Latissimus Flap Reconstruction

During the latissimus reconstruction procedure, muscle is removed from the back and transferred to the chest area along with an expander/implant to rebuild the breast.  The latissimus dorsi flap is typically thinner and smaller than the DIEP flap, thereby requiring an additional implant to create a large enough breast mound. This flap is frequently used when there is not enough skin available to use a soft tissue expander alone, there is too much tightness after the mastectomy, or radiation therapy has been used.

Latissimus flap reconstruction is performed under general anesthesia and patients stay in the hospital typically for two days. Because the microscope is not generally required, the length of surgery and hospital stay are shorter. After 2-3 weeks, patients can resume daily activities.  Surgical drains will be placed and removed in 1-2 weeks depending on the amount of drainage.

Side effects may include temporary or permanent muscle weakness, and decreased movement in the back and shoulder.   Patients will have a scar on the back, which can usually be covered by the bra line, as well as additional scars on the reconstructed breast.  In 6-8 weeks, once the incisions are completely healed, we will reconstruct the nipples and then tattoo the nipple areolar complex.