For patients who need autologous breast reconstruction—often after a mastectomy, a revision, or implant complications—the latissimus flap reconstruction uses your own back muscle and skin to cover and augment the breasts.
Latissimus Flap Reconstruction San Diego
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Why Choose Dr. Gupta?
25+ Years of Board-Certified Expertise
With more than two decades of experience, Dr. Abhay Gupta brings surgical precision and sound judgment to every breast reconstruction. His steady, hands-on approach ensures that each patient receives personalized care and results that are both natural and long-lasting.
Extensive Reconstructive Background
Dr. Gupta completed advanced fellowship training in microsurgery and autologous tissue transfer at world-renowned institutions, including MD Anderson Cancer Center and the Cleveland Clinic Foundation. His deep reconstructive expertise allows him to tailor each flap design for smooth transitions, soft contours, and a natural breast shape.
Personalized, Surgeon-Led Care
From preoperative planning to recovery and long-term follow-up, Dr. Gupta is directly involved at every stage of your care. His attention to detail and commitment to patient safety ensure an experience that is both supportive and seamless.
Refined, Natural Artistry
Dr. Gupta believes the best outcomes feel effortless and true to you. His artistic approach enhances your natural form, achieving results that restore confidence while maintaining balance and authenticity.
The Benefits of Latissimus Flap Reconstruction in San Diego & Encinitas
- Uses your own vascularized tissue, which improves durability and enhances healing
- Often reduces or eliminates the need for implants
- Offers soft tissue coverage, which is often needed in complex revision cases
- Can be combined with fat grafting to refine your breast volume and contour
Delivers reliable results with lower complication rates compared to other options
Who Is a Candidate?
You may be a candidate for this latissimus flap reconstruction in San Diego if you:
- Need more soft tissue coverage after your mastectomy
- Have adequate donor tissue and back muscle strength
- Prefer autologous reconstruction or want a hybrid (flap + implant) approach
- Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations
The Latissimus Flap Reconstruction Process
Your process will begin with a detailed consultation with Dr. Gupta. During that appointment, he will evaluate your back, chest, and reconstructive needs. You’ll discuss flap design, incision placement, donor site implications, and options to combine the flap with fat grafting or implants to achieve your aesthetic goals.
Your actual surgery will be performed under general anesthesia in a fully accredited hospital or surgical center. To begin, Dr. Gupta and his team will harvest muscle, skin, and a vascular pedicle from your upper back, tunnel it beneath your skin to the chest, and shape it into a natural breast mound. If necessary, he can also place an implant or additional fat grafts to sculpt beautifully full and balanced breasts that align with your aesthetic vision.
Latissimus Flap Reconstruction Frequently Asked Questions
Will I have visible scarring on my back?
Incisions are necessary, so scarring will occur. However, Dr. Gupta will conceal the back donor incision along the bra line or within your natural folds whenever possible. He’s also known for using advanced closure techniques that minimize scar prominence.
Can the latissimus flap be done on both breasts?
Yes, bilateral reconstruction is feasible. During your consultation at our San Diego office, Dr. Gupta will evaluate your tissue availability, symmetry, and overall health to determine the safest plan.
How long will the results last?
Because this technique uses your own vascularized tissue, the results should be extremely long-lasting. However, aging, weight changes, and gravity can still impact these outcomes over time.
Will I lose strength or movement in my back or shoulder?
Most women maintain their normal strength and full range of motion after they’ve recovered from latissimus flap reconstruction. Dr. Gupta’s advanced microsurgical technique preserves the nearby muscles and minimizes functional loss. If you experience any post-surgical tightness, it will be temporary and can be treated with physical therapy.
Can I combine breast implants with a latissimus flap?
Absolutely. Some patients achieve their desired size with the transferred tissue alone, while others may combine the flap with an implant for additional volume or symmetry. Dr. Gupta will help you determine the best approach based on your anatomy and goals.
