Breast Reconstruction Recovery · NYC
Latissimus Dorsi Flap Recovery
Rehabilitation in New York City
Certified oncology rehabilitation after latissimus dorsi flap breast reconstruction — back donor site rehabilitation, shoulder mobility restoration, and breast reconstruction recovery — at Thera PT & OT in Midtown Manhattan.
Book a Free ConsultationOur ApproachWhat Latissimus Dorsi Flap Surgery Involves & Its Rehabilitation Needs
Latissimus dorsi (LD) flap reconstruction transfers the latissimus dorsi muscle and overlying skin from the back to reconstruct the breast — often combined with an implant for volume. The latissimus dorsi is a major upper body muscle responsible for shoulder extension, internal rotation, and adduction — movements essential to swimming, pulling, and many daily activities. Its harvest produces specific shoulder functional changes requiring rehabilitation to optimize remaining musculature and restore functional capacity. Seroma formation at the back donor site is also very common after LD flap and often requires drainage.
Post-LD Flap Concerns We Treat
- Shoulder range of motion restriction from both the mastectomy and LD harvest
- Shoulder weakness from latissimus dorsi removal — extension, internal rotation, and adduction
- Back donor site scar management — horizontal or diagonal back incision
- Seroma at the back donor site — very common, often requiring drainage coordination
- Breast reconstruction swelling and implant settling
- Lymphedema risk from any axillary surgery
- Altered shoulder blade movement from LD removal
Our Treatment Approach
Two-Site Assessment
We assess both the breast reconstruction site and the back donor site — shoulder range of motion in all directions, back scar status, seroma assessment, and axillary lymphatic status.
Shoulder Mobility Restoration
Progressive shoulder mobility addressing restrictions from both the mastectomy/chest wall component and the LD harvest. Shoulder extension and internal rotation are often most affected.
Back Donor Site Management
MLD and compression guidance for back seroma management. Back scar management at the donor site incision once healing allows.
Shoulder Strengthening & Compensation
Targeted strengthening of muscles that can compensate for LD function — teres major, posterior deltoid, lower trapezius — restoring the best possible shoulder strength within the changed anatomy.
Breast Site & Lymphedema Management
Breast reconstruction site MLD and scar management. Lymphedema risk monitoring where axillary surgery was performed.
LD flap recovery has unique back and shoulder dimensions requiring specialist expertise. Our certified team addresses both sites.
Book a Free ConsultationBreast Cancer RehabilitationSpecialist Care in Midtown Manhattan
Our oncology-trained, CLT-certified therapists serve breast cancer patients throughout New York City and the Tri-State Area. We coordinate with your oncology team throughout your care. No referral required in New York State. Get directions →
115 West 30th Street, Suite 502B
New York, NY 10001
Near Penn Station · 1/2/3 at 34th St–Penn
B/D/F/M/N/Q/R/W at 34th St–Herald Square
(917) 319-4492
info@thera-rehab.com
Monday – Friday · 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I be able to return to swimming after LD flap reconstruction?
The latissimus dorsi is the primary swimming muscle for the pull phase. Its removal affects swimming capacity, particularly freestyle and butterfly. With dedicated shoulder rehabilitation and strengthening of compensatory muscles, many patients return to recreational swimming.
I'm having a lot of fluid collecting on my back after LD flap. Is that normal?
Seroma at the back donor site is one of the most common complications of LD flap — the large dead space fills with fluid. This typically requires drainage by your surgical team. MLD and appropriate compression can reduce seroma recurrence between drainage sessions.
Expert latissimus dorsi flap recovery rehabilitation in Midtown Manhattan.
Contact Our TeamBook an Appointment