When Is the Latissimus Dorsi Flap Breast Reconstruction Used?

The latissimus dorsi flap is often recommended for women who have undergone radiation therapy, as radiation can damage chest wall tissue and compromise healing. By transferring healthy, well-vascularized tissue from the back, this procedure helps restore softness, improve contour, and enhance surgical outcomes. It is also frequently used to:

  • Provide additional coverage and protection for a breast implant
  • Improve contour in cases of partial breast defects
  • Address asymmetry or congenital breast differences

In unilateral reconstruction, some patients may elect to have a breast lift or reduction on the opposite side to optimize final symmetry.

Background media

Latissimus Dorsi Flap Breast Reconstruction

Good Candidates

The latissimus dorsi flap may be an appropriate option if you:

  • Do not have sufficient abdominal tissue for autologous reconstruction
  • Require healthy tissue to replace radiation-damaged skin
  • Need added coverage over an implant
  • Prefer an autologous-based option but are not a candidate for longer microsurgical procedures

Candidacy is determined during a comprehensive consultation that evaluates your anatomy, cancer treatment history, and reconstructive goals.

Banner media

Testimonials Words From Our Patients

N.G.

Had a breast reduction done by Dr Adrian Lee. Amazing surgeon - very kind, explains things well and paid close attention to detail. The staff in the office are very kind too. I am ...

Had a breast reduction done by Dr Adrian Lee. Amazing surgeon - very kind, explains things well and paid close attention to detail. The staff in the office are very kind too. I am very impressed with how the healing has gone - back pain disappeared and with how thorough he is as a surgeon I believe that’s what helped the recovery process. Would recommend him and the office to anyone. :)

R.M.

I have had two surgeries at the Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre. I have only had interaction with Laurie in reception and Dr. Prince. Dr. Prince is second to none. She takes t...

I have had two surgeries at the Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre. I have only had interaction with Laurie in reception and Dr. Prince. Dr. Prince is second to none. She takes the time to explain everything in detail and answer any and all questions. Her expertise and her skills are truly exceptional. She is very easy to talk to and truly a master of her profession. I would not hesitate to recommend her services to anyone who wants the best. Laurie was also amazing. She is very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. Dr. Prince and Laurie are both a real credit to the Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre.

S.W.

Dr. Oxley has done two procedures removing cancer for me. The first visit I had with him was in the surgery suite. He was professional, punctual and had just the right amount of hu...

Dr. Oxley has done two procedures removing cancer for me. The first visit I had with him was in the surgery suite. He was professional, punctual and had just the right amount of humour for what was a stressful time for me. The follow up visit was on time and I was booked for a second surgery. The second surgery was again, punctual and professional with a touch of humour. I am in the process of booking a follow up to my latest surgery now. I would not hesitate to use Dr. Oxley again.

K.G.

Dr. Imran Ratanshi performed my breast reduction surgery a month ago and I feel amazing. The recovery time was unbelievable and his staff has continually checked up on me to make s...

Dr. Imran Ratanshi performed my breast reduction surgery a month ago and I feel amazing. The recovery time was unbelievable and his staff has continually checked up on me to make sure I am still doing well. I would recommend him to anyone who is considering this surgery. He is honest and very helpful, provided all of the information I needed to make decision regarding my surgery. I feel like it's one of the best decisions I have ever made for my confidence. He did an incredible job, I trust him 100% and would not hesitate to put myself into his care again. Highly, highly recommend Dr. Ratanshi and his team!

R.M.

My highest recommendation for an outstanding doctor and person: Dr. Rizwan Mian. Dr. Mian has surgically removed cancer from my skin a number of times in recent years - all basal-c...

My highest recommendation for an outstanding doctor and person: Dr. Rizwan Mian. Dr. Mian has surgically removed cancer from my skin a number of times in recent years - all basal-cell carcinoma. He has always been the ultimate professional but with a kind and gentle manner that calms any anxiety a patient might be feeling. And when my most recently removed skin tested positive for melanoma I was anxious indeed! This time it was a spot on my cheek that would require a large amount of tissue removal, a biopsy of the closest lymph node, and skin grafting, all done under general anesthesia. But I need not have worried. Dr. Mian was reassuring and amazingly skillful, the surgery was successful, the melanoma contained, and the complicated skin graft has healed so well that the incision on my face is already starting to disappear. Thank you, Dr. Mian! 

J.H.

Can’t recommend Dr Genoway enough! I was looking for a reconstructive surgeon for 5 years, had several consultations with other doctors. As soon as I met Dr Genoway, I knew I...

Can’t recommend Dr Genoway enough! I was looking for a reconstructive surgeon for 5 years, had several consultations with other doctors. As soon as I met Dr Genoway, I knew I found my doctor. She is knowledgeable, experienced, kind and caring. Dr Genoway listened to all of my concerns, gave me honest medical opinion, including to comeback in a few years as I am too young for a particular procedures. I felt comfortable and not rushed or pressured. Most importantly I felt safe and in good hands. Ended up having my postpartum reconstruction and 2 other procedures (long time dream) in one go. Recovery was fast considering the extent of the procedures. I didn’t need the prescribed pain medication at all. She just has this “light hand”. Most importantly, the results are better than expected! Natural looking, better version of me, but still me. I feel more confident and much happier in my own skin.

M.Y.

I had my breast surgery in Plastic Surgery Group. Well organized safe and the best care during my surgery. Thank you guys and wish you all the best. 

G.M.

I was a novice to surgery and the staff here were amazing - very friendly and helpful. Dr. Lee was very calm and knowledgeable and answered my questions. Breast reduction surgery w...

