Breast Reconstruction with Flap Procedures
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Your surgeon can help you decide whether to have reconstructive surgery. You will be advised to wait if now is not the best time for you.
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A flap procecure uses your own tissue to form the shape of a breast. There are two kinds of flap procedures: the TRAM flap and the LD flap.
TRAM Flap
The TRAM (transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous) flap uses abdominal muscle, fat, and skin. The new breast feels soft to the touch. A flap of skin and fat is removed from the lower part of the abdomen. Then the flap is tunneled under the skin from the abdomen to the mastectomy site. There the flap is formed into the shape of a breast.
LD Flap
The LD (latissimus dorsi) flap uses back muscle, fat, and skin. The new breast feels soft to the touch. The flap of skin and fat is removed from the side of the body, over the ribs. The latissimus dorsi muscle is left attached to the flap. Then the flap is tunneled under the skin to the mastectomy site. There it is formed into the shape of a breast.
Note to Smokers
Refrain from smoking 3–4 weeks before and 1–2 weeks after your procedure. Smoking can interfere with the healing process.
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Risks of Flap Reconstruction
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Publication Source:
Wilhelmi BJ, Phillips LG, Sabiston Textbook of Surgery, 17th ed., Chapter 33 - Reconstruction of the breast, 2004, pp 930-931
Publication Source:
Wilhelmi BJ, Phillips LG, Sabiston Textbook of Surgery, 17th ed., Chapter 33 - Reconstruction of the breast, 2004, pp 936-939
Online Medical Reviewer:
Trahan, Katherine MD
Date Last Reviewed:
1/15/2007
Date Last Modified:
8/1/2005