Microsurgical breast reconstruction is an opportunity in breast cancer treatment that allows a woman to use her own tissue to reconstruct what was taken away. It doesn’t matter if your cancer treatment was this year or 10 years ago, there are options for you. There is no vanity here. We are here to help women reclaim ownership of their bodies— offering a renewed sense of self and femininity that every woman deserves.
Implant based breast reconstruction is an alternative with a lower upfront commitment to time and recovery but does require replacement of implants every 8-10 years. Implants after a mastectomy can have higher risk of capsular contracture, malpositioning, or pain involved due to the lack of soft tissue envelope covering the implant. This risk is elevated in the presence of radiation treatment history. This risk is different than implant results after cosmetic breast augmentation. Autologous or DIEP FLAP breast reconstruction requires more commitment to time and recovery up front but generally has no further surgery or very minor requirements after the initial surgery.
A Natural Autologous Tissue Based Approach To Breast Reconstruction
For women undergoing a mastectomy, breast reconstruction can be an important part of the healing process. Among the most advanced and natural-looking options available today is DIEP flap breast reconstruction. This microsurgical technique uses your own tissue—not implants—to rebuild the breast with long-lasting, beautiful results.
Dr. Suma Maddox specializes in this highly skilled procedure. If you’re exploring your reconstruction options, here’s what you should know.
What Is A DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction?
The DIEP flap (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator flap) uses skin and fat from the lower abdomen—the same area targeted in a tummy tuck—to recreate the breast mound. What makes the DIEP technique unique is that it preserves the abdominal muscles, unlike older flap methods such as the TRAM flap.
This surgery is performed using microsurgical techniques to reconnect tiny blood vessels from the transferred tissue to blood vessels in the chest. The result is a soft, natural breast that’s entirely your own tissue—no implants required.
Who Is A Candidate?
DIEP flap reconstruction may be a great option for:
- – Women undergoing mastectomy for breast cancer or risk-reducing surgery
- – Those who prefer a natural alternative to implants
- – Patients with enough lower abdominal tissue for transfer
If you’ve had previous abdominal surgery (like C-sections or hernia repair), you may still be a candidate. We’ll assess your anatomy and medical history during your consultation.
What The Surgery And Recovery Involve?
DIEP flap reconstruction is usually performed under general anesthesia and may be done immediately after mastectomy or delayed until after other treatments are completed.
What To Expect:
- – The lower abdominal flap is carefully harvested, preserving muscles using magnification.
- – Blood vessels are reconnected under a microscope in the chest
- – The flap is shaped to create a natural breast mound
- – The abdomen is closed with a contouring effect similar to a tummy tuck | abdominoplasty
Recovery:
- – Pain medication consists of muscle relaxer, anti-inflammatory, and a touch of narcotics. A long acting bupivicaine (EXPAREL) is injected in all of the surgical sites during surgery and provides 2-3 days of pain relief.
- – Hospital stay: 1 to 3 days
- – Downtime: Most patients return to daily activities within 4–6 weeks
- – Scars: Hidden along the lower abdomen and around the reconstructed breast
Most importantly, you retain core strength and function since the abdominal muscles are left intact.
Why Choose A Board Certified Plastic Surgeon With Microsurgical Expertise?
DIEP flap surgery is one of the most technically demanding procedures in plastic & reconstructive surgery. It requires extensive training in microsurgery, as well as a deep understanding of reconstructive anatomy. There are alternatives to the Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery as an option for performing this surgery (SGAP, TDAP, PAP). An experienced reconstructive breast surgeon will be able to provide all possible alternatives after a careful evaluation of your medical history. Some patients require “Stacked flaps,” which combine 2 flaps using microsurgery, to restore their native breast volume. This involves a higher level of expertise and should be performed by expert microsurgeons.
Our surgeons are board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, and we’ve performed numerous successful DIEP flap procedures and are committed to:
- – Tailoring your reconstruction to your unique anatomy and goals
- – Minimizing complications and optimizing results
- – Coordinating care with your oncologic team for seamless treatment
Ready To Learn More?
If you’re considering breast reconstruction and want to explore the DIEP flap option, we invite you to schedule a consultation. We’ll take the time to explain your options, evaluate your candidacy, and answer all your questions.
