Tissue Flap Surgery for Breast Reconstruction

Tissue flap surgery is done using Reference general anesthesia Opens New Window, so you sleep during the procedure. Depending on the procedure, the surgery may take several hours to complete, and you may need a Reference blood transfusion Opens New Window.

When you wake up from surgery, you will have bandages over the surgery sites, and you may wear a special bra that holds your bandages in place. You will also have drainage tubes to collect fluid and keep it from building up around the surgery sites.

You will stay in the hospital about 5 days so your doctor can be sure there is good blood supply to the skin over the reconstruction. A Reference physical therapist Opens New Window may show you exercises while you are still in the hospital. These can help keep your shoulder from getting stiff.

Most woman have soreness, redness, and swelling in the breast and the area where the tissue was taken. The swelling may last for several weeks. You may need pain medicine for a week or two. Your doctor may also prescribe Reference antibiotics Opens New Window to help prevent infection.

You may be able to go back to work or your normal routine in 3 to 6 weeks. Most women need to avoid strenuous activity for several weeks.

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