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Reconstruction increases lymphedema risk?

Page last modified on: September 30, 2008
Question from Kerri: I have had a lumpectomy with some node removal. I am now going to have a double mastectomy with reconstruction using stomach tissue. Will this increase my risk of lymphedema in my arm? And what are the risks of the stomach tissue not working out for new breasts?
Answer —Carolyn Chang, M.D.: That's something you would need to talk to your operating surgeon about. It varies from person to person, and it's not always entirely predictable. Having reconstruction should not directly impact your lymphedema. A pedicle TRAM flap in a healthy non-smoker who's close to her ideal weight is virtually 100%. I will say that, in my opinion, one of the better indications for undergoing a micro-vascular DIEP flap would be a bilateral stomach flap, because when you take rectus muscles you do weaken the abdominal wall.

On Wednesday, April 20, 2005, our Ask-the-Expert Online Conference was called Reconstruction and Safe, Sexy Cosmetics. Carolyn C. Chang, M.D., Anna-Dee Rinehart, S.C.S., and moderator Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. answered your questions about reconstructive surgery and safe, sexy cosmetics.

The materials presented in these conferences do not necessarily reflect the views of breastcancer.org. A qualified healthcare professional should be consulted before using any therapeutic product or regimen discussed. All readers should verify all information and data before employing any therapies described here.

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Meet the Experts

Carolyn C. Chang, M.D. is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction after mastectomy, TRAM flap reconstruction, and implant reconstruction.

Anna-Dee Rinehart S.C.S. is a nurse-aesthetician, aesthetic instructor, and director of education for Austin Medical Aesthetics in Austin, Texas.

Lillie Shockney, RN., BS., M.A.S.Lillie Shockney, R.N., B.S., M.A.S. is the administrative director of the Johns Hopkins Avon Foundation Breast Center.

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