Pedicled (Attached) Flap Reconstruction

In contrast to reconstruction with implants, autologous tissue reconstruction methods involve transplanting a flap of living skin, fat, and sometimes muscle from a different part of the body to replace breast tissue removed in the mastectomy. Once transferred to the chest, the flap can be shaped to restore breast symmetry.

Breasts made with the body’s own tissue feel and move naturally because they’re made of your own living tissue. Unlike implants, the flap technique forms full-size breasts during the initial operation. Additional surgery later refines the breast shape and creates the nipples.

Although flap reconstruction doesn’t present the problems inherent with implants, the surgery is complex and lengthy, creating an additional incision at the donor site and requiring special surgical expertise. Recovery is lengthier and can be more intense, but the overall reconstruction timeline is shorter. Serious complications are rare, but infections may occur. Portions or the entire flap may die without sufficient blood supply