The Lateral Thoracodorsal Flap in Delayed Bilateral Breast Reconstruction for an Obese Patient with Redundant Lateral Chest Wall Soft Tissue

Abstract

Obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 kg/m2), one of the main risk factors for complicationsof breast reconstruction, makes surgeon hesitate to choose a single ideal surgicaltechnique. Compared to transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap and latissimusdorsi flap, standard methods for autologous breast reconstruction, local flaps havesome advantages in terms of aesthetic results and surgical morbidity. A 55-year-oldwoman who had been undergone modified radical mastectomy, complaints of breastdeformity and redundant both lateral chest wall soft tissue. We decided to perform thelateral thoracodorsal flap with implant considering obesity which can cause prolongedoperating time and unpredictable results. No major complications were encounteredand competent result was obtained when cosmetic analysis was conducted 6 monthsafter surgery.