Latissimus dorsi breast reconstruction

The latissimus dorsi flap provides a predictable, reliable, and safe breast reconstruction, and the original description and use of this flap was a defining moment in plastic surgery. It can replace skin loss, soften contours, produce a natural ptotic shape, provide vascularized protection of prosthetic devices, and even be fashioned as a complete reconstruction without implants. Partial breast defects can also be effectively reconstructed with this flap. It can be used in immediate, skin-sparing mastectomy reconstruction or equally in delayed reconstruction. While free tissue transfer, perforator flaps, and modern acellular dermal matrix techniques have been refined over the past decade, the latissimus dorsi flap has provided a safe alternative with the potential for excellent reconstructive results.