One-Step Latissimus Dorsi/Implant Breast Reconstruction Dallas - Tissue-Flap Procedure Plano
One-Step Latissimus Dorsi/Implant Breast Reconstruction
This is another tissue-flap procedure performed immediately after a mastectomy by Doctor Meade if you are a good candidate. It is not a common combination of operations performed. An oval section of tissue – made up of skin, fat, and the latissimus dorsi muscle from the upper back – is detached and slid around to the breast area through a tunnel under the skin. Blood vessels remain attached whenever possible.
The tissue is shaped into a natural-looking breast and sewn into place. The nipple and areola are then reconstructed (most of the time) once the implant is in place and all is well during your surgery. The entire procedure usually takes three hours to complete each side.
Dallas Plastic Surgeon Dr. Meade Specializes in the One-Step Latissimus Dorsi/Implant Breast Reconstruction Technique
In general, this procedure is recommended only for a woman with small- to medium-size breasts, because there is little body fat in the upper back. An implant (inserted during the same operation) is usually necessary to create a breast of moderate size. On occasion, Doctor Meade will need to place an expander instead of an implant if you have requested a certain size to go to or if the implant exerts too much pressure on the mastectomy skin, it’s a rescue option to make sure all goes well. This will require you to undergo a second day surgery where there will be a touch up and then the implant is placed.
An advantage of the procedure is the relative ease with which I can harvest the flap of tissue and it can be slipped around to the front, shaped, and sewn into place. Removal of the latissimus dorsi does result in some unevenness in the appearance of the back if you are very thin. However, back function and strength usually are not affected.
Click here to view photos of Breast Reconstruction procedures.
