Flap Surgery

Because tissue expansion using breast implants is not appropriate for every Newport Beach breast surgery patient, flap reconstruction can be a viable alternative. For this Orange County breast surgery technique, Dr. Smith rebuilds the breast with a tissue flap of skin, fat, and muscle transplanted from another area of the body, such as the abdomen, buttocks, or back.

Visit Dr. Smith

Register online for an appointment at our office.

Photo Gallery

Real patients share their before and after photos.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Flap Surgery

As with the implant reconstruction technique, flap surgery has its own set of pros and cons. The advantages for our breast reconstruction patients from Orange County, California include a natural feeling reconstructed breast, made of living tissue that is not rejected by the body and does not need to be replaced. The disadvantages of flap surgery include a lengthy, complex surgery, additional scars at the donor site, and increased recovery time.

Types of Flap Surgery

The variations of flap surgery depend on the location of the donor tissue and the way in which it is transplanted to the chest. Common methods include TRAM (Transverse Rectus Abdominus Muscle) and DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator), which use lower abdominal tissue; and latissimus dorsi, which uses back tissue. Dr. Smith will review your situation carefully and help you determine which method is most appropriate for you.

Let Us Help You

Dr. Andrew Smith has improved the lives of many Newport Beach mastectomy patients through reconstructive breast surgery. If you are facing mastectomy and considering reconstruction, he welcomes the opportunity to speak with you about the available options. Request a consultation online with Dr. Smith. You can also call our Irvine and Corona offices at 949.653.7000.