, I recommend avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous activities for at least four weeks after your latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction. You should start seeing a more natural breast shape after swelling subsides during your recovery process.
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