Autologous DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction

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any women consider breasts an important aspect of femininity. When a breast must be removed to treat a cancer or other medical condition, the patient may want it reconstructed with a technique providing the most natural look and feel possible. Centers for Neurosurgery, Spine & Orthopedics (CNSO) serves northern New Jersey with cutting-edge breast reconstruction and other types of breast surgery, along with other medical specialties. The CNSO medical team includes a leading plastic surgeon who is proficient in DIEP flap reconstruction to help patients regain their self-confidence after cancer.

What Is DIEP Flap Autologous Breast Reconstruction?

Breast reconstruction is a plastic surgery procedure that rebuilds a patient’s breast that has been damaged or removed. The deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction is a form of autologous tissue breast reconstruction. This means that, instead of using an artificial implant, the reconstruction is performed using tissue taken from the abdominal portion of the patient’s body.

This is a more complex procedure than traditional breast construction using implants, requiring longer operating times and a longer recovery. Its results, however, may look and feel more natural. Many patients feel that this outcome is worth the extended healing period. It is a valuable option for women recovering from breast cancer surgery, or mastectomy, allowing them to restore a normal, natural look. This not only improves aesthetics, but it can also boost self-esteem and lead to a more positive body image.

DIEP Flap Reconstruction Procedure

The DIEP flap breast reconstruction usually takes between six to eight hours to complete. During this time, the patient remains under the effects of general anesthesia. This means they are asleep through the procedure.

The plastic surgeon at CNSO, Dr. Hakan Kutlu, begins by cutting a section of tissue called a “flap” from the patient’s abdomen or belly region. The flap includes the skin, attached underlying fat and blood vessels that feed the tissues, but leaves underlying muscles intact. This muscle-sparing technique maintains abdominal wall integrity. The surgeon then closes the resulting defect much as is done in a “tummy tuck” procedure.

After harvesting the flap, Dr. Kutlu uses microsurgery to attach its blood vessels to those located in the chest at the site of the former breast. This ensures a consistent blood supply to keep the new breast tissue alive. Once the breast has been connected to blood flow, Dr. Kutlu may reshape it to match the other breast. In some cases, an implant may also be used to achieve larger breast sizes.

DIEP Flap Reconstruction Recovery and Effects

DIEP flap surgery requires a hospital stay of about 3-5 days. This allows physicians to monitor the patient’s condition and prevent any complications. After going home from the hospital, recovery can take six to eight weeks. It may be difficult to sit down or stand up from a sitting position or to get in or out of bed. Physical therapy can help patients learn how to move while they heal.

Patients in recovery should follow all the surgical team’s instructions to ensure a successful recovery. These instructions include:

• How to keep incision sites clean
• Medications to prevent pain or infection
• Wearing a surgical support bra and abdominal binder
• When to start walking and stretching exercises
• When to resume regular daily activities
• When to schedule a follow-up appointment

Patients will notice an immediate improvement in their breast appearance after surgery. They may experience some swelling and bruising that will begin to fade after a few weeks. In addition, the skin over the belly may feel tighter than normal. This sensation will also go away after a few weeks. There will be scarring on the breast and abdomen that is permanent, but will begin to lessen after a few months and continue to fade over the course of months or years.

Receive DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Surgery Near You in New Jersey

The long-lasting visual effects of mastectomy can be discouraging. Fortunately, DIEP flap autologous breast reconstruction is available to restore patients’ looks and self-confidence. This and other innovative procedures are available at Centers for Neurosurgery, Spine & Orthopedics. CNSO services are offered from five convenient locations across northern New Jersey, including Jersey City, Morristown, Paramus, Wayne, and West Orange, NJ. To learn more about CNSO breast reconstruction and plastic surgery treatments, contact CNSO today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Breast Reconstruction

What are the benefits and downsides of DIEP flap reconstruction vs. implants?

DIEP flap reconstruction creates a more natural look and feel than traditional reconstruction using implants. In addition, DIEP flap reconstruction is permanent, unlike implants, which must be replaced after a number of years. However, DIEP flap reconstruction is a more complex procedure than traditional reconstruction. It requires a longer operation, hospital stay, and recovery, as well as being performed by surgeons specially experienced and trained in this technique.

Can surgeons treat both breasts simultaneously?

If a patient has had a single mastectomy, only one breast needs to be reconstructed for a natural look. Depending on the shape and size of the patient’s breasts, however, it may be difficult to match them perfectly. If this is the case, Dr. Kutlu may recommend a breast augmentation or a breast lift on the opposite breast. Both surgeries can be performed simultaneously to reduce costs while ensuring the best possible match. If both breasts have been removed during a double mastectomy, the reconstruction process can be completed at the same time.

Does breast reconstruction interfere with breastfeeding?

A reconstructed breast lacks the glands necessary for milk production, so breastfeeding is not possible.

How do breasts look and feel after reconstruction surgery?

DIEP flap surgery delivers the most natural-looking and feeling results possible for reconstruction. However, the reconstructed breast will lack the sensation of the patient’s original native breast.

Will insurance cover breast reconstruction?

Insurance companies in the state of New Jersey are mandated to provide coverage for breast reconstruction surgeries – it is best to check with your own individual plan.

Who is a good candidate for DIEP flap reconstruction?

The appropriate candidate for this type of surgery must meet several criteria:

• They must have adequate donor abdominal tissue to create an appropriately sized breast(s)
• They must be healthy enough to undergo the extended anesthesia and recovery period
• A history of previous abdominal surgery may disqualify the patient
• Active smokers or people with vascular disease are poor candidates