Latissimus Flap the Right Breast Reconstruction for Me?

Hello, Larger patients who want a tissue-based reconstruction after mastectomy do better in general with a Latissimus flap than a tummy-based flap. Your doctor should explain the options and why one might be better than another in your case. This is individual. Best Regards, John Di Saia MD

There are so many different options for breast reconstruction. The latissimus with an implant is just one option. Without examining you and reviewing your medical history it would be difficult to tell. A latissimus is not my first choice. I usually prefer autologus tissue without an implant.

It is very difficult to answer your question without knowledge of your breast cancer history, your breast cancer treatment(i.e. need for radiation therapy), and of course a physicial exam. Obesity does increase the potential risks associated with any breast reconstruction. However, that does not mean that the latissimus flap is your only option. For a generic introduction, there are two major categories for breast cancer reconstruction:(1) implant-based and(2) using your own tissue... more

It really depends. Are we talking about immediate breast reconstruction or is this a delayed procedure. Meaning have you had your mastectomy or are you going to have it. It depends on if you have been irradiated, how big your breasts are, and the type of the tumor. There is no straight forward answer, which is why I spend 1 hour during the consultations with my patients when they are undergoing breast reconstruction. We just need more info. But if that is what your plastic surgeon is... more

That is probably the reconstructive option with the lowest complication rate in an overweight individual other than no surgery at all. Of course, you could consider a staged expander and implant reconstruction as an alternative.

While a latissimus flap and implant combination is a common reconstructive method following mastectomy, you do not give enough information to make a suggestion. The fact that you are overweight makes planning difficult without knowing if you are stable or in the process of gaining or losing weight. Also the state of the good breast, which becomes the template or goal for the reconstruction, is unknown. You should careful plan out your alternatives. How stable your weight is will be... more

 It is a choice but without photos there is no way to determine which breast reconstructive operation option to recommend you chose. Regards from MIAMI

There are several options available for breast reconstruction which should be presented and discussed with the patient. The final decision depends on several factors. Option one: is Reconstruction with tissue expander, then an implant Option two: TRAM Flap Option three: Latismus Dorsi Flap with or without implant Option four: Autologus Free tissue Transfer (Free Flap), There are now many types of free flaps. The final decision depend on if you had radiation or not. your body build, and your... more