TRAM Breast Reconstruction Option for Post-Mastectomy Patients
After conquering a mastectomy to remove one or both breasts in order to treat breast cancer, many patients often elect to have breast reconstruction surgery in order to rebuild breasts and restore body confidence. At Atlanta Plastic Surgery we offer several breast reconstruction methods to best fit our patients’ needs.
During your breast reconstruction consultation, we will get a full medical history, discuss your available options and answer your questions about the different reconstructive options available. It is important to remember to fully discuss why you wish to have the surgery and review your cosmetic goals with one of our plastic surgeons. This will ensure that your expectations are in line with what our surgeons can realistically provide you with. In addition, there are many factors used to determine if a patient is a good candidate for breast reconstruction, including overall health, smoking, variety of breast cancer treatment, and previous surgical history.
The founder of Atlanta Plastic Surgery, Dr. Carl Hartampf Jr., is known for his significant contributions to one of the most popular techniques for natural breast tissue reconstruction, the TRAM flap operation. There are two types of TRAM flap procedures, each providing an end result of shaping a new breast(s) from tissue from your own body. The pedicled TRAM flap (transverse rectus abdominis muscle flap) procedure uses tissue from the torso, including abdominal fat, muscle, and skin, to form a new breast(s). The difference between this and the free TRAM method is that the pedicled TRAM flap maintains connection to blood vessels within the abdomen, whereas free TRAM separates the donor tissue completely, and reconnects the blood supply once the tissue has been repositioned.
If a patient does not have enough donor tissue, building new breasts by inserting a saline or silicone implant under the skin or underneath the chest muscle is another option. Determined by volume of saline or silicone within the implant shell, implant size is tailored to fit each patient’s total physical appearance and desire.
Don’t be afraid to ask essential questions about your recovery period regarding medication, follow-ups, and any other care concerns. At Atlanta Plastic Surgery, we are here to help you find the best option for your breast reconstruction surgery. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for the latest in breast reconstruction surgery news and procedures.
