Pedicled Latissimus Flap procedure

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Good morning.

I am due to have further reconstruction surgery on 4 July.  Last year I opted to have bilateral mastectomy and DIEP reconstruction immediately.  I also had a genetic test (due to extensive family history of breast cancer.  I tested positive for the BRCA1 gene).   Unfortunately the reconstruction of both breasts failed having contracted necrosis and my body rejecting the implants.   Last December I had to undergo a fourth operation which involved removing my left breast.   Due to this removal because of Necrosis yet again, my surgeon said he would be prepared to carry out a Pedicled Latissimus Flap reconstruction of my left breast and would reduce my right breast and remove the semi breast implant and perform liposuction and then inject my own "fat" from under my shoulder/back to reconstruct this breast in 6 months time.   Hence a date now of 4th July (my birthday!).

I am wondering if anyone on this forum has experienced this type of reconstruction.   Although I have watched the procedure on a cancer site, it is still somewhat daunting.

I look forward to any experience and advice etc.

Thank you.

Kaz59

  • Hi, I just noticed you've not had any replies yet, as the site is quite busy. I don't have the experience you are looking for, but my response will bump your post back to the top and hopefully someone with the right experience will be along soon.  Or you can have a chat with the lovely folks at Macmillan about your questions in 0800 808 0000. Best wishes 

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  • Dear Irishgirl16

    Thank you very much for replying to me even though, as I believe maybe that you personally have not gone through this procedure.    I am now getting a little apprehensive not about the operations but more the fact, hope my own body does not reject these operations.   I appreciate that I am not out of the woods yet but I believe I am a fighter.   Anyway thank you for your advice.

    I wish you every success through your own journey.

    Kaz1959

  • Hi Kaz1959, I don't have any experience/information about that kind of procedure but I will have mastectomy with diep reconstruction on 10/07 and I am very anxious. I wish you the very best of luck with your surgery! Big hug, xx 

  • Hello Lana65

    Thank you for replying.   I was just unlucky 1:10, according to my surgeon in that the reconstruction of both breasts did not take.   As regards the DIEP, am very pleased with that...scar from hip to hip has healed beautifully...wonderful free  "tummy tuck".   All through my Chemo, I was so positive (only could have 7 cycles not the planned 11)...my silly body rejected the Chemo too.   One of the Chemo infusions caused heart problems, but that is being monitored regularly with tablets.

    I too wish you every success.   Please listen to your surgeon and breast care nurses about what you can and cannot do.   I wore a soft bra which opened in the front and support knickers for the tummy.   A v-shaped pillow was a great support for your side.   As I had a bilateral mastectomy I had 2 such pillows and a wedge pillow to assist sleeping at night.  Easier to sit up and be supported.   You cannot lie down comfortably and lying on your side and front is a "no no" .   

    Good luck for the 10th July.   I'll be thinking of you.    Please keep me/us informed as to your progress.

    Kindest and warmest regards

    Kaz1959

  • Thank you so much for your reply, Kaz1959! I still cannot process why bad things happen to good people... I am not angry about what happened to me - I am 58 and I have a wonderful family with 2 grown up children. To me the worst of it all is that they have to go through this ordeal too. Not fair, but it is what it is. I would love to stay in touch and again the best of luck to you! xx