|
Procedures - Breast Reconstruction: Reconstruction using a combination of implant and flap
This reconstructive method uses a combination of an implant and a flap from the latissimus muscle (located in the back). This option works very well for a lot of situations. In very thin women, this procedure helps to provide more tissue over an implant, which helps it look and feel more natural. It is an easier recovery than a TRAM flap reconstruction. In delayed reconstruction, it negates the need for an expander, allowing us to do the reconstruction as one operation. If radiation has been done, it allows us to put non-radiated tissue over the implant with a significantly lower risk of capsule contracture ("hardening of the breast").
The operation involves taking skin and muscle from the back to supply the skin removed during the mastectomy. It does not have enough bulk to build a breast, so an implant is placed under this flap of tissue. This operation takes about 1 1/2 hours, and most women spend one or two nights in the hospital afterwards. There is a resulting scar on the back, but it is well hidden in the bra line. The latissimus muscle is expendable, as there are other muscles that will take over its function. Athletes may notice some reduced strength in some situations, but the majority of women will recover full use of the arm and shoulder following physical therapy. This flap procedure is a "safer" flap procedure than the TRAM flap procedure in that its blood supply is very good, and few wound healing complications are seen. This is a good choice for a lot of women who cannot or do not have TRAM flap options. Breast Reconstruction Links: National Cancer Institute - Understanding Breast Cancer Treatment American Cancer Society - Breast Reconstruction After Mastectomy CancerBACUP - Understanding Reconstruction of the Breast American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Breast Reconstruction INAMED Corporation Mentor Corporation Breast Surgery Procedures: Breast Augmentation / Enlargement Mastopexy / Breast lift Breast Reduction Breast Reconstruction Implant Reconstruction Flap Reconstruction Combination Reconstruction |
 |
|
|
 |