I was a novice to surgery and the staff here were amazing - very friendly and helpful. Dr. Lee was very calm and knowledgeable and answered my questions. Breast reduction surgery was scary to me but I have zero regrets. Barely any pain or discomfort after surgery and any back pain I had before is now gone. I walk straighter and clothes fit better. My self esteem has improved. Would recommend this office and the actual surgery to anyone considering it. It’s a game changer.

T.W.

Highly recommend Dr. Prince. Had a breast reduction Oct.20....best decision Ive ever made. Dr. Prince was so professional and helpful. Great bedside manner. If you're on the fence ...

Highly recommend Dr. Prince. Had a breast reduction Oct.20....best decision Ive ever made. Dr. Prince was so professional and helpful. Great bedside manner. If you're on the fence of having this operation, go for it!! The pain level was a 1, if that. I kept waiting for the shoe to drop and the pain to hit me, never happened. Two week post op...ready to play tennis, but will wait another week. Thank you Dr.Prince and Lori!

J.P.

Dr.Oxley has been patient and very kind throughout my procedure making my experience less stressful and much more manageable. Also his office staff are a pleasure to work with. Alw...

Dr.Oxley has been patient and very kind throughout my procedure making my experience less stressful and much more manageable. Also his office staff are a pleasure to work with. Always greeting you as you come in and happy to answer any questions and concerns over the phone or via email. I never once felt alone during this process. Overall I recommend this capable and compassionate team. You'll be in good hands.

J.H.

I am a breast cancer survivor. After my reconstruction surgery failed I was referred to Dr Imran Ratanshi. His kind demeanor and great sense of humor put me at ease immediately. I ...

I am a breast cancer survivor. After my reconstruction surgery failed I was referred to Dr Imran Ratanshi. His kind demeanor and great sense of humor put me at ease immediately. I was in a very dark place emotionally due to the appearance of my body. Dr. Ratanshi preformed a deep inferior epigastric perforator surgery and it was a complete success. I believe Dr Ratanshi saved my life! A very skilled surgeon and a wonderful man.

J.C.

Absolutely amazing Suman is amazing at her job a big thank you. Dr R Mian so professional and made me feel so comfortable. A true artist in his field. I had a breast reduction Best...

Absolutely amazing Suman is amazing at her job a big thank you. Dr R Mian so professional and made me feel so comfortable. A true artist in his field. I had a breast reduction Best think I ever did for my health. Thank you Suman worth your weight in gold. Dr Mian Life changing can't not begin to Thank you. Absolutely best experience

C.A.

I had an exceptional experience with Dr. Genoway and their team. From the initial consultation to the surgery day, I felt an unwavering sense of compassion and support. The effort ...

I had an exceptional experience with Dr. Genoway and their team. From the initial consultation to the surgery day, I felt an unwavering sense of compassion and support. The effort on their end to look after my needs put me at ease. The seamless communication and follow-up care post-surgery further solidified my trust in their expertise. I was truly impressed by the pride they take in their work, and I'm grateful for the wonderful care I received. 

Reviews media

Advantages

Latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction can offer the following benefits:

  • Introduces healthy, well-vascularized tissue to the chest
  • Improves healing in previously radiated areas
  • Provides soft tissue coverage and protection for implants
  • Versatile option for both total and partial breast reconstruction

Disadvantages

It’s important to note that this procedure can also have several disadvantages:

  • Limited volume from the donor site may require an implant for symmetry
  • Permanent donor-site scar on the back
  • Possible contour asymmetry of the back
  • Potential mild weakness in shoulder function (particularly for activities involving pulling or climbing)
Background media
The PSG logo

Preparing for Surgery

Proper preparation helps reduce surgical risks and support optimal healing.

If you smoke, you should stop prior to surgery, as smoking significantly increases complications related to wound healing and flap survival. Blood thinners, anti-inflammatory medications (except Tylenol), and certain supplements should be discontinued for two weeks before surgery. Herbal products such as ginkgo biloba, St. John’s Wort, fish oil, flaxseed oil, and high-dose vitamin E may increase bleeding risk and should also be stopped as directed by your surgeon.

You will receive individualized preoperative instructions based on your medical history and treatment plan.

Background media

Schedule A Consultation

Contact Us
Contact us media

Possible Complications

As with any surgical procedure, risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, delayed wound healing, anesthetic complications, or fluid collection (seroma).

Specific risks related to latissimus flap reconstruction may include:

  • Partial flap loss
  • Fat necrosis (firm areas within the reconstructed breast)
  • Skin healing issues following mastectomy
  • Shoulder stiffness or weakness
  • Asymmetry
  • Need for revision surgery

Your surgeon will review these risks in detail during consultation and explain strategies used to minimize complications.

Banner media

Recovery from Latissimus Dorsi Flap Reconstruction Surgery

Following surgery, it is common to experience soreness in both the chest and back for several weeks. Pain medication and antibiotics are typically prescribed to manage discomfort and reduce infection risk.

Surgical drains are placed in the chest and back and are usually removed within one to two weeks. Showering is generally postponed until drains are removed. Most sutures are absorbable. Recovery timelines vary depending on your overall health, whether reconstruction was immediate or delayed, and whether additional treatments such as chemotherapy or radiation are required.

Many patients return to light activities within a few weeks, though full physical recovery can take several months.

Most patients resume the majority of normal activities by six weeks. Complete healing, scar maturation, and final breast contour may take six to twelve months.

If desired, nipple reconstruction and areola tattooing are typically performed three to six months after the initial surgery.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you are considering latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction in Surrey, BC, contact PSG to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons. We will help determine whether this technique is appropriate for your reconstructive goals and overall treatment plan.

Banner media

Schedule a Consultation

Schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons and get honest guidance tailored to your aesthetic goals, right here in Surrey.

Contact Us
Contact us media
Background media
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (778) 907-8812.
Contact Us