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Re: Lat Flap Recon
Deb- I had the lat flap. The first couple of weeks are rough like any surgery. But the fact that it is only on one side unlike the double mastecomy was a benefit. I had to have an additional drain put in at the breast (one will be put in on your back) I had trouble with fluid retention with both surgeries. I would definitely ask your PS for a physical therapy referal since you are an active person. I waited and ended up with a tight shoulder capsule which limits my external rotation. Very important to strengthen your rotator cuff and mid trap and rhomboid area as these will be the structures that will now be supporting your shoulder complex. The lat tendon will scar up so the PT will need to work on that. Finding one that works with BC patients is a plus. I am happy with the end result. I can't do pull-ups anymore but oh-well. If you have any more question please contact me. Good luck.
Suzanne
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 dx: DCIS 6/8/10, HER 2+ 7/26/10; Stage I Age 41
Double mast w reconstruction
6 TCH w 1yr herceptin
Tamox.
25 radiation tx
Removal of expander on L due to infection. Tried to save it had 3 bouts of antibiotics and went to see plastic surgeon 2-3x wk to get drained. Saving it was my idea not his. But lost it anyway.
Reconstruction set for December 21st,2011
Finished chemo 12/2010
Finished Herceptin 8/26/11
Reconstruction 12/21/11
Expanders exchanged for silicon 3/19/12
Nipple reconstruction 5/18/12
Nipple tatooing- 7/9/12- All done yay!
11/22/12-Went back to get scar tissue stretched to even the outside of breast, didn't work due to it being radiated skin.
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