Women who have battled breast cancer and have lost one or both breasts in a mastectomy often turn to New Windsor plastic surgeon Dr. Jonathan Fugo for breast reconstruction. Among the procedures he performs is latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction, which uses the patient’s own body tissues to rebuild the breast mound.
This is similar in some ways to TRAM Flap Breast Reconstruction, though that procedure uses tissues from the patient’s mid-section, while latissimus uses tissues from the patient’s back.
Am I a Candidate for Latissimus Dorsi Flap Breast Reconstruction in New York?
Patients who are averse to implant-based breast reconstruction or may lack sufficient tissues at the midsection for the TRAM technique may be ideal candidates for latissimus flap breast reconstruction. Many patients prefer this procedure over implants because it incorporates natural tissues.
The Latissimus Dorsi Flap Breast Reconstruction Procedure
Your breast reconstruction procedure can take up to four hours to perform. In most cases, the patient is given a general anesthetic and will sleep through the entire operation. You should expect a hospital stay of at least two days following your surgery.
Through careful incisions hidden in the natural folds of your skin, Dr. Fugo will access the muscle and tissues in your mid to upper back. Using special techniques, he will partially detach these tissues and tunnel them to the breast wall. Here, Dr. Fugo will mold and shape the breast mound to match the original breast.
When he has created an ideal result, Dr. Fugo will close the incisions and cover them with a surgical dressing. Surgical drains will also likely be applied at this time. These will collect any fluid build-up as you heal. Your breasts may then be covered with compression garments which will maintain their new shape.
Caring for Yourself After Latissimus Dorsi Flap Breast Reconstruction
Following your Latissimus flap breast reconstruction in New Windsor, you will likely stay in the hospital for at least two days. Though your movement will be limited, Dr. Fugo will expect you to begin walking on the second day. As you return home, you will need to have assistance as even everyday tasks will be much more difficult. Dr. Fugo will likely prescribe pain medication to help you manage discomfort during this time. After a couple of weeks, your mobility will increase and you will make a follow-up visit to have the surgical drains removed.
In the coming weeks and months, you will experience an increase in your strength and energy and can incorporate more of your regular activities, like exercise. Dr. Fugo is an excellent resource and will help guide you with appropriate instructions for moving and exercising as you continue to heal. It is important to stay within your comfort zone and not push your body beyond its limits.
When swelling has dissipated and you are healed, the effects of the rebuilt breast mound will be evident. Several months after surgery, patients will often have the nipple areola recreated using a variety of techniques.
If you have lost one or both breasts following cancer treatment, we encourage you to find out more about latissimus flap breast reconstruction in New Windsor. Plastic surgeon Dr. Fugo and his staff are eager to hear from you. Please call us today to schedule your consultation.
To find out more about latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction in New York, click here to contact our office.