Latissimus Dorsi Flap in Austin, TX

Name: Latissimus Dorsi Flap
Brand: Austin Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

Using excess skin, fat, and tissue from your back, a latissimus dorsi flap procedure can reconstruct your breast with impressively natural-looking results.

Restore the Volume and Shape of Your Breast With a Latissimus Dorsi Flap Procedure in Austin

If you’ve undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy or plan to in the near future, breast reconstruction will likely be a desirable next step in your breast cancer recovery process. Breast reconstruction performed by a skilled microsurgeon can help you regain your feminine figure and self-confidence by restoring the volume, shape, and overall appearance of the affected breast(s). At Austin Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, one of the advanced breast reconstruction techniques we offer is called a latissimus dorsi flap procedure.

What Is a Latissimus Dorsi Flap?

A latissimus dorsi flap or LD flap at Austin Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery is a breast reconstruction technique using an oval flap of skin, fat, and underlying muscle from your back—specifically below your shoulder and behind your armpit—to restore the volume and appearance of the affected breast(s). The main difference between this method and other flap techniques is that the blood vessels remain connected. With the LD flap surgery, the flap is rotated from your back to your chest.

Though the skin on the back is slightly different in color and texture than the skin on your chest, the latissimus dorsi flap creates an extremely natural-looking reconstructed breast. If desired, nipple reconstruction and/or nipple-areola tattooing can be scheduled two to three months after your implant is in place.

LD flap reconstruction infographic

Latissimus Dorsi Flap Before & After

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After procedure image for Latissimus Dorsi Flap

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What Is the Recovery Like After a Latissimus Dorsi Flap Procedure?

After your latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction at Austin Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, you’ll need to stay in the hospital for a few days to be monitored. After returning home, you’ll need to rest frequently, stay hydrated, and take light walks around the house periodically to keep your blood flowing. Most patients can start gradually resuming light activities after around two weeks, but strenuous physical activity should be avoided for a minimum of six weeks. During your recovery, you’ll experience swelling, soreness, and bruising in both of your surgical sites. Pain medication can be prescribed by your surgeon to help alleviate your discomfort while you recover.

Who Is a Good Candidate for a Latissimus Dorsi Flap Procedure?

Women who want to restore their affected breast(s) after undergoing a mastectomy or lumpectomy could be good candidates for a latissimus dorsi flap procedure in Austin with our team. This method of breast reconstruction is a good choice for individuals who prioritize natural-looking results and have a sufficient amount of excess back tissue. A latissimus dorsi flap is an excellent choice for patients who are not good candidates for a DIEP flap, such as those who suffer from a hypercoagulable disorder, do not have enough skin on the chest after cancer surgery, have unhealthy chest skin due to radiation, don't have enough abdominal fat, or have had previous flaps or implants that have failed and need an alternative donor site.

One of our expert reconstructive surgeons will communicate with your oncologist and breast cancer surgeon to ensure that an LD flap procedure is right for you and to create a personalized treatment plan.

Unless your natural breasts are on the small side, you may need a silicone breast implant placed under the latissimus dorsi flap in a secondary surgery. The right type of implant for you is a personal choice, but your surgeon will go through all of the pros and cons of each during your initial consultation.

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Why Choose Austin Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery for Your Latissimus Dorsi Flap Procedure in Austin?

At Austin Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, our dedicated team features several expert reconstructive surgeons as well as multiple breast cancer survivors. We understand the incredible challenges that come with a breast cancer diagnosis, which is why we go above and beyond to help women once again become the most confident and attractive versions of themselves while recovering from the disease. Our respected, award-winning surgeons have performed over 6,000 successful breast reconstructions, consistently delivering personalized treatment and natural-looking results. If you’re ready to take the next step toward feeling whole again, simply contact us today to schedule a private consultation.