Breast Implants & Latissimus Dorsi Flap

Rebuilding your breasts after a mastectomy can be done with the use of breast implants in combination with an all natural tissue flap from your upper back.

The latissimus dorsi muscle is located in your upper back just below your shoulder and behind your armpit. It’s the muscle that helps you twist your body and allows movements such as swinging a golf club or tennis racquet.

Dr. Avram will rebuild your new breasts with a tissue flap that is created with skin, fat, muscle and blood vessels from your upper back. The tissue flap will remain attached to your body, the blood vessels from your upper back and the tissue remain intact. Your newly created tissue flap is then rotated towards the chest — underneath your skin — to rebuild your breast.

In most cases, breast implants will be placed under the flap to achieve more volume, shape and projection.

Your Incisions

The most common incisions for latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction are located on your back. In some cases, incisions can be concealed by bra straps.

Specializing in Breast Surgery

Dr. Avram’s advanced training and 15+ years of experience with complex cosmetic, and reconstructive breast surgery cases has made Dr. Avram one of Canada’s most sought after breast surgeons.

With his accumulated experience and established record, Dr. Avram is often called upon by other plastic surgeons for additional training opportunities and assistance with complex breast procedures.

Anesthesia

An anesthetist will be present during your surgery to administer a general anesthetic. You will be very comfortable and asleep during your reconstructive latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction.

Length of Surgery & Recovery

Latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction in combination with breast implant surgery can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours.

Dr. Avram suggests that you take at least 6 to 8 weeks off work for recovery. You will receive specific return to work and post operative care instructions. For optimal results, be sure to follow your post operative care instructions very carefully.

Breast Cancer Awareness

Alana Somerville, a breast cancer survivor and patient of Dr. Avram’s, wrote a book called Chemosabe Cancer Warrior. This book is written to help guide women through everything you need to know about surviving breast cancer and navigating Canada’s healthcare system. Take a peek at Elizabeth Hurley’s feedback on Chemosabe Cancer Warrior.