A DIEP flap reconstruction is a type of breast reconstruction procedure that uses your own tissue to reconstruct the breast(s). This procedure can be performed either during the mastectomy procedure or at a later date. In a DIEP flap reconstruction, skin, fat, and blood vessels are taken from your abdomen.
DIEP flap reconstruction is recommended for patients who want to achieve nicely natural looking and feeling breast(s) after a mastectomy has been performed.
Even if one breast is healthy, your doctor may recommend the procedure for both breasts to maximize the symmetry and harmony between the two breasts. Patients should be aware that the surgeon will work to get the best results possible from this procedure but the patients must have realistic expectations that the mastectomy scars will remain and that their breasts will look much nicer after the procedure but will not look exactly like they did before the mastectomy.
An ideal candidate for the DIEP flap reconstruction surgery is a relatively healthy patient with enough abdominal tissue but who is not obese, has not had abdominal surgery in the past, and is not a smoker. Ideal candidates will also have finished their chemotherapy and radiation treatments 6-12 months before the reconstruction surgery.
The DIEP flap reconstruction allows for patients to reconstruct their breasts without the use of implants, instead, tissue, muscle, and blood vessels from the abdomen are used. This procedure will bring a natural appearance to the breasts of cancer survivors who lost their breasts to a mastectomy.
Unlike a TRAM flap reconstruction, the DIEP flap method preserves the strength and muscle in your lower abdomen. This translates to a faster and less painful recovery.
The end result will be a more confident and self-assured woman with natural-looking and feeling breasts who can make clothing choices without having to hide imperfections in her breasts.
Be certain that you are in the best hands of highly skilled, experienced, and dedicated healthcare providers. Relax and allow us to provide you with the highest level of care from the moment you walk through our doors. If you want to ask any additional questions or have any special requests, do not hesitate to let us know, we are here for you