Latissimus Dorsi (LD) Flap Breast Reconstruction

LD (Latissimus Dorsi) flap breast reconstruction at Snyder Plastic Surgery in Austin is a procedure that uses muscle, fat, and skin from your back to recreate a breast after mastectomy. In some cases, this can be done as a muscle-sparing flap moving only skin, fat, and the blood supply. This is called a TAP (Thoricodorsal Artery Perforator) Flap. During the procedure, Dr. Snyder transfers tissue from the latissimus dorsi muscle (a broad, flat muscle covering the middle and lower back) to the chest area. The tissue remains attached to its original blood supply and is tunneled under the skin to the mastectomy site. This technique is often combined with a breast implant to achieve the desired volume and shape. LD flap reconstruction is an excellent option for Austin patients who may not be candidates for DIEP flap reconstruction or prefer this approach.

Ideal candidates for LD flap reconstruction at our Austin center include women who have insufficient abdominal tissue for DIEP flap reconstruction, have previously undergone abdominal surgeries that prevent DIEP flap or have had radiation therapy to the chest. This procedure is also an excellent option for women who have enough tissue to move from their back to make a breast of adequate size without a breast implant. Dr. Snyder carefully evaluates each patient's body type, health history, lifestyle, and reconstruction goals to determine if LD flap reconstruction is the most appropriate approach.

Recovery after LD flap reconstruction at Snyder Plastic Surgery typically involves a 1-night hospital stay. Patients experience restricted arm movement on the donor side for several weeks to allow proper healing. Most Austin patients can return to light activities within 2-3 weeks and resume normal activities within 4-6 weeks. During recovery, you may experience tightness in your back and chest as your body adjusts to the repositioned muscle. Our comprehensive post-operative care program includes specialized physical therapy to help restore the full range of motion and strength. Complete healing and final results develop over 3-6 months as tissues settle and swelling subsides.

LD flap reconstruction at Snyder Plastic Surgery offers several unique advantages compared to other reconstruction methods available in Austin. Since it uses your own tissue, it provides a more natural appearance and feel than implant-only reconstruction. The LD flap is particularly beneficial for patients who have had radiation therapy, as it brings healthy, non-irradiated tissue to the chest area. While the DIEP flap generally provides more volume without implants, the LD flap procedure typically has a shorter operation time and may be less complex. Dr. Snyder often recommends this approach for patients seeking a balance between natural results and a less extensive surgical procedure.

LD flap reconstruction at our Austin center does result in scarring both on the breast and on the back where the tissue is harvested. The back scar typically runs horizontally and can be positioned to be concealed by a bra or swimsuit. The breast scars vary depending on your mastectomy incision pattern. Dr. Snyder uses advanced surgical techniques to minimize scarring, and most scars fade significantly over time. During your consultation, we'll discuss scar placement and management strategies including our post-operative scar care protocol that helps optimize healing and minimize visible scarring. Many Austin patients find that the natural-looking breast reconstruction results outweigh concerns about scarring.