What Is DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Surgery

To perform a breast reconstruction procedure without using breast implants, there is an advanced method available called DIEP flap reconstruction.

DIEP flap surgery uses tissue from the patient’s own body to create a reconstructed breast. This involves taking skin, fat, and blood vessels from the lower abdomen while preserving the abdominal muscles.

If you have had a mastectomy and are interested in learning about breast reconstruction options, read on to learn about this particular method, what is involved and if it may be the right choice for you.

How does the DIEP flap breast reconstruction method work?

DIEP stands for deep inferior epigastric perforator, which refers to the blood vessels in the lower abdomen that are used during the procedure.

The method involves removing skin and fat from the lower abdomen while leaving the muscles intact. Since the abdominal muscles remain untouched, there is typically less risk of muscle weakness compared to older techniques.

The tissue is then transferred to the chest, where it is carefully shaped and connected to blood vessels in the chest using microsurgery techniques. The procedure requires a high level of precision due to the need for microsurgical techniques to ensure that the transferred tissue receives an adequate blood supply.

Who is a suitable candidate for DIEP flap breast reconstruction?

Not everyone is suitable for DIEP flap surgery, as the procedure requires a sufficient amount of lower abdominal tissue. Those who have had previous abdominal surgery, such as an abdominoplasty, may not have the necessary blood vessels intact for the procedure to be successful.

A surgeon will need to assess factors such as body type, medical history, and overall health to determine whether DIEP flap reconstruction is an option. Some patients may be better suited to other forms of breast reconstruction, such as alternative flap techniques or a reconstruction with breast implants.

How the procedure is performed

The DIEP flap reconstruction procedure is performed under general anaesthesia and can take up to five or eight hours to perform.

During the surgery, the lower abdominal tissue is removed and prepared for transfer to the chest, where it is connected to blood vessels using microsurgery.

Once the transferred tissue has been successfully reattached and shaped, the incisions are closed, and bandages are applied. Since the procedure involves two surgical sites (the chest and the abdomen), patients will have incisions in both areas.

After you have been monitored in recovery following your procedure, your surgeon will clear you to return home once you are ready to complete your recovery at home.

Recovery after DIEP flap reconstruction

During your recovery, you’ll need to take it easy when it comes to physical activity, making sure that you slowly resume your normal activities as you heal. You’ll need to reduce your activity to just light walking, and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities.

Swelling, bruising and tenderness in both the chest and abdomen will be normal, but should get better the more your body heals. When you rest, it’s a good idea to rest on your back and keep your head slightly elevated. Avoiding putting pressure on the chest area can help to avoid some possible complications, such as delayed incision healing.

Taking medication that your surgeon prescribes and wearing a compression garment will also help you maintain your comfort levels and reduce swelling faster. Your surgeon will let you know how often to take your medication and how long to wear your garment.

Eating a healthy and balanced diet, as well as staying hydrated, will also be helpful during recovery. It’s important to avoid smoking, as it can delay healing, and avoid alcohol, as it may interfere with your prescribed medications.

After your consultation process, you should have a clearer idea of what your recovery will involve and the steps you’ll need to follow.

Long-term results and secondary procedures

The results of DIEP flap breast reconstruction are typically long-lasting, since the procedure uses the body’s own tissue.

After the procedure, some patients may require additional procedures to make further adjustments to the shape of the reconstructed breast, or to reconstruct the nipple. These adjustments can be performed months after the initial surgery, once healing is complete.

Since the abdominal tissue is used to create the breast, patients will also notice a change in their lower abdomen, which may sometimes be similar to the effect of an abdominoplasty – but this will depend on how the procedure was performed and how much tissue was removed from the area.

Choosing a surgeon for DIEP flap breast reconstruction

Since DIEP flap reconstruction is a specialised microsurgical procedure, it is important to choose a surgeon with experience in this technique.

The complexity of reconnecting blood vessels requires a high level of skill, so selecting a surgeon with extensive training in breast reconstruction will be an important first step.

Based on the Sunshine Coast, Dr Fraser-Kirk is a Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon who has years of training and experience within the field of reconstructive procedures.

Schedule your consultation with Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Grant Fraser-Kirk

If you want to talk through your breast reconstruction options, we recommend having a consultation with an experienced surgeon who will take an empathetic, supportive and understanding approach.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Grant Fraser-Kirk performs a variety of complex procedures on different areas of the body. He uses refined techniques to perform procedures, tailoring the results to suit each patient.

If a DIEP flap breast reconstruction is right for you, he can outline what your procedure plan may look like. On the other hand, if other options (such as using breast implants or using another technique) may be more suitable, you’ll also be able to discuss these options in more detail.

If you feel ready to arrange your consultation on the Sunshine Coast, please feel free to contact our team so that we can guide you through the process. You may also contact us with any questions you have about the procedure, your options or Dr Fraser-Kirk.