Latissimus Dorsi Flap Breast Reconstruction in Surrey, B.C.

Name: Latissimus
Brand: Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre
Rating: 4.1 (46 reviews)

Latissimus dorsi flap reconstruction is a versatile technique used to restore breast shape following mastectomy. At PSG, our board-certified plastic surgeons use this procedure to recreate natural contour and symmetry, particularly in patients who require healthy tissue replacement after radiation therapy. This procedure involves transferring muscle, skin, and fat from the upper back to the chest to reconstruct the breast mound. It may be performed at the time of mastectomy (immediate reconstruction) or at a later stage (delayed reconstruction). Depending on the desired size and available tissue, the flap can be used alone or combined with a breast implant to achieve additional volume.

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.

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.

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 ...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 ...

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...

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 ...

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...

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 ...

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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)

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.

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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.

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.