Discussions

Hello everyone,

I will be undergoing a modified radical mastectomy in February of the right breast followed by radiation and more chemo.  My surgeon advised that if I were to choose reconstruction, the best method for me would be the Tram Flap.  Has anyone undergone the Tram Flap?  If so, how did you find the procedure to be?  How did you feel after this?  Were there any complications?  Would you recommend it?  Any information you have will be greatly appreciated.

I would like to wish all of all of us "sisters" out there a very happy and healthy 2009!

Love, Winnie

 hi win, you will be in my thoughts and prayers as you under go this ordeal. are you having reconstruction right after surgery? they are waiting on me.i have so many questions that my dr.'s have yet answered me. we are waiting on my BRAC test to come back to see weather they will be removing my left breast and ovaries. once all this done my dr has also recomended myself to have tram flap done....i figure why not i have enough belly fat to go around....thanks for your comments you left me too win....keep me posted....hugs,lisa

 Hi Win And Lisa, I too am having bilateral surgery,scheduled for Jan 16. I wanted the tram flap,but was told I was TOO fat! LOl Imagine that!!! So they told me I could do the DEIP or DIEP(whatever) flap.(I have complications so am just doing implants) This procedure does not take away your muscle as does the tram flap. I suggest you look them up on computer and compare them.  They just use your fat for Deip . I am also understanding that when doing these types of procedures it is better to do it for Bilateral than just one. ONLY because they still have to take fat from both sides of belly to even you out and if ever( God help us) you need surgery again this procedure will not be able to be done. Also it is a long operation and very painful. I have talked to women who have had it done and they love it. Some have had only one done and others both. Good Luck to you both I will pray for you. Hugs Cathy

Hi Winnie. i had the Tram Flap in 1998 at 31 years old. It definitely is a painful procedure. I had mine at Mayo and was soo glad( a month later) that I did! I got the free tummy tuck, which I didn't need then as much as now. But, at that age, I did not want anything foreign in my body. With your own fat, it seems so much more natural. I am very happy with it I did end up with a hernia a year later and they had to cut me again (another free tummy tuck ) and add mesh. I actually got on here because my husband is 54 and I am 43 and went to get a hysterectomy yesterday-all pre-opped and found out I was pregnant. I was told I could not carry a baby, so I have a lot to think about and calls to make-to Mayo. Good Luck and I hope it turns out like mine. i was very happy about that decision. Happy 2009! and Prayers for you! love, pam

Hi ladies - Lisa, Cathy & Pam,

Thanks for answering my posting and your advice.  I still have some time to consider the Tram Flap (I haven't even done the mastectomy yet!)  The Tram Flap was what my surgeon suggested, but who knows what the plastic surgeon will offer when I meet with him. 

I am thinking of you all and am sending positive vibes your way.  I hope things will work out for the best for all of us.  

Think positive and stay strong!

Love & Hugs, Winnie