I began to look for options for reconstruction. I wanted reconstruction but due to the radiation treatments, I had few options. Only tissue transfer would work and I have a bleeding disorder. Most surgeons that I met with did not want to take the risk. I needed experts, but had become too tired to keep searching.
After an unsuccessful lumpectomy, I was told the dreaded news, you need to have a mastectomy on the right breast. The thought of removing my breast was devastating! I quickly “googled” everything I could on breast cancer and reconstruction.
That’s when I heard about another procedure called the DIEP flap. That stands for Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator. In this procedure very little – if any – muscle is removed. The perforating vessels, along with the overlying flesh, are removed – but the muscle is left in place. The recovery time is quicker, but the surgery is much more involved, and it takes a microsurgery expert to perform it.
For me, arriving at the decision to do a DIEP flap reconstruction was simple. The key was finding the perfect surgeon for the task.
Some people think I was crazy for flying all the way from Virginia to Texas for my breast reconstruction.
On September 4, 2012, I underwent the DIEP Flap reconstruction. The results are better than I’d expected. I feel good about myself, especially knowing that it’s all me. No artificial implants. I like to say that PRMA gave me back what Cancer stole from me.
So here I am, post surgery and all is looking good. I am thankful to PRMA, because you gave me a choice. I can now have the body I want and I’ve been trying to get that word out not only about DIEP flap but also about PRMA. PRMA has the training and expertise to help women have the choice as to what type of reconstruction they want. I think that is important when all of us facing these options did not have a choice in getting cancer.
Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin Patient Reviews S. East January 2023 Fantastic experience. Dr. Ledoux and staff are the best. We were able to quickly schedule a double mastectomy, and my wife looks just as perfect and beautiful after surgery as she did before. Skilled surgeons, excellent communication, great bedside manner, and support. Miracle November […]
In the twenty-five plus years Dr. Pisano has been in private practice, he has amassed a tremendous experience in autologous tissue reconstