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TUG Flap Breast Reconstruction Was a Great Choice for Me
Dr. Wheeler and his team guided me through a transverse upper gracilis (thigh flap) breast reconstruction following a double mastectomy. Dr. Wheeler explained each of the available reconstruction options and went through the pros and cons for my situation. His explanations were very matter of fact, which I liked. He says it like it is. I knew what my choices were and what to expect from each regarding surgery, recovery, and healing down the road. He did not try to sell any option over another.
For me, the thigh flap procedure allowed me to keep my nipples, use my own tissue (which is warm compared to implants) and get a thigh lift as a side benefit (not that I was looking for that.) I did not have belly fat to use so had to go to thighs. Once the decision was made, Dr. Wheeler and his team coordinated all of my care including after the mastectomy.
The surgery went off without a hitch and I was in the hospital for one night. As long as I could get up, walk around and use the bathroom independently, they were fine letting me go home. I was on prescription pain medication for 10 days and then only used Tylenol for a week or so after that.
The healing process was a little bumpy. I developed an infection at the incision site in one leg which was dealt with promptly. Later, I had a large seroma in one breast and had to have a drain reinserted by a radiologist and then developed an infection. Again, Dr. Wheeler and his team were very responsive and took care of the issue right away. I was always so relieved to be able to talk to someone at Plastic Surgery Northwest without having to be put on hold or wait for a call back.
It has been 9 weeks (ish) since reconstruction and I am back to doing pretty much whatever I want. I have not yet been able to start running again, but will do so in the coming weeks. I am currently doing a 30-day plank challenge to rebuild arm, chest and core muscles. :)
I am very happy with the outcome of the surgery. My breasts are a different shape than they were originally but close to the same size. There is numbness on the breast mound which is to be expected following mastectomy. I have a bit of fat necrosis in each breast but it isn't painful and will get smaller over time - it's just a thickened spot which you can't see or feel unless you press on it.
I can't recommend Dr. Wheeler highly enough. His staff is absolutely the best. They genuinely care about me and my medical adventure. Medical appointments are always very efficient. I rarely had to wait. They encouraged me to ask questions or share worries. They always explained what I should expect each step of the way.
I had breast cancer. Now I don't. I am comfortable with my breasts and scars. I'm super grateful for the care received from Dr. Wheeler and his team. I'm moving on with my life now!
For me, the thigh flap procedure allowed me to keep my nipples, use my own tissue (which is warm compared to implants) and get a thigh lift as a side benefit (not that I was looking for that.) I did not have belly fat to use so had to go to thighs. Once the decision was made, Dr. Wheeler and his team coordinated all of my care including after the mastectomy.
The surgery went off without a hitch and I was in the hospital for one night. As long as I could get up, walk around and use the bathroom independently, they were fine letting me go home. I was on prescription pain medication for 10 days and then only used Tylenol for a week or so after that.
The healing process was a little bumpy. I developed an infection at the incision site in one leg which was dealt with promptly. Later, I had a large seroma in one breast and had to have a drain reinserted by a radiologist and then developed an infection. Again, Dr. Wheeler and his team were very responsive and took care of the issue right away. I was always so relieved to be able to talk to someone at Plastic Surgery Northwest without having to be put on hold or wait for a call back.
It has been 9 weeks (ish) since reconstruction and I am back to doing pretty much whatever I want. I have not yet been able to start running again, but will do so in the coming weeks. I am currently doing a 30-day plank challenge to rebuild arm, chest and core muscles. :)
I am very happy with the outcome of the surgery. My breasts are a different shape than they were originally but close to the same size. There is numbness on the breast mound which is to be expected following mastectomy. I have a bit of fat necrosis in each breast but it isn't painful and will get smaller over time - it's just a thickened spot which you can't see or feel unless you press on it.
I can't recommend Dr. Wheeler highly enough. His staff is absolutely the best. They genuinely care about me and my medical adventure. Medical appointments are always very efficient. I rarely had to wait. They encouraged me to ask questions or share worries. They always explained what I should expect each step of the way.
I had breast cancer. Now I don't. I am comfortable with my breasts and scars. I'm super grateful for the care received from Dr. Wheeler and his team. I'm moving on with my life now!
Provider Review
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
530 S. Cowley St., Spokane, Washington