There are two main approaches to breast reconstruction – implant reconstruction and tissue flap reconstruction. Typically, these techniques are combined, as the first one is perfect for adding volume and the second one is used to create the visible surface. Tissue flap is basically an autotransplantation procedure, where a part of the patient’s own tissues (including vasculature and other structural elements) are taken from one site of the body and placed elsewhere. The most common variants of such surgery in the context of breast reconstruction are the latissimus dorsi (LD) and transverse rectus abdominis muscle (TRAM) flap methods, in which tissues from back or abdomen are used to reconstruct breast.
Both LD and TRAM flap techniques are procedures that involve remodeling and transplantation of tissues of back or abdomen respectively in order to reconstruct a breast or build it anew. These techniques used to involve taking some parts of muscles from the donor regions, but thanks to evolution of surgical methods and application of operational microscopy this is no longer the case in advanced clinical conditions, like in our cosmetic surgery facility. Such approach allows to carefully remove only skin and fat from the donor region and transplant it successfully, as vasculatuer of the transplant is linked to the target area. In any case, this is a fairly complex and lengthy procedure, that requires careful preparation. To do so, a preliminary appointment with the performing surgeon is a must, in order to plan the scope of procedure properly, design the surgery process to fit the patient’s needs and consider individual’s medical history and laboratory test resulsts to exclude any contraindications. Surely, success of such intervention relies heavily on proper post-operative care and compliance with rehabilitation recommendations.
Often breast reconstruction involves application of sillicone implants or patient’s own fat to add the necessary volume.
Length and character of rehabilitation vary significantly on scale of intervention and individual features of the patient. In general, recovery from flap reconstruction is quite long. Patient stays under medical supervision for 10-12 days after surgery, and stitches are removed at two weeks point after surgery. This period of time is painful and patient’s movement is strictly limited. Physical excercise is prohibited for 6 months after surgery, except for a set of rehabilitative trainings, which are taught and supervised by medical experts. Also, for 6 months after surgery special medical underclothing must be worn.
