Before & After Photos Patient 147 | Grand Rapids, MI

Before & After Pictures of Patient 147

Procedures Performed: Free Flap (D.I.E.P.) Breast Reconstruction, TRAM Flap Breast Reconstruction

« Back | Gallery Home

Case Number: 147

Before

After

*This 46 year old woman had bilateral mastectomies for a breast cancer. Her reconstructive surgeon suggested using her abdominal tissue to reconstruct her breasts. The surgical plan involved using a “muscle sparing free TRAM”. In other words, her abdominal tissue was harvested by dissecting the main artery and vein that give the tummy tissue its blood supply and then micro-surgically hooking the vessels up to an artery and vein in the patient’s chest wall. This allowed her to have a breast reconstruction using her own tissue but without losing her rectus muscles by removing the tummy tissue with the rectus muscles still attached (as is done when a “pedicle” TRAM flap is done). The first stage of her reconstruction was done at the time of her mastectomies, incorporated a breast reduction in the plan and was done as an in-patient. Some of her tummy skin replaced the nipple and areola temporarily. Approximately 6 months later the final breast shaping, scar revisions and nipple & areola reconstruction were done as an out patient. Six months following the final breast shaping, the nipple & areolas were tattooed by our cosmetic tattoo artist. The beauty of this procedure is that she was able to have her breasts reconstructed with her own tissue, had a breast reconstruction that was more in proportion to her body frame, and got a tummy tuck by default while keeping her rectus muscles intact. She is very pleased with her final result.

Surgeon: Partners in Plastic Surgery

If you like the results you see here, request a consultation to learn more about how this procedure can help you achieve your ideal appearance. We encourage you to print your favorite photos and bring them with you during your consultation to help communicate your goals and expectations.

*Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary. Unless otherwise noted, photos in our online gallery are of actual patients of our practice who have provided consent to display their pictures online.