DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction

DIEP Flap breast reconstruction surgery is an advanced technique designed to restore the breasts after mastectomy. One of the most prominent advantages of this treatment is its ability to recreate breasts with results that look as natural as possible without breast implants. Additionally, since DIEP Flap breast reconstruction involves the removal of excess skin and fat from the abdomen for relocation to the breast area, patients are provided with a version of the tummy tuck procedure, as well. Our skilled plastic surgeons are extensively trained and experienced in the microsurgical techniques required for DIEP Flap breast reconstruction procedures. With a customized treatment plan, this state-of-the-art breast reconstruction option can help many women restore their breasts with exceptional results.

What Is DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction?
DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Insurance
DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Candidates
What Is Advanced DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction?
Video: Understanding Advanced DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
Your DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Journey
DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Procedure
DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Recovery
DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction for Out-of-Town Patients
Virtual Consultations for DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
Additional DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction FAQs

What Is DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction?

Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap (DIEP Flap) breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that removes excess, healthy tissue from the abdomen and uses it to create a new breast mound. DIEP Flap is an option in a collection of breast reconstruction techniques known as autologous perforator flap procedures, where tissues from a different region of the patient’s body are transferred to the chest area in order to recreate the breasts. While some flap techniques involve the relocation of muscle in addition to skin and fat, the DIEP Flap technique only relocates skin and fat. DIEP Flap breast reconstruction requires these tissues to be taken from the abdomen, which allows patients to achieve an added body contouring benefit in the form of an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck); however, as DIEP Flap procedures are “muscle-sparing” breast reconstruction techniques, the abdominoplasty component of this procedure will not involve the harvesting of muscle tissue. This makes it possible for patients to experience a more rapid and comfortable recovery while reducing the possibility of muscle weakness or hernia following the surgery. Additionally, DIEP Flap breast reconstruction is known to produce results that appear much like natural breasts.

Is DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Covered by Insurance?

As of January 1, 2026, insurance coverage for breast reconstruction procedures—including deep flap (DIEP) reconstruction—will be significantly expanded in Arkansas. Act 424, passed during the 2025 legislative session as Senate Bill 83, ensures that health benefit plans must cover these surgeries, provided patients receive prior authorization. In addition, the law establishes a required minimum reimbursement rate for healthcare providers performing these procedures. The legislation was signed into law on April 3, 2025.

The passage of this historic legislation marked not just a legal milestone, but also a deeply meaningful achievement for those who need access to breast reconstruction services, as well as members of our own practice. Dr. Robert Taylor and our manager, Jennifer Moore, were key figures in the advocacy efforts that led to the bill’s success. Through their commitment and perseverance, they helped bring critical attention to longstanding gaps in insurance coverage for breast reconstruction.

Their involvement was helpful in shaping the bill’s language to address those gaps—ensuring that more women will now have access to advanced reconstructive options such as DIEP flap breast reconstruction. Drawing on Dr. Taylor’s clinical expertise and insights gained from working directly with patients, his voice was vital in the push for fair and comprehensive coverage.

The leadership shown by Dr. Taylor throughout this process reflects a broader commitment to advancing access to care. Along with support from patient advocates, state lawmakers, and national organizations like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, their contributions helped pave the way for meaningful and lasting change for women across Arkansas.

You can view more information about the new Arkansas breast reconstruction insurance law here.

Check your Insurance Eligibility

Am I a Candidate for DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction?

Ideal candidates for DIEP Flap breast reconstruction typically include individuals who prefer or require a reconstruction procedure that does not involve the addition of breast implants or significant manipulation/transfer of muscle tissue to create the new breasts. Candidates must also have a sufficient amount of excess tissue in the abdomen for relocation to the breast area. Patients who have had previous TRAM Flap surgery for breast reconstruction and those who have had an abdominoplasty procedure, a colostomy, or reconstruction of the abdominal wall in the past are usually not the best candidates for DIEP Flap breast reconstruction. During your initial consultation, our plastic surgeon will evaluate your needs and go over your options to determine whether DIEP Flap breast reconstruction or an alternative breast reconstruction procedure offers the best possible solution.

WHAT IS ADVANCED DIEP FLAP BREAST RECONSTRUCTION?

Advanced DIEP Flap breast reconstruction goes beyond a single standardized technique. At our practice, “advanced” reflects the depth of experience and range of microsurgical approaches our surgeons use to tailor reconstruction to each patient’s anatomy, cancer history, and goals.

Rather than applying a one-size-fits-all method, our surgeons evaluate factors such as blood vessel anatomy, prior surgeries, radiation therapy, and desired breast shape to determine the most appropriate DIEP Flap technique. This advanced level of planning and execution allows for greater precision, improved blood flow to the transferred tissue, and refined shaping of the reconstructed breast. The goal is not only successful reconstruction, but also long-term comfort, durability, and results that feel natural to each patient.

Video: Understanding Advanced DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction

Choosing breast reconstruction is a deeply personal decision, and understanding your options is an important first step. In the video below, our surgeons discuss DIEP Flap breast reconstruction in greater detail, including the advanced techniques they use to individualize each procedure. You’ll hear directly from our team about how DIEP Flap surgery is performed, what sets advanced approaches apart, and how thoughtful planning and microsurgical expertise can contribute to safe procedures and natural-looking outcomes.

