When back tissue is used for breast reconstruction, it involves the latissimus dorsi muscle, along with the skin and fat that covers the muscle. This procedure is called a latissimus dorsi (LD) flap. The tissue from your back is removed and moved to the front of your chest, with the arteries and veins still attached.
Why is a latissimus dorsi used in breast reconstruction?
The latissimus dorsi helped to restore form and function by providing muscle coverage over the implant, replacing the breast skin and creating a natural ptosis.
What is latissimus flap reconstruction?
During latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction surgery, an incision is made in your back near your shoulder blade. Then, an oval section of skin, fat, blood vessels, and muscle is slid through a tunnel under the skin under your arm to your chest and formed into a breast shape.
Why is the latissimus muscle used in reconstructive surgery?
Reconstruction with the latissimus dorsi myocutaneous flap produces a breast with ptosis and projection while maintaining the natural consistency and feel of normal tissue. This flap provides ample bulk for reconstruction due to the large surface of the muscle.
How do you sleep after latissimus dorsi surgery?
Sleep with your head elevated on at least 2 pillows until otherwise directed. Do not lay upon or put any pressure upon the side(s) of your chest where the flap reconstruction was performed.
Can a latissimus dorsi flap be reversed?
It’s not really practical to actually “reverse” a latissimus flap, in the sense of putting it exactly back where it was. The flap can certainly be removed, however, and it is not at all unreasonable to think that that might help your symptoms.
Can you reverse a latissimus flap?
What should I wear after breast reconstruction surgery?
Wearing a soft, front-closing sports bra is a better option after breast reconstruction. Do not use an underwire bra for many months after reconstruction, and remove the underwire from any bras you wear during this time. Talk to your surgeon or surgical nurse about what bras will best meet your needs.
Can I sleep on my side after breast reconstruction?
Sleeping on your side or stomach immediately after breast reconstruction is not permitted. These positions put unnecessary pressure on your healing breast tissue and incisions. If you had implant-based reconstruction, side and back sleeping during recovery may result in malposition.
How do you relieve latissimus dorsi pain?
Treatment of Latissimus Dorsi Pain
- Rest by avoiding activities like exercising, which may cause more discomfort, pain, and swelling.
- Ice the injured area by using an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel for 15 to 20 minutes. Do this every 2 to 3 hours during the first few days after the injury.
What is latissimus dorsi muscle?
Introduction. The latissimus dorsi muscle is a broad, flat muscle that occupies the majority of the lower posterior thorax. The muscle’s primary function is of the upper extremity but is also considered to be a respiratory accessory muscle.
What are the possible complications of breast reconstruction?
Anesthesia complications
What are the options for breast reconstruction?
There are two primary methods for breast reconstruction: breast implants and autologous (or “flap”) reconstruction.
What are the options for breast cancer reconstruction?
By far, the most popular breast reconstruction option is the implant and tissue expander, says Gartside. Other options include using tissue flaps or an implant alone. In the flap technique, the surgeon repositions a woman’s own muscle, fat, and skin, creating or covering the breast mound.
What are the breast reconstruction options?
Understanding your options for breast reconstruction Implant-based reconstruction. Most patients choose to have implant-based reconstruction. Autologous tissue-based reconstruction. The other option for total mastectomy reconstruction is autologous tissue-based reconstruction. Oncoplastic breast surgery.
