Breast reconstruction remains at the heart of the field of plastic and reconstructive surgery, and it is continuously evolving. Tremendous advances in breast implant technology and supplemental products, particularly acellu-lar dermal matrices, have revolutionized breast reconstruction in the modern era. However, microvascular free flap breast reconstruction has also witnessed profound advancements with exceptionally high success rates, with the ability to provide the most durable and natural breast reconstruction. Although the pen-dulum oscillates between prosthesis-based reconstruction and autologous tissue, the present synopsis will focus on autologous free flap breast reconstruction from an historical perspective, recent advancements in microsurgery, and the future of autologous breast reconstruction.

Learning Objectives

After viewing this course, the participant should be able to:

1. Understand the available donor sites for autologous breast reconstruction.
2. Describe the advantages and limitations of each donor site.
3. Provide a rational, algorithmic preoperative evaluation and approach for patients seeking autologous breast reconstruction.
4. Develop an effective postoperative monitoring system to minimize complications and maximize salvage of microvascular thromboses.
   

This educational activity is intended for plastic surgery practitioners, residents, and other healthcare professionals interested in translating expanded knowledge into practice for the improvement of patient outcomes in plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Disclosures
Dr. Chang, MD is a consultant for MusculoTransplant Foundation (MTF).  Dr. Rohrich, MD is the Principal/Co-Principal Investigator of research grants awarded to the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, from Medicis, Mentor, and Contura Pharmaceutical. All research funds are provided directly to UT Southwestern. Dr. Stuzin has no relevant financial relationships or affiliations to disclose. Dr. Lalonde is a consultant for ASSI Instruments. All ASPS staff members managing this activity have no relevant financial relationships or affiliations to disclose. All identified conflicts of interest have been resolved and the educational content thoroughly vetted by ASPS for fair balance, scientific objectivity, and appropriateness of patient care recommendations. The ASPS also requires faculty/authors to disclose when off-label/unapproved uses of a product are discussed in a CME activity or included in related materials.