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LAP Flap Breast Reconstruction LAP Flap Breast Reconstruction in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Chandler

What is LAP Flap Breast Reconstruction?

LAP (Lumbar Artery Perforator) flap breast reconstruction is an advanced surgical technique offered at Southwest Breast & Aesthetics.

This procedure uses tissue from the lower back and love handle area to reconstruct the breast, making it an excellent option for patients who do not have sufficient abdominal tissue or have already utilized abdominal fat in previous surgeries. During your private consultation, our compassionate plastic and reconstructive surgeons will determine if you are a suitable candidate for LAP Flap surgery, ensuring a personalized approach to meet your body type and aesthetic goals.

LAP Flap vs Other Breast Reconstruction Techniques

LAP Flap surgery stands out from other reconstruction techniques, such as the DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) flap, by utilizing tissue from the lower back instead of the abdomen.

Unlike implant-based reconstruction, LAP Flap offers a natural look and feel, avoiding common implant-related complications such as rupture, rippling, and capsular contracture. Additionally, LAP Flap reconstruction may be preferable for patients who have undergone abdominal surgeries or lack sufficient abdominal tissue.

LAP Flap Breast Reconstruction Feature Image

LAP Flap Benefits

LAP Flap breast reconstruction offers several advantages that can significantly improve a patient's quality of life. Using autologous tissue (tissue from your own body) ensures a more natural look and feel than synthetic implants. Here are the key benefits:

  • Natural Appearance and Feel: Using your tissue provides a more natural appearance and sensation, which is especially important for those undergoing reconstruction of one breast.
  • No Implant-Related Complications: This procedure avoids complications such as implant rupture, rippling, and capsular contracture, which are common with synthetic implants.
  • Long-Lasting Results: Autologous tissue generally provides more durable and long-lasting results than implants.
  • Improved Body Contour: Harvesting tissue from the lower back and love handles can enhance the contour of the waist and upper buttock area, offering an additional aesthetic benefit.
  • Symmetry: For patients with reconstruction on one breast, the natural tissue helps achieve better symmetry with the other breast.

Benefits by Body Area:

  • Breast Area:
    • Natural look and feel.
    • Reduced risk of long-term complications.
    • Improved aesthetic outcomes, especially in unilateral reconstructions.
  • Donor Site (Lower Back and Love Handles):
    • Improved waist and upper buttock contour as with cosmetic lower body lift.
    • Potentially less visible scarring compared to abdominal donor sites.

Concurrent Recovery Benefits:

  • Holistic Healing: Since the procedure uses your tissue, the body will likely integrate and heal more harmoniously.
  • Reduced Need for Future Surgeries: With fewer complications and more stable results, patients typically face fewer revision surgeries than those with implants.

The Disadvantages of LAP Flap

While LAP Flap breast reconstruction offers many benefits, there are also some disadvantages to consider:

  • Longer Surgical Time: The procedure is more time-consuming than implant-based reconstruction, often taking several hours due to the complexity of harvesting and transferring tissue.
  • Multiple Incision Points: The surgery involves removing tissue from the lower back and love handles, resulting in multiple incisions and potentially more scarring. This can be a cosmetic concern for some patients.
  • Extended Recovery Period: Recovery can be longer and more involved than simpler reconstruction methods, requiring more downtime and a more intensive healing process.
  • Risk of Complications: As with any surgery, there are risks of complications such as infection, blood clots, or tissue necrosis. Additional surgeries may be required to correct the issue if the flap fails.
  • Technical Complexity: The procedure is technically demanding and requires a highly skilled surgeon with specialized training in microsurgery to ensure success and minimize complications.
  • Donor Site Morbidity: Harvesting tissue from the lower back and love handles can lead to discomfort, potential weakness, or changes in the contour of the donor site.
  • Scarring: While surgeons strive to minimize scarring, patients will have scars at both the donor site and the breast reconstruction site. The visibility and extent of scarring can vary.

Despite these disadvantages, the skilled surgeons at Southwest Breast & Aesthetics are dedicated to achieving the best possible outcomes for their patients. They use advanced techniques to limit scarring and enhance aesthetic and functional results. During your consultation, they will thoroughly discuss all potential risks and benefits to help you make an informed decision.

LAP Flap Candidates

LAP Flap breast reconstruction is ideal for women who lack sufficient abdominal tissue, have had previous abdominal surgeries, or prefer natural tissue reconstruction over synthetic implants. This technique is particularly beneficial for those seeking a natural look and feel in their reconstructed breast and for patients desiring improved contour in their waist and upper buttock area through the tissue harvest process. During a comprehensive consultation at Southwest Breast & Aesthetics, our skilled surgeons will evaluate your medical history, aesthetic goals, and overall health to determine if you are a suitable candidate for this procedure.

However, certain factors may disqualify a patient from undergoing LAP Flap surgery. Significant health issues, such as uncontrolled diabetes or severe heart disease, can increase surgical risks and may deem the procedure unsafe. Additionally, active smokers may face higher risks during surgery. Inadequate donor tissue in the lower back and love handle areas, or extensive previous surgeries in these regions, can also limit eligibility. Our surgeons at Southwest Breast & Aesthetics will thoroughly assess these factors to ensure that each patient receives the most suitable and effective treatment plan tailored to their unique needs.

