TRAM Flap Breast Reconstruction
Breast reconstruction is a surgical technique that offers cancer survivors the chance to reclaim a breast that has been taken through mastectomy, or breast removal surgery. The TRAM flap technique is one among several breast reconstruction options available.
FAQ About TRAM Flap Breast Reconstruction
What is TRAM flap breast reconstruction?
It is a surgical technique in which tissue from the lower abdominal wall is grafted onto the chest. The procedure is named after the transverse rectus abdominis muscle, from which a small portion is removed, along with fat, skin, blood vessels. The flap can either remain attached to its original blood supply, or be connected to the new site using advanced microsurgical techniques.
Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
TRAM flap breast reconstruction is suitable for many women who have undergone a mastectomy to treat breast cancer. Other indications that suggest suitability for the procedure include:
- failure of other breast reconstruction methods
- other types of breast or chest wall deformities
- unusually large or small opposite breast that is difficult to match with an implant
Prospective patients should have realistic expectations for surgical outcomes and be coping well with their cancer diagnosis and treatments.
What happens during the surgery?
Breast reconstruction is a major operation that takes place in a hospital setting. After general anesthesia has been administered, Dr. Feledy will remove the tissue flap from your abdomen and graft it onto the new site. This may be combined with a breast implant to provide optimal results. After reconstructing the breast, which may include creating a new nipple and areola, Dr. Feledy will closes all incisions.
What happens after TRAM flap breast reconstruction?
Most patients will require between four and five days of hospitalization before they can return home after this procedure. It may take six to eight weeks before normal activities can be resumed, although each patient is different and needs to recover at her own pace.
Schedule a Consultation to Learn More
TRAM breast flap reconstruction is one among many options available to breast cancer survivors hoping to make a new start. We encourage you to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jules Feledy, a board-certified plastic surgeon, to learn about your reconstruction options. You can call our Stafford, Virginia office at 540-891-0040, or our Chevy Chase, Maryland office at 301-654-5666. Our offices are conveniently located in the Washington D.C. suburbs near Bethesda, Silver Spring, and Arlington.