Your DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Journey

Breast reconstruction is not a single event—it is a journey that unfolds over time. From your first consultation through recovery and beyond, our team is committed to providing personalized guidance, education, and support at every stage.

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation, where your medical history, treatment timeline, and personal goals are carefully reviewed. From there, a customized surgical plan is developed, reflecting both your needs and the advanced techniques best suited to you. Throughout the process, patients can benefit from the coordinated efforts of an experienced surgical team that performs DIEP Flap reconstruction on a regular basis. This continuity of care can help ensure clear communication, thoughtful decision-making, and a smoother overall experience.

How Is the DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Procedure Performed?

DIEP Flap breast reconstruction begins with the abdominoplasty component of the procedure. Excess skin and fat will be removed from the lower abdomen, followed by precise transfer to the chest for the creation of the new breast mound. Delicate and meticulous microsurgery techniques require very small instruments. These will be utilized to connect blood vessels and attach the new blood supply from the relocated tissue to the chest. Our surgeon will then shape and contour the tissue to produce the most natural-looking breasts possible. Additionally, the abdominal skin is redraped to create a “flatter” appearance and a more defined contour in that area.

A DIEP Flap breast reconstruction procedure is performed under general anesthesia. It will require a short hospital stay.

What Is the DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Recovery Process Like?

While the specifics of recovery can vary among individual patients, it is important to note that most patients should expect a rest period of about two weeks after DIEP Flap breast reconstruction surgery. It may take approximately ten to twelve weeks of recovery before most normal daily routines can be resumed. Discomfort during the recovery process can typically be well-managed with medication. DIEP Flap breast reconstruction requires surgical incisions made in both the abdominal region and the breast areas, so there will be residual scarring in those areas following the procedure; however, these scars should fade to a certain extent over time. Our surgeon will provide detailed post-operative instructions and recommendations to help make this part of the process as safe and effective as possible.

DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction for Out-of-Town Patients

Our practice proudly cares for patients traveling from across Arkansas and neighboring states such as Missouri and Oklahoma, as well as from throughout the entire country. We understand that undergoing breast reconstruction away from home requires additional planning, and our team is experienced in helping out-of-town patients navigate the process with confidence.

From coordinating consultations and surgical scheduling to providing guidance on lodging and post-operative follow-up care, we strive to make the experience as seamless as possible. Many patients choose to travel to our practice specifically for advanced DIEP Flap breast reconstruction, knowing they will receive highly specialized care from a team dedicated to this complex procedure.

Virtual Consultations for DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction

For patients who live outside the immediate area or prefer to begin the process from home, virtual consultations are available. A virtual consult allows you to meet with one of our surgeons, discuss your medical history, explore reconstruction options, and determine whether DIEP Flap breast reconstruction may be right for you.

While an in-person visit is still required prior to surgery, virtual consultations offer a convenient first step—especially for out-of-town patients seeking expert guidance before traveling. Our team will walk you through the process and help you understand what to expect, so you can move forward feeling informed and supported.

If you are interested in scheduling a virtual consultation, please contact Sandi, our friendly Surgical Patient Care Coordinator, at [email protected]. Sandi can help with virtual consultation inquiries and will be happy to speak with you.

Additional Frequently Asked Questions About DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction

How long does DIEP Flap breast reconstruction surgery take?

DIEP Flap breast reconstruction is a detailed and carefully performed procedure, and it’s natural to feel concerned about the length of surgery. Because this operation involves transferring tissue and reconnecting tiny blood vessels, it often takes several hours. This time allows your surgical team to work with precision and care, focusing on both your safety and achieving results that look and feel as natural as possible.

Will my reconstruction be completed in one surgery, or will there be additional steps?

Breast reconstruction is a process, and for many patients it unfolds over time. The initial DIEP Flap procedure creates the foundation of the reconstructed breast, while additional procedures may be recommended later to refine shape, improve symmetry, or complete nipple reconstruction. These follow-up steps are typically smaller and thoughtfully timed, allowing your body to heal while you move closer to your final result.

What will the scars be like, and how will they change over time?

Scarring is a very real concern, and it’s completely understandable to worry about how your body will look after surgery. DIEP Flap reconstruction does involve incisions on the abdomen and breast, but these are carefully planned to be as discreet as possible. Over time, scars usually soften and fade. Your surgeon will guide you through scar care and healing, and many patients may find that, as their body heals, the scars become a reminder of resilience rather than loss.

Is DIEP Flap breast reconstruction an option if I’ve had radiation therapy?

Many patients who have undergone radiation therapy are still excellent candidates for DIEP Flap reconstruction. In fact, using your own healthy tissue may even help restore softness and comfort to areas affected by radiation. Your surgeon will carefully evaluate your treatment history and create a plan that prioritizes healing, safety, and long-term comfort.

Will my DIEP Flap reconstruction feel like a permanent solution?

For many individuals, one of the most reassuring aspects of DIEP Flap reconstruction is its durability. Because your own living tissue is used, the reconstructed breast becomes part of you and does not require routine replacement like implants. Over time, it can change naturally with your body, helping the results feel stable, lasting, and uniquely yours.

If you would like more information on DIEP Flap breast reconstruction or other breast reconstruction options available at our practice, or if you are ready to schedule a consultation, please contact us today.