DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction for Natural Looking Results
Women who have had a mastectomy or those with congenital breast abnormalities can achieve a natural looking outcome with DIEP flap breast reconstruction. This procedure corrects loss of volume and asymmetry after a mastectomy. For optimal results, it is crucial that the surgery is performed by a plastic surgeon with experience in this reconstructive procedure. DIEP Flap Surgery
In the DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery Perforator) flap technique, skin and tissue is taken from the abdomen in order to recreate the breast. No muscle is touched. The surgeon first performs a CT scan to identify the blood sources located in the abdominal tissue. This helps determine whether the blood vessels required for the surgery are intact and can be used. Obviously, this surgery is an ideal option for women who have enough abdominal fat tissue to create a breast. After the patient is administered general anesthesia, the surgeon makes an incision in the lower abdominal region to remove a flap of skin which contains tiny blood vessels, skin and subcutaneous tissue. This flap is transferred to the chest, attached to the blood vessels there using microsurgery and molded to recreate the breast mounds.
The next step is the recreation of the nipple and areola to result in a natural looking breast. As this surgery does not involve any removal of abdominal muscle, abdominal strength is preserved, which reduces the risk of hernia. The removal of fatty tissue from the abdominal area offers a tummy tuck effect. DIEP flap can also be done in phases, over a period of time. This is often recommended for women who might need post-mastectomy radiation therapy. In the staged procedure, a tissue expander is placed at the time of mastectomy and the flap reconstruction is done a few months later.
The DIEP flap technique offers many benefits:
Long-lasting results
Avoids implant-related complications
Preservation of abdominal strength
Natural looking breasts
Provides the benefits of a tummy tuck
Less post-surgical pain
Faster recovery
Improved self-esteem
Having breast reconstruction surgery is a personal decision. Reliable surgeons will discuss all the pros and cons of the treatment to help patients take an informed decision. For better results and minimal complications, make sure that the surgeon is specialized in microsurgery. Only a surgeon with vast experience in reconstructive plastic surgery can provide optimal results for DIEP flap breast reconstruction. In Houston, there are skilled plastic surgeons in AAAASF-accredited plastic surgery centers who are experts in this procedure and can provide the desired results.
Contact Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery 6400 Fannin Suite 2290 Houston, TX 77030 Telephone: 713-791-0700