[Plastic surgery in the context of surgery for breast cancer. Breast reconstruction using the patient's own tissue]

The breast reconstructions after mastectomies are overviewed. The criteria of a successful operation are discussed. The result of breast reconstruction with latissimus dorsi and rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flaps are presented. The spectrum of 106 breast reconstructions of from 1987 to 1993 is published. The methods of adequate reconstructions mall, middle size and large breasts are discussed. With the reconstruction of large breasts the best results have been achieved by the transfer of rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap with micro vascular anastomoses. This flap has the best blood supply and this procedure causes the less damage to the donor area. It is stated that the breast reconstructions with living tissues are superior and preferable.