I had my last reconstructive surgery in 2005. My surgeon performed a tramflap (I think that is what it is called) wherein he removed muscle from my back and transferred to my right breast. The scar on my back is horrible! Looks like I was butchered. My first question is, is there anyway to correct the scar/incision to look more natural as well as remove the "dog ear" that was left on my rightside under my arm. The tramflap procedure outcome was not was my surgeon lead me to believe. I was looking to receive a more natural, softer looking breast. The surgeon failed to tell me that since I had radiation prior to reconstructive surgery, the scar tissue hardened. Needless to say, my breast is hard as a rock. Is there anyway of correcting this?

Hello Tania,

It's always a bitter sweet time for us to welcome in a new member to our forums and then find out that they are here because of a dissatisfaction with plastic surgery results. Everyone here understands what it is like to want to improve themselves and the fear that accompanies that decision with the possible risks. Please know that we are all here for you throughout this entire process and will be here as a sounding board, advice giver, or just a shoulder to cry on!

In regards to your question, yes there are absolutely options for you in regards to fixing/adjusting your body now that the healing process has given you a clear picture of what your body has become post surgery. The scar on your back can be lightened with laser treatments, although some believe in the more holistic approach of massive Vitamin E treatments via lotions and salves available at any drug store. There are many whose skin respond very well to Vitamin E and others see little to no difference after a couple of months of daily treatment. It's up to you if you'd like to skip straight to surgery or try something more natural first.

The hardened breast can also be augmented, although the details of how that would be done would be entirely up to the plastic surgeon you choose for the procedure. There are a few avenues that they can take, the easiest and most obvious of which is to replace the muscle they used with an implant.

The skin flap you have under your arm can easily be corrected with an under arm lift, which your new plastic surgeon will likely advise you on and possibly perform while they have you under for the breast repair.

Again, please know that we are here for you and hope that you return to give us an update on what you have decided to do and how the progress goes!