Breast Reconstruction Using Back Tissue

Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center offers the latest techniques in breast reconstruction, including the use of back tissue. With many different options for breast reconstruction, it’s important to have a resource you can trust. Our caring team of experts is here to answer any questions you may have as you explore breast reconstruction surgery.

What Is Breast Reconstruction Using Back Tissue?

Breast reconstruction may use back tissue from your latissimus dorsi muscle, which is located just below your shoulder and behind your armpit. In a latissimus dorsi (LD) flap, an oval patch of skin, fat, muscle and blood vessels is removed from your upper back to rebuild the breast.

The tissue from your back is moved to your chest with the arteries and veins still attached. However, most women do not have enough fatty tissue on their backs, so an implant or tissue expander is often used. The process to use a tissue expander can take several months.

The LD flap leaves a scar on your back. Patients generally have favorable results, with no major long-term problems. On average, women recovering from an LD flap stay in the hospital for two to three days with average recovery of three to four weeks to return to normal activity.

Advantages of Reconstruction with Back Flap

• Decreased surgery and recovery time
• Good coverage over the implant
• One-time surgery, if the implant placed immediately
• Good option for thin patients
• Good for patients who have had radiation therapy
• 供体组织接近乳房

Disadvantages of Reconstruction with Back Flap

• Potential loss of strength or function in back and chest
• May need an implant along with a latissimus dorsi flap
• 一些女性说他们的背阔肌reconstructed breast feels "tighter"

Risks and Side Effects of Reconstruction with Back Flap

It’s important to follow instructions from your doctor before, during and after your procedure. This will lower your risk of complications. Tell your doctor immediately if you think something is wrong.

Potential side effects of an LD flap:

• Pain and nausea:感到疼痛的手术后疼痛或来自麻醉。您的医生可以要求您治疗这些条件的药物。
• Tissue breakdown:在罕见的情况下，从背部移动到乳房区域的组织将不会得到足够的循环，部分组织可能会死亡。
• Lumps:If blood supply is cut off to the fat used to rebuild your breast, it may be replaced by firm scar tissue that feels like a lump.
• 肌肉无力：You may have partial loss of strength or function that makes it hard to lift things and twist.
• Implant risks:If you've had an implant along with latissimus dorsi reconstruction, there are also risks unique toimplant reconstruction.

If you have questions about what to expect from breast reconstruction surgery or any other breast cancer concerns, Banner MD Anderson’s experienced team of physicians is here to help.