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Deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction is an advanced procedure performed only by the most experienced surgeons. We are proud to offer this hybrid autologous implant-based breast reconstruction to give patients the results they desire.
Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery
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Conditions Treated
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Procedure Time
6-12 Hours
Treatment Location
In-Clinic
Sedation
General Anesthesia
Recovery Time
3 to 6+ Months
What is DIEP Flap Reconstruction Surgery?
Deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction surgery is a breast reconstruction procedure that uses autologous tissue, donated from your own body, to recreate the breast shape for more natural results. For a DIEP flap, we take skin, fat and blood vessels from the lower abdomen and reconnect them at the mastectomy site using microsurgical techniques. In a combined reconstruction, this “flap” of tissue and fat is used in conjunction with an implant to construct a natural-looking breast shape.
The abdomen is an ideal location for obtaining tissue for breast reconstruction, and the deep inferior epigastric perforator is a preferred donation site for many surgeons. This area provides tissue that is soft and moldable, making it suitable for use in unilateral or bilateral breast reconstruction. DIEP flap surgery has the added advantage of sparing the abdominal wall muscle, which reduces the rate of postoperative hernia.
What are the Benefits of DIEP Flap Surgery?
DIEP flap surgery is one of the most ground-breaking techniques we use at The Institute for Advanced Reconstruction. It offers a range of benefits for women who decide on breast reconstruction surgery. Some of the advantages of DIEP flap surgery with implants are:
- Natural breast shape and appearance
- Flatter abdomen thanks to a tummy tuck
- Lower risk of abdominal hernia since no muscles are cut
- Minimal loss of muscle function
- Quicker recovery compared to TRAM flap procedures
What Should I Expect After DIEP Flap Surgery?
Recovery After Surgery
Remember that your body will be healing in two separate places—your reconstructed breasts and the site of the donor tissue. Recovery time from DIEP flap surgery is generally around 6-8 weeks, at which point most people can resume normal activity.
How Painful is DIEP Flap Surgery?
You may feel tired and sore for several weeks following your DIEP flap, as you would with any abdominal surgery. The good news is that DIEP flap tends to be less painful than other types of abdominal surgeries since it doesn’t involve moving or cutting muscle. It may be difficult to sit down or stand up from a sitting position, and getting in and out of bed will likely be painful at first. Be patient with your recovery, and be sure to slow down and rest if you experience pain.
What to Wear After Surgery
After DIEP flap surgery, you will want to wear comfortable clothing that is loose-fitting so it doesn’t irritate your incisions. Clothes that are easy to get on and off are ideal. You may be asked to wear a compression garment or girdle to support your abdomen. For your breasts, we recommend a surgical bra immediately after surgery, followed by a comfortable support bra as you continue to heal.
Will I Have a Scar?
The incision for DIEP flap surgery runs from hip to hip along the bikini line, and it will leave a mark that is similar to a tummy tuck scar. It could take up to a year for your scars to fade and the tissue to completely heal. It is important to follow your doctor’s care recommendations to ensure the best results.
How Does DIEP Flap Surgery Pair with Implant-Based Reconstruction?
For some women, flap surgery alone may not provide enough tissue to adequately reshape the breast. In these cases, we recommend utilizing implants with an autologous procedure, most often DIEP flap surgery or latissimus dorsi flap surgery.
Post mastectomy, your surgeon will place a tissue expander in a pocket created under your chest wall muscle. The tissue expander is a temporary device that serves to expand the overlying tissue over time to fit a breast implant. Made of a silicone shell, the tissue expander is filled with saline each week or two to slowly stretch the skin and tissue to the desired volume, a process that usually takes one to two months. Once the tissue is ready, the expander will be exchanged for a breast implant.
Implants come in many shapes and sizes and are filled with either saline or silicone gel. You and your surgeon will discuss the right option for you.
In combined autologous and implant reconstruction, the implant will be placed at the time of the DIEP reconstruction.
Am I a candidate?
Combined autologous and implant reconstruction is ideal for women who may not have enough tissue to reach their desired breast volume through flap surgery alone. A combined approach may also appeal to women who want to lessen the risk of implant-related complications. This technique has the additional advantage of minimizing the appearance of the implant beneath the skin.
Find a DIEP Flap Surgeon in New Jersey
The Breast Center of New Jersey has locations all over the nation with expert surgeons ready to help you.