TRAM Flap Surgery Candidates
Ideal candidates for TRAM flap surgery are women who have had a single or double mastectomy to treat breast cancer and who have enough fat and tissue in the abdomen to support the procedure. Good candidates should also have no medical conditions or other illnesses that may delay the healing process, as well as reasonable expectations for the outcomes of surgery.
What to Expect During a TRAM Flap Consultation
During your TRAM flap reconstruction consultation, I will examine your breasts and evaluate your abdomen for the procedure. Before your tramp flap surgery, I will consult with you about your health, medical history, and previous surgeries. Together we will develop a plan that provides you the best surgical options to prevent or treat your breast cancer and reconstruct your breasts. My team and I will also go over any potential risks that could occur during or after surgery.
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How to Prepare for TRAM Flap Reconstruction
I will give you pre-operative instructions for you to follow before your procedure. I may ask you to adjust your current medications, quit smoking, stop taking anti-inflammatory medication, and get additional lab testing to prepare for your TRAM flap surgery. I will also ask you to make arrangements for someone to drive you home after your hospital stay.
TRAM Flap Surgery in NJ
There are two main types of breast reconstruction TRAM flaps procedures I perform depending on your surgical treatment.
TRAM Flap Reconstruction Recovery
It takes about six to eight weeks to recover from a tram flap reconstruction. After your surgery, you will be moved to the recovery room where you will stay in the hospital for about two to four days. I will place drains in your reconstructed breasts and in your abdominal donor site, putting you in a compression girdle to wear for six weeks to reduce swelling and bruising. My team and I will also give you specific instructions to follow for your recovery, including how to take care of your incision sites.
Since you had surgery on your chest and abdomen, it may take you longer to recover from tram flap surgery. You may find it difficult to sit down or get up from sitting due to your abdominal surgery, but I can show you how to use your other muscles to compensate until your abdominal muscles heal. I usually recommend that you avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for about six weeks after your procedure. However, once your breasts have fully healed you will see a dramatic improvement in the appearance of your breasts.
Request Your Consultation with Dr. Spiro today!
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