Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.

Breast Reconstruction with Flap ProceduresReconstrucci³n del seno con colgajo

Breast Reconstruction with Flap Procedures

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.

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.

Cutaway view

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.

Cutaway view

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.

Risks of Flap Reconstruction

Infection
Muscle weakness
Scar tissue
Increased complications in smokers

Date Last Reviewed: 2007-01-15T00:00:00-07:00

Date Last Modified: 2005-08-01T00:00:00-06:00

Contact us at Northwest Oncology & Hematology. You can reach us at 847.870.4100 (Rolling Meadows office), 847.437.3312 (Elk Grove Village office), 847.885.4100 (Hoffman Estates office), 847.842.0180 (Barrington office) and 847.577.1023 (Elgin office). For your convenience, you can also use our New Patient Appointment online form to schedule your consultation with us.

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If at any time you are unable to reach a physician after hours using our office phone numbers, contact the answering service directly at (847) 758-2846.