What Is the DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Process?

The DIEP flap breast reconstruction process allows surgeons to create natural feeling and moving tissue in the breasts after a mastectomy. Unlike other procedures, in this one, the tissues feel and react normally to movement and sensation. Because the tissues are living and healthy, unlike traditional implants, they feel natural. This can give a woman more of a normal contour and shape while also reducing the constant reminder of the traumatic situation she was in.

What is It?

In DIEP flap breast reconstruction, the surgeon will use very precise steps to help create the new breasts. This procedure is one of the most advanced. It stands for Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforators. With precision, the surgeon will create a flap of skin that includes excess fat, skin and blood vessels. This comes from the lower abdominal region of the woman's body. Keep in mind that this procedure does not remove the muscle tissue in this region. As such, the woman's shape remains natural and her overall abdominal contouring improves. In fact, the procedure ends up being significantly like the tummy tuck abdominal procedure many women have to reduce the amount of excessive fatty tissues in this region.

Why Do It?

The DIEP flap breast reconstruction process is invasive. It does require major surgery. there are risks to it as there are to any other type of procedure. However, there are some key advantages of this procedure over others. Consider the following:

- The transplanted tissues are not from a donor but from the woman's body. This reduces the risk of rejection or inflammation.

- The muscles of the abdomen remain intact. This means there is no lessened use or shape to this area.

- The procedure creates the most normal looking breasts. This is perhaps what many women are aiming for because it gives them back their sense of self.

- You can have it at the same time as having the mastectomy or you can do it at a later time.

- For women who struggle to lose weight in the abdominal area, this procedure can help to shave off some of that excessive fatty tissue, giving the flatter shape.

There is no doubt that the process of having DIEP flap breast reconstruction is a big decision to make. One of the most important decisions you will have to make is which surgeon to work with for this procedure. Because it takes micro precision, it is often best to work with a provider with extensive experience with this surgery and who has the proof of doing it well. It also is important to consider the long-term benefits of the mastectomy and restoring your body's shape afterward. For many women, this is critical to well-being.