The Latissimus Dorsi flap uses the muscle from the back of the shoulder blade which is brought around to the breast mound to create the new breast. As the muscle does not provide sufficient volume, an expander implant is also necessary, inserted at the same time under the latissimus dorsi. The expander is eventually replaced by a permanent implant in a second stage. The scar is either placed horizontally under the bra straps or, slightly vertically.
Why is the muscle from the back necessary?
The advantage of combining the LD flap with an implant in an immediate breast reconstruction, is to reduce the risk of complication (e.g. infection, implant extrusion, capsular contractrure) and, to achieve a more natural looking breast.
Who are candidates for this reconstruction type?
Any woman who does not want a scar an her tummy, buttocks, or thigh might chose this procedure. And this is also a popular choice for women with a larger breast size.
What are the disadvantages of this procedure?
The patient may experience weakness in the arm and back muscles and need further physical therapy. Women who are very active in sports need to know that this procedure can reduce their ability to play golf and tennis, swim or climb.
