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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 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?

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.

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. 

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. 

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. 

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