If you are ready for a consultation about your breast reconstruction options, call 734-998-6022 to schedule an appointment with one of our plastic surgeons.

An incision is made in the lower abdomen, spanning from hip to hip, from which your surgeon will remove a section of skin, fatty tissue and blood vessels that will be used to reconstruct the breast. The abdominal incision is closed by pulling down the abdomen skin, and the belly button is positioned to naturally fit the improved contour of the abdomen. 

Using a microscope, the blood vessels in the flap are then connected to vessels in the chest found within the mastectomy site. This connection allows the flap to thrive as a healthy and functioning part of the new breast. DIEP flaps can also be performed on both breasts, known as a bilateral reconstruction, using a single donor site if you’ve undergone a double mastectomy. Since these flaps require the use of abdominal tissue, women with very low body fat may be better candidates for other flap procedures.

Since DIEP flap reconstruction uses your natural tissue, the reconstructed breast will be able to change alongside your natural breast, like during weight changes. As a free flap reconstruction, surgeons can shape the flap and outcomes tend to be more in line with your specific goals. 

You will have a scar across your abdomen, around the bellow button and on the reconstructed breast. Many patients have procedures following DIEP flap that include shaping of the reconstructed breasts, breast lifts or reductions of their natural breast and nipple reconstructions to achieve the best symmetry possible.

Recovery

After surgery, you will remain under close observation for three to five days so that your surgical team can closely monitor blood flow to the newly constructed breast and ensure that the flap is healthy. 

Drains placed in the breast and donor area of the abdomen stay in place for two to three weeks while the patient recovers at home, and are taken out during an office visit. Within four weeks, patients may return to driving, some work (depending on job requirements) and light exercise. Most patients are back to their regular routines and full activities in six weeks. Because DIEP flap preserves the muscle wall, most patients are able to return to their normal exercise and activities after recovery.

DIEP flap reconstruction surgery can work well for many patients, but as with any surgery, there are some risks. There is some potential for partial flap loss or flap death caused by a lack of blood flow to the flap.

Your surgeon will be able to discuss any potential risks and concerns you may have related to your body type, health, lifestyle and personal reconstruction goals.