TRAM flap reconstruction. Anyone want to share their story?

seabreaze

Newbie here. A little on me, I'm 51, I was diagnosed with bilateral cancer ( Estrogen+, Progesterone+, HER2-). Did a double mastectomy last month in June, no chemo, no radiation needed. Just had a consult visit with plastic surgeon regarding TRAM flap reconstruction. Is anyone interested in sharing with me their experience in their procedure? The procedure my surgeon has explained she will perform is, taking belly flat to make my breasts, I'm aiming for a smaller size breast, I was a C, but now thinking between A-B honestly. She's taking the rectus abdominis (middle flap of stomach area) muscles to make the breast, then pulling together my oblique muscles. At least this is the best way I can explain it. Has anyone experienced having stomach muscle issues post op? For example, are you able to do sit ups and get in and out of your car, chair, bed, etc...???

Wonderland

I hope you are recovering well from your surgery. I had a delayed DIEP reconstruction so I can't share any TRAM experience with you. When I had my mx in 2006 my surgeon told me that if I decide to have reconstruction later, DO NOT let them take any muscle. He had seen too many women who had problems from the muscle being removed, exactly like you mentioned in your last sentence (woman couldn't sit up to get out of bed, etc.). There are so many options for breast reconstruction that don't include taking muscle: TUG, SGAP, stacked DIEP, etc. Many doctors will only discuss procedures that they do bc they want your business. It's your decision what type of recon you want, but I suggest researching all the options that are currently available. The tram is pretty much considered old school now (and I had my diep in 2009!). Good Luck!