LAP Flap Breast Reconstruction Feature Image

Consultation and Preparation

During the consultation at Southwest Breast & Aesthetics, patients can expect a thorough evaluation by our experienced surgeons, who will review their medical history, discuss their aesthetic goals, and assess their overall health to determine suitability for LAP Flap breast reconstruction.

The consultation will include a detailed explanation of the procedure, potential risks, benefits, and what to expect during recovery. Patients may need to undergo pre-surgical evaluations, such as blood tests and imaging studies, to prepare for the treatment. It is also crucial for patients to stop smoking and adjust certain medications as advised by the surgeon to minimize surgical risks and promote optimal healing. Following these preparation guidelines will help ensure a smooth surgical process and enhance the overall success of the reconstruction.

Procedure

The LAP Flap breast reconstruction procedure begins with the administration of general anesthesia to ensure the patient is comfortable and pain-free throughout the surgery.

Once the patient is anesthetized, the surgeon will carefully harvest tissue from the lower back and love handle area. This involves making precise incisions to remove the necessary skin, fat, and blood vessels. The harvested tissue is then meticulously shaped and prepared for transfer to the chest. Using advanced microsurgical techniques, the surgeon connects the blood vessels of the transferred tissue to those in the chest to establish a healthy blood supply. The tissue is then sculpted to form a new breast mound. The donor site and chest incisions are carefully closed to minimize scarring. The entire procedure typically lasts several hours, depending on the complexity and individual patient factors. Post-surgery, the patient will be monitored closely to ensure proper healing and blood flow to the reconstructed breast.

Results, Recovery, and Aftercare

Phoenix LAP Flap breast reconstruction patients can expect to see initial results immediately after the surgery. However, the final appearance will become more evident as swelling and bruising subside over several weeks to months. Post-treatment life involves a significant recovery period, with most patients advised to take several weeks off from work and avoid strenuous activities to facilitate proper healing. During the first few weeks, patients should focus on resting and following their surgeon's instructions carefully. This includes managing pain with prescribed medications, keeping the surgical sites clean, and wearing compression garments as directed to minimize swelling and support the newly reconstructed breast and donor site.

To maintain results, patients should avoid activities that could strain the incisions, such as heavy lifting or vigorous exercise, for at least four to six weeks. Incision care is crucial; keeping the area clean and dry and applying any recommended ointments can help prevent infection and promote better healing. Scar prevention measures, such as silicone sheets or gels and avoiding direct sun exposure to scars, can improve their appearance over time. Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor progress and promptly address concerns. Long-term maintenance involves a healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and regular exercise once fully healed, to maintain overall health and the reconstruction results.

Why choose Southwest Breast & Aesthetics?

Southwest Breast & Aesthetics stands out for its dedication to providing exceptional breast reconstruction services, including the specialized LAP Flap procedure.

Our team comprises highly skilled and compassionate surgeons with extensive experience in microsurgical techniques, ensuring the highest quality of care and optimal outcomes for our patients. We are one of the few centers in the country offering advanced LAP Flap reconstruction, highlighting our commitment to utilizing cutting-edge technology and innovative procedures. Our facility has earned numerous accolades and positive media attention for its excellence in patient care and surgical expertise. We have been recognized for our patient-centered approach, ensuring each individual receives personalized treatment tailored to their unique needs and goals. Additionally, our surgeons are frequently invited to speak at national conferences and have published extensively in peer-reviewed medical journals, further establishing our reputation as leaders in breast reconstruction. Choosing Southwest Breast & Aesthetics means entrusting your care to a dedicated team committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcomes with compassion and professionalism.

Dr. Matatov, Dr. Zakhary, and Dr. Mino Phoenix Breast Surgeons

Schedule Your LAP Flap Consultation at Southwest Breast & Aesthetics Today

Take the first step towards restoring your confidence and achieving a natural look with LAP Flap breast reconstruction. Schedule your personalized consultation at Southwest Breast & Aesthetics today to discuss your options and determine if LAP Flap surgery suits you. Our expert surgeons are here to guide you through every step of the process, providing compassionate care and exceptional results.

LAP Flap Breast Reconstruction Frequently Asked Questions

LAP Flap breast reconstruction is a specialized procedure offered by select centers, including Southwest Breast & Aesthetics, which is known for its advanced techniques.

Patients may experience some discomfort post-surgery, but the pain is managed effectively with prescribed medications and typically subsides during the recovery period.

Yes, LAP Flap breast reconstruction can be performed on radiated skin, but suitability will be assessed during the consultation.

The cost varies based on individual factors. Contact Southwest Breast & Aesthetics for a personalized quote.

Many insurance plans cover breast reconstruction, including LAP Flap procedures. Our team can assist with insurance verification and pre-authorization.

Your journey to better begins with a consultation at Southwest Breast and Aesthetics. Our plastic surgeons set the standards for plastic surgery through their innovative procedures and meticulous attention to detail. Discover a better experience by booking your consultation at Southwest Breast and Aesthetics today.