Breast Reconstruction: Latissimus Muscle Flap - Bilateral

The goal of breast reconstruction is to restore one or both breasts to near normal shape, appearance, symmetry and size following mastectomy, lumpectomy or congenital deformities.

Breast reconstruction often involves multiple procedures performed in stages and can either begin at the time of mastectomy or be delayed until a later date.

Breast reconstruction generally falls into two categories: implant-based reconstruction or flap reconstruction. Implant reconstruction relies on breast implants to help form a new breast mound. Learn more Here. Flap (or autologous) reconstruction uses the patient's own tissue from another part of the body to form a new breast.

Procedure Time

2 hour

Time to Final Results

3 - 6 months

Recovery Time

2 - 3 weeks

  • Take certain medications or adjust your current medications

    Stop smoking

    Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding

  • Be sure to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from surgery, and to stay with you the first night following surgery.

    · Minimal activities for the first 2 weeks after surgery.

    · Remember to position yourself as you have been instructed.

    · Leave the wrap in place as it helps with the swelling. At the time of the first postoperative visit the wrap will be removed.

    · Do not raise your arms above your shoulders.

    · NO heavy lifting, pushing or pulling for a minimum of 1 week. Do not get your heart rate up for 2 weeks.

    · After the first week, full range motion with your arm is permissible but lifting is restricted to 5 pounds or less.

    When your breast reduction procedure is complete, dressings or bandages will be applied to the incisions. An elastic bandage or support bra may be worn to minimize swelling and support the breasts as they heal.

    A small, thin tube may be temporarily placed under the skin to drain any excess blood or fluid that may collect.

    · Sutures on breast and back are normally dissolvable and do not need to be removed.

    · Sutures/Staples on the back are usually removed between 2-4 weeks post-op.

    · Moderate discomfort, which should be relieved by the pain medications. Also, placing well-padded ice bags high on the chest often relieves discomfort. You need to have your surgeon’s permission prior to using ice. This can be a contraindication in some cases.

    · Moderate swelling of the breasts and abdomen.

    · Bruising of the breasts and abdomen.

    · There may be some bloody drainage on the dressings.

    · You may shower/sponge bath 48 hrs. after surgery with assistance.

    Call the office if you experience:

    · Severe pain not responding to pain medications.

    · Excess swelling or swelling that is greater on one side than the other.

    · A bright red spot on the bandage which continues to enlarge.

    · Incisions that appear to be opening or becoming very red, hot to the touch or containing pus.

    · A fever.

    · You notice any signs of increasing firmness if one or both breasts.

    · Call the office if you have any questions.