Local Perforator Flaps

A perforator flap is an area of skin and underlying fat that is used to fill a defect where a breast cancer is removed. It has its own blood supply and this must be preserved for the ‘flap’ to survive.

The flap is usually created from tissue under your arm or your upper abdomen. This type of procedure is usually used for tumours in the outer half and lower half of the breast, where the excision would leave an unacceptable defect.

The surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic and takes around 2 hours. You will have a waterproof dressing and will be able to shower after the surgery. Some patients will go home the day of surgery and some will stay in hospital for one night. You should be able to do most things for yourself immediately after the surgery and are encouraged to do so.

Recovery

You will need up to a week off work depending on your occupation. You should avoid soaking in a bath, swimming, heavy lifting, and strenuous exercise until your post op appointment with Dr Forsyth which will be two weeks after your surgery. She will discuss your pathology results with you at this appointment.

Post operative bra

Dr Forsyth recommends that you wear a soft, supportive bra in the post operative period. You should wear this at all times during the day but can remove it at night.