Breast Reconstruction

The North Coast Breast Centre can offer women the choice of breast reconstruction at the same time as mastectomy or some time later as appropriate.

Several techniques are now available through the Breast Centre, including TRAM flap reconstruction, Latissimus Dorsi Flap reconstruction and implant reconstruction.

These three main techniques each have their own set of advantages and disadvantages, but each has its place. Usually one stands out as being particularly appropriate for an individual woman requesting reconstruction.

Main TRAM Flap Advantages

No foreign body utilised.

Excellent texture, shape and feel to new breast.

Uses excess abdominal tissue with resultant abdominoplasty incorporated with procedure.

Main Latissimus Dorsi Advantages

Most trouble free and resilient flap used to create new breast.

Less discomfort following procedure and earlier return to activities then TRAM.

Shorter inpatient stay.

Main Implant Advantages

Shortest operative time and inpatient stay of three techniques.

Earliest return to usual activities of all three techniques.

Can use expandable prosthesis when flaps can not be used.

Main TRAM Flap Disadvantages

Lengthy operative procedure required.

Considerable postoperative discomfort for first few weeks.

Usually six weeks before able to resume most activities again.

Main Latissimus Dorsi Disadvantages

Nearly always require use of implant to provide appropriate volume.

Limits initial shoulder use and can affect long term activity.

Risk of implant infection and capsular contracture.

Main Implant Disadvantages

Expense of implants

Short and longer term complications associated with implants

(infection, capsular contracture, leak, wound breakdown).

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