Breast Reconstruction with Latissimus Dorsi Flap

This procedure is one of many different types of breast reconstruction available. They are broadly divided into implant based or autologous (using the patient’s own tissue) and include Breast Reconstruction with Latissimus Dorsi Flap or Breast Reconstruction with an Implant or Tissue Expander.

Breast Reconstruction with Latissimus Dorsi Flap uses the latissimus dorsi (LD), the muscle beneath the shoulder blade that enables the twisting motion. The skin, fat and muscle (flap) is brought around to the chest to create a new breast. Sometimes the LD flap can be used alone, but more commonly, where there is not enough of your body’s own tissue to match your other breast, it is combined with a breast implant to give enough size to the reconstructed breast.

How long is the recovery time?

In general, flap breast reconstruction surgery is more extensive than is mastectomy or implant reconstruction so will require a longer recovery period and may require a longer hospital stay.

You will be able to resume light activities 2 – 4 weeks after your surgery but you will not be able to drive for 4-6 weeks and you would usually be advised to take at least 6 weeks off work and avoid heavy lifting during this time.

It is important to continue with any exercises advised to help your recovery.

What results can patients expect?

Breast reconstruction aims to restore the shape and volume of the breast. This helps restore confidence and is an integral part of the road to recovery.

This procedure offers good results with few complications although, some women experience muscle weakness in the back, shoulder or arm after this surgery. The procedure leaves a scar on the mid-back region below the shoulder blade. Often this can be hidden along the bra line.

You can’t usually use your private medical insurance for cosmetic surgery but you can pay directly for your Breast Reconstruction with Latissimus Dorsi Flap treatment. We offer competitive, fixed price packages. If you are able to use your health insurance, please contact your insurer first for approval and let them know you’d like to be treated at One Hatfield Hospital.

Why One Hatfield

• Modern purpose-built hospital opened in December 2017
• Fast access to diagnostics including MRI, X-ray and Ultrasound
• Private, spacious, en-suite rooms
• Specialist physiotherapy and nursing teams
• Little or no waiting time
• ‘Ultra clean air’ theatres
• Freshly prepared food
• Calm, dignified experience

Contact us and find out more

If you are based in and around Hertfordshire, St Albans, Stevenage, Watford, North London, Welwyn or Bedfordshire and would like to visit the One Hatfield Hospital please click here.