Restoring Your Breasts with Your Own Tissue
Free flap breast reconstruction, also known as autologous reconstruction, uses the patient’s own tissue from another part of the body to form a new breast. This technique is ideal for patients with insufficient tissue on the chest wall or for those who prefer not to use breast implants. Dr. Amir Ghaznavi at AMG Plastic Surgery in Reston, Northern Virginia, specializes in free flap breast reconstruction, offering personalized care and advanced surgical techniques to help patients achieve natural-looking results.
What is Free Flap Reconstruction?
Free flap reconstruction involves using tissue from one area of the body to create a new breast. Once the tissue is extracted, it is moved to the chest, where the blood vessels are reconnected to the chest wall using a microscope. This microsurgical technique ensures that the tissue receives an adequate blood supply, promoting healing and integration with the surrounding tissue.
Advantages of Free Flap Reconstruction
Natural Look and Feel
Tissue flaps look and feel more like natural breasts compared to implants.
Adaptive to Weight Changes
Flaps can change size based on your weight, just like natural tissues.
Reduced Muscle Loss
Free flaps typically do not require muscle from the donor site, minimizing the risk of losing muscle strength.
The type of tissue used during your breast reconstruction surgery will depend on your specific circumstances. Common donor sites include the lower abdomen, back, and thighs.
I had an arm lift and a breast lift after weight loss, and I’m very pleased with the results. I’ve felt completely supported and well cared for this entire journey, and would absolutely recommend this practice to anyone seeking a good plastic surgeon.
Types of Free Flap Reconstruction in Northern Virginia
DIEP Flap
The deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap uses skin and tissue from your abdomen to form a new breast mound. This procedure minimizes muscle impact, preserving abdominal strength.
Hybrid DIEP Flap
This method combines the DIEP procedure with a small implant to provide additional breast volume.
PAP Flap
The profunda artery perforator (PAP) flap uses skin and fat from the posterior thigh, making it a good option for women with limited abdominal tissue or those planning future pregnancies.
TUG Flap
The transverse upper gracilis (TUG) flap utilizes muscle and fatty tissue from the inner thighs or abdomen, suitable for women with thighs that touch and smaller-sized breasts.
TDAP Flap
The thoracodorsal artery perforator (TDAP) flap uses skin and fat tissue from the upper back and underarm areas, reconstructing the breast with tissue from areas where extra fat is common.
Who Should Consider Free Flap Breast Reconstruction?
Free flap breast reconstruction is suitable for:
Patients with Insufficient Chest Tissue
Ideal for those who lack enough tissue on the chest wall for traditional implant-based reconstruction.
Women Preferring Natural Reconstruction
Those who prefer the look and feel of natural tissue over implants.
Individuals Planning Future Pregnancies
Options like the PAP flap are suitable for women who may want to get pregnant in the future.
Patients Concerned with Muscle Preservation
Techniques like DIEP and TDAP minimize muscle impact, preserving strength and function in donor areas.
Expertise of Dr. Ghaznavi in Cosmetic and Reconstructive Breast Surgery
Dr. Amir Ghaznavi is a highly skilled and experienced surgeon in both cosmetic and reconstructive breast surgery. His advanced training in microvascular surgery allows him to perform complex procedures like free flap reconstruction with precision and care. Dr. Ghaznavi’s commitment to his patients is reflected in his E3 philosophy: Empathy, Expertise, and Education.
Empathy
Dr. Ghaznavi and his team prioritize understanding and responding to each patient’s unique needs and circumstances. They foster a supportive and caring environment, which is crucial in the patient-provider relationship.
Expertise
With extensive training and experience in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Ghaznavi is equipped to deliver exceptional results. His expertise in microvascular surgery ensures that patients receive the highest standard of care.
Education
Dr. Ghaznavi believes in empowering patients through education. By providing comprehensive information and guidance, he helps patients make informed decisions about their medical care.
Frequently Asked Questions About Free Flap Breast Reconstruction
Recovery time varies, but most patients can return to normal activities within 4 to 6 weeks. Full recovery, including the subsiding of swelling and final results, may take several months.
Yes, free flap reconstruction can be performed immediately following mastectomy or as a delayed procedure, depending on the patient’s medical condition and preferences.
While there will be scars at the donor site, they are typically placed in less visible areas and fade over time. Dr. Ghaznavi uses advanced techniques to minimize scarring.
Free flap reconstruction is suitable for many patients, but individual suitability depends on factors such as overall health, body type, and personal preferences. Dr. Ghaznavi will evaluate your specific situation during the consultation.
Risks include infection, bleeding, and issues with blood flow to the transplanted tissue. Dr. Ghaznavi will discuss these risks and how to mitigate them during your consultation.
How do I know which type of flap is best for me?
The best type of flap for you depends on various factors, including your body type, medical history, and aesthetic goals. Dr. Ghaznavi will help you decide the most suitable option during your consultation.
Meet Dr. AMIR GHAZNAVI
Dr. Amir Mahan Ghaznavi is a dual board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon in Northern Virginia and the founder of AMG Plastic Surgery. Dr. Ghaznavi chose plastic surgery to fuse his passion for aesthetics in art with the practice of functional surgery. Dr. Ghaznavi believes these two aspects go hand-in-hand in creating a holistic approach to surgery. His “E3 philosophy” of Empathy, Expertise, and Education permeates his practice. He lives to empathize with his patients needs, while demonstrating expertise in surgical skill and educating his patients to make the most informed decisions about their medical care.
Schedule a Consult for Free Flap Breast Reconstruction in Northern Virginia
If you are considering free flap breast reconstruction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ghaznavi at AMG Plastic Surgery in Reston, Northern Virginia. Dr. Ghaznavi will evaluate your condition, discuss your options, and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you achieve the best possible results. Take the first step towards restoring your breast shape with natural-looking results by booking your appointment today.
