Autologous Breast Reconstruction with Bilateral Stacked Free Flaps in Massive Weight Loss Patients

Abstract

Summary:. Patients with a history of massive weight loss who are undergoing autologous breast reconstruction after mastectomy represent a unique surgical challenge. Although these patients often have an abundance of excess skin, it may be difficult to acquire sufficient tissue volume for adequate reconstruction of bilateral breasts using single flap techniques due to the paucity of subcutaneous fat. Stacked flap techniques have emerged as an effective method in thinner patients with suboptimal fat distribution who desire autologous breast reconstruction. This can serve as an ideal strategy, specifically in this patient population, when it serves the dual function of providing adequate volume for bilateral breast reconstruction and the secondary benefit of removing the excess skin present after massive weight loss. In this article, we discuss surgical techniques used during two cases of bilateral stacked flap breast reconstruction in cancer patients subsequent to massive weight loss.