top of page
iStock-183413707.jpg
Reconstructive Surgery.jpg
breast-2.jpg

Breast Reconstruction
with Latissimus Dorsi Flap

A Tailored Approach to Restoring your Confidence

Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction is a specialized breast reconstruction technique that uses tissue from your upper back to restore the breast. Though less commonly used than other methods, this approach is ideal for patients who have undergone previous reconstructive attempts or mastectomy with radiation and are unable to use their abdominal tissue for reconstruction. This procedure can offer a natural-looking result, often in combination with an implant for optimal size and projection.

Is Latissimus Dorsi Flap
Reconstruction Right for You?

This method is typically reserved for patients who meet specific criteria:

​

  • Previous Reconstruction Attempts Have Failed, leaving insufficient soft, supple skin for implant-only reconstruction.

  • A history of mastectomy and radiation therapy, which leaves insufficient abdominal donor tissue for reconstruction.

​​

In many cases, the tissue from the back alone does not provide enough volume to fully reconstruct a breast. In these situations, an implant may be placed underneath the latissimus flap to achieve the desired breast size and contour, ensuring natural proportions and a confident silhouette.

The Latissimus Dorsi Flap Procedure:
A Journey to Rejuvenation

The Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction is a meticulous procedure that typically takes around four hours for one breast and up to eight hours for both. The latissimus dorsi muscle, located beneath your shoulder blade, is carefully transferred along with a small ellipse of skin from your back to the breast area. The blood vessels remain intact, and the flap is moved to the chest by tunnelling under the skin to preserve the natural blood supply.

01

Lifting the latissimus dorsi muscle and attached skin tissue fromt he back.

02

Tunnelling the flap under the skin to the breast area while maintaining the blood supply.

03

Inserting an implant, if necessary, to achieve the desired breast shape and volume.

04

Securing the flap and completing the reconstruction.

Recovery After Latissimus Dorsi Flap Surgery:
Supporting Your Healing Journey

After your surgery, you will be admitted to the hospital for two days to ensure proper recovery. Drains will be placed in both the breast and back to manage fluid buildup, and they are typically removed between post-operative days 10 to 14.

Your Journey Begins Here!

Which service are you interested in learning more about?

Here is What You Can
Expect Post-Surgery:

  • Return to Regular Activities: Most patients resume non-strenuous activities after two weeks and are cleared for full exercise in about four weeks.

  • Nipple Reconstruction: Nipple reconstruction is usually performed three months following the initial surgery.

  • Complete Care: Throughout your recovery, Dr. Yau and her team will closely monitor your progress to ensure optimal results and comfort.

bottom of page