Breast reconstruction is an essential part of the recovery process for many women who have undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy due to breast cancer or other conditions. One of the most advanced and popular techniques for breast reconstruction is DIEP flap surgery. In this blog post, we will discuss what DIEP flap surgery is, how the procedure works, and the benefits of choosing this reconstructive method.
What is DIEP Flap Surgery?
DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) flap surgery is a type of breast reconstruction that uses the patient's own tissue, specifically from the lower abdomen, to recreate a natural-looking breast. This procedure is a microsurgical technique, meaning that it involves the use of a microscope to connect small blood vessels from the abdominal tissue to the blood vessels in the chest area.
The DIEP flap surgery is a more advanced alternative to the traditional TRAM (Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous) flap surgery, as it spares the rectus abdominis muscle, preserving the patient's core strength and reducing the risk of complications.
The DIEP Flap Surgery Procedure
The DIEP flap surgery is typically performed in several stages. Here is an overview of the procedure:
• Preparation: Prior to surgery, the patient will undergo a thorough evaluation, including medical imaging, to determine the suitability of the procedure and the location of the blood vessels in the abdominal tissue.
• Surgery: During the procedure, the surgeon will remove a section of skin, fat, and blood vessels from the lower abdomen, carefully preserving the rectus abdominis muscle. This tissue, known as the "flap," will then be transplanted to the chest area.
• Microsurgery: The surgeon will use a microscope to connect the blood vessels from the flap to the blood vessels in the chest. This process, called microvascular anastomosis, ensures that the transplanted tissue receives adequate blood supply.
• Breast Shaping: Once the blood vessels are connected, the surgeon will shape the flap into a natural-looking breast mound. The incisions will then be closed, and the patient will be taken to the recovery area.
• Recovery: The recovery period for DIEP flap surgery varies depending on the individual patient. However, most patients can expect to spend several days in the hospital and several weeks recovering at home. During this time, the patient will receive pain management and follow-up care to ensure proper healing and monitor for any complications.
Benefits of DIEP Flap Surgery
There are several benefits to choosing DIEP flap surgery for breast reconstruction, including:
1. Natural-Looking Results: Because the procedure uses the patient's own tissue, the reconstructed breast has a more natural appearance and feel compared to implants.
2. Preservation of Muscle: Unlike the traditional TRAM flap surgery, the DIEP flap surgery spares the rectus abdominis muscle, resulting in less postoperative pain, faster recovery, and a reduced risk of complications such as hernia or abdominal bulging.
3. Additional Benefits: Many patients find that the removal of excess abdominal tissue provides an added benefit, as it results in a flatter, more contoured abdomen, similar to the results of a tummy tuck.
In Conclusion
DIEP flap surgery is an advanced and effective option for breast reconstruction that offers several benefits over traditional techniques. By using the patient's own tissue and preserving the abdominal muscle, this procedure provides natural-looking results while minimizing the risk of complications and promoting a faster recovery.
The Institute of Advanced Reconstruction, based in New Jersey, is renowned for its expertise in DIEP flap surgery. Their Double Board Certified breast surgeons have extensive experience in performing DIEP flap surgery along with a wide variety of other autologous surgeries. Combined with implants, the DIEP flap procedure can provide the beautiful results you desire.
To learn more about the Institute of Advanced Reconstruction and their world-class expertise in DIEP flap surgery, visit their website at https://www.advancedreconstruction.com/.
