DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Sunshine Coast

Breast DIEP (deep inferior epigastric perforator) flap is a type of surgical breast reconstruction procedure. The procedure aims to restore a natural-looking breast after mastectomy by using tissue from the abdomen. During the surgery, the surgeon rebuilds the breast by taking skin and fat tissue from the abdomen and moving it to the chest, sculpting a natural breast shape.

This breast reconstruction procedure can help women who have had a mastectomy feel more comfortable and confident in their skin. Plastic surgeon Dr Fraser-Kirkis an expert in this type of reconstructive breast surgery. He takes an empathetic and patient-focused approach, helping patients through each step of their journey.

Dr Fraser-Kirk works very closely with your breast cancer surgeon to provide a gold standard of breast reconstruction on the Sunshine Coast.

What are the benefits of DIEP surgery?

For women who are seeking breast reconstruction after mastectomy, there are different surgical options. Breast reconstruction often requires flap surgery, which is when a piece or “flap” of tissue is removed from one area of the body and relocated to the chest.

DIEP is a type of flap surgery that takes only the skin and fat tissue from the abdomen, without the underlying muscle. One of the advantages of this method is that patients retain more strength in their abdomen after surgery. Other benefits of DIEP flap surgery include:

• Breasts can be reconstructed without synthetic implants
• Less risk of impaired function or weakness in the abdomen
• Less post-operative pain compared to other methods
• Quicker recovery time
• Mimics the look of a natural breast
• Improved body confidence

Your consultation

Each patient has different requirements, based on their body shape, past surgeries, and goals for their DIEP procedure. This means that we will need to consult with you prior to your surgery in order to gather the necessary information. Dr Fraser-Kirk will inquire about any past breast surgeries and your medical history, including any medications you are taking. You will also be able to discuss your concerns and what you hope to gain from your breast reconstruction. This will allow Dr Fraser-Kirk to determine whether you are suitable and develop an appropriate surgical plan that suits your needs. He will explain the process, risks, and what happens during recovery so that you are well prepared and know what to expect.

Breast DIEP procedure

Breast DIEP procedures are performed in a hospital with general anaesthesia and can take between five and eight hours to complete. Patients will be asleep during the procedure which means they will not feel any pain.

The surgeon begins by surgically removing a piece of skin and fat tissue from the abdomen, leaving the abdominal muscle in place. During this process, the muscles must be carefully separated from the blood vessels in order for the flap to be removed. The surgeon then moves this tissue up to the chest to sculpt a new breast shape, aiming to mimic the appearance of the other breast as closely as possible. The tissue is isolated on its blood supply and is then transferred to the area to be reconstructed. The vessels are then joined together using highly technical microsurgical skills. The vessels can sometimes measure less than a millimeter in diameter!

After the breast has been constructed, the tiny blood vessels in the flap will feed the tissue of your new breast.

Breast DIEP procedures often involve nipple reconstruction, depending on the patient and their goals. You can discuss whether nipple reconstruction techniques are required in your case during your consultation.

Recovery and aftercare

After your DIEP procedure, your surgical sites will be bandaged and you may have some swelling and tenderness. These mild side effects are normal and should subside gradually as your incision areas heal. We can help you manage any pain with pain relief and monitor your condition until you are able to return home.

During your home recovery, you will need to take care of both your reconstructed breast and donor site. Dr Fraser-Kirk will give you instructions on how to care for these areas and encourage optimal healing. In addition to getting plenty of rest, he may recommend that you:

• Rest on your back and prop your head on extra pillows
• Reduce your physical movement
• Wear a compression garment for several weeks
• Take medication prescribed by your surgeon
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet and drink water
• Do not smoke
• Avoid alcohol
• Consult Dr Fraser-Kirk if you experience complications

For the first few days, you may need to have a friend or family member help you with daily tasks such as driving, cooking, house chores, and lifting. Throughout the healing process, you can gradually resume more physical tasks, being careful to follow your surgeon’s advice and not over-exert yourself. You should not perform strenuous activities or vigorous exercise for at least six weeks post-surgery.

Risks and complications

Every surgery comes along with some risks, and DIEP procedures are no exception. While most patients have a successful recovery and are happy with their results, complications do occur in some cases. It is important to be aware of these so that you can make an educated decision. The potential complications of breast DIEP surgery include:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Large scars
• Slow healing
• Complications from anaesthesia
• Asymmetry or other aesthetic issues
• Changes in skin sensation or colour
• Fat necrosis
• Failure of the vessels supplying the reconstruction

Contact us if you notice any severe symptoms such as excessive bleeding, discharge from the incision site, fever, or severe pain, as you may require further treatment. Following your surgeon’s instructions will help minimise your risk of complications and encourage a smooth recovery.

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