Your Varied Breast Reconstruction Options in Fairfield County, Connecticut

Advantages and Disadvantages of TRAM Flap Reconstruction

The TRAM flap offers a more natural look and feel without the use of synthetic materials. This procedure removes tissue from the abdomen to reconstruct the breast. Many women feel that flap procedures offer the most physical and emotional benefits with breasts that look and feel natural, crafted from their own tissues.

It is important to remember that the TRAM flap procedure is lengthy and requires a longer recovery period than reconstruction with implants. Because this method affects the abdomen, you may experience reduced functionality of the abdominal muscles and tissues. You must have adequate abdominal tissue and blood supply, so it is not an ideal procedure for patients with connective tissue disorders or vascular disease. This procedure will also create additional scars in the abdomen.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Latissimus Flap Reconstruction

As with the other flap methods, the latissimus flap reconstruction method creates a breast that looks and feels natural, but with minimal scarring. This approach will take tissue from the back rather than the abdomen. This approach may not be suitable for everyone, as patients must have sufficient muscle and fat in the upper back. Latissimus flap reconstruction technique can also result in reduced muscle function in the upper back.