Breast Reconstruction Oncology

Overview

Breast reconstruction refers to a range of surgeries to restore the breast tissue, such as the size and appearance of the breasts, after significant tissue loss due to the effects of breast cancer. This complex process is carried out by skilled and experienced healthcare professionals who are dedicated to providing the best care and outcomes for their patients.

Implant Reconstruction

During breast implant reconstruction, reconstructive surgeons utilise silicone or saline implants to recreate the appearance of the breasts. In some instances, both natural tissue and implants are used to rebuild the breasts.

TRAM Flap (Abdominal Tissue)

Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous (TRAM) flap (abdominal wall flap surgery) is a flap procedure named after the muscle in the lower abdomen, the area between the pubic bone and waist. The flap consists of the fat, skin and a portion of the entire underlying rectus abdominis to reconstruct the breast.

There are three forms of TRAM flap:

• Pedicle TRAM flap: This is referred to as a surgical ‘tunnelling’ method.
• Free TRAM flap: Skin, fat, and blood vessels are used to recreate the breasts, and only the lower region of the abdominal muscle is used.
• Muscle-sparing TRAM flap: This type of flap procedure retains the underlying rectus abdominis muscle to preserve its function and lower the risk of related complications.

DIEP Flap (Abdominal Tissue, No Muscle)

A DIEP flap procedure uses the same skin and fat taken during a TRAM flap but leaves the muscle in place and uses the blood vessels that nourish the skin and fat. This surgical approach preserves the strength of the abdominal wall.

LAT Flap (Back Tissue)

Latissimus dorsi flap is a flexible reconstructive procedure used for various reconstructive procedures on the head, neck, torso and breast. The tissue from the latissimus dorsi muscle in the back is tunnelled beneath the skin to recreate a new breast mould.

Nipple Reconstruction

Reconstruction of the nipple and the areola forms the last phase of breast reconstruction. This last stage of breast reconstruction is performed to ensure the new breast mould appears more like the original breast tissue. Reconstruction of the nipple can be performed through tissue rebuilding surgery or a process known as ‘tattooing.’ A skilled professional and plastic and reconstructive surgeon can match shades best suited to the pigment of the nipple and make the flattened tattoo appear three-dimensional.