At Ginger Slack, MD, we offer stacked flap reconstruction as a sophisticated option to restore natural volume and symmetry after breast cancer. With advanced expertise in DIEP and other flap techniques, Dr. Slack customizes each procedure to create a healthy, realistic breast mound, helping you reclaim your confidence and femininity.
Rebuild a natural breast mound using two flaps
Stacked flap reconstruction is an innovative technique that uses two flaps of tissue to rebuild a single breast, often from the abdomen, thigh, or buttock. This provides a more natural volume match between your reconstructed and healthy breast. Dr. Slack customizes each surgery to fit your body, ensuring a seamless result that restores symmetry and beauty. Ideal for women with limited donor fat, stacked flap reconstruction offers a long-lasting, realistic breast mound, helping you move forward after breast cancer and feel whole again.
Benefits of stacked flap reconstruction:
- Provides natural, long-lasting volume for the reconstructed breast
- Avoids the need for tissue expanders
- Can be performed the same day as mastectomy
- Slims and contours the donor area
- Restores a healthy, realistic breast mound
- Customizable to fit individual body needs
- Ideal for women with limited donor fat
- Offers a more balanced and symmetric result
What can I expect during the consultation?
During your consultation with Dr. Slack, you’ll discuss your medical history, goals, and preferences for breast reconstruction. Dr. Slack will take the time to understand your body type and explain the stacked flap procedure in detail. She’ll assess your eligibility for the technique, including reviewing your abdominal, thigh, or buttock tissue for potential use. You’ll also have the opportunity to ask questions and voice any concerns. Dr. Slack will provide a personalized treatment plan and empower you to make informed decisions for your body.
What happens during the stacked flap reconstruction procedure?
Dr. Slack will begin by making incisions at the donor site, which could be the abdomen, thigh, or buttock, depending on your body and needs. She will carefully remove two flaps of tissue—often using both sides of the abdomen if performing a DIEP flap reconstruction.
Once the tissue is harvested, Dr. Slack expertly dissects and prepares the flaps, then carefully repositions them to restore volume. The blood vessels are carefully connected to blood vessels in the chest area to ensure proper circulation and healing. Depending on your anatomy, the two flaps may be stacked on top of one another or folded to create a natural-looking breast. The procedure typically takes several hours and is performed under general anesthesia.
What can I expect during recovery after stacked flap reconstruction?
Following your stacked flap reconstruction, you’ll spend a few days in the hospital under close observation. Initially, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in both the donor and reconstruction sites. Dr. Slack will provide detailed instructions on managing pain and caring for your surgical sites. You may also have to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling. You’ll also have drains in place for a few days to prevent fluid buildup.
Within the first two weeks, you should avoid lifting heavy objects and engage in minimal physical activity. You can gradually return to light activities after 2-3 weeks. Full recovery may take 6-8 weeks, but many patients begin to feel significantly better within a month. Dr. Slack will monitor your progress closely to ensure proper healing and the best possible outcome.
What will my scars look like?
Scarring is an inevitable part of any surgical procedure, but Dr. Slack takes great care in making incisions in discreet, natural folds of the body. For the stacked flap procedure, you’ll have scars at the donor site (typically the abdomen, thigh, or buttock) and around the breast. The donor site scars will be strategically placed to be less noticeable and can even result in body contouring benefits. Over time, the scars will fade, but they will never disappear completely.
Will my breasts look and feel natural?
Dr. Slack focuses on creating a balanced breast shape that complements your unique curves.
Using your own tissue ensures that the reconstructed breast looks and feels soft, similar to your natural breast. Over time, as the tissue heals and integrates, the reconstructed breast will settle into its final shape. While there may be slight differences compared to your original breast, most women find the results incredibly satisfying, helping them feel whole and confident again.
Why choose Dr. Ginger Slack?
Dr. Ginger Slack is a board-certified plastic surgeon with a microsurgery fellowship, specializing in breast reconstruction. With advanced expertise in complex procedures like stacked flap reconstruction, she offers a personalized approach to restoring your natural beauty and symmetry after breast cancer. Dr. Slack combines her meticulous surgical techniques with compassionate care to help you feel whole again. If you’re ready to explore your options, schedule a consultation today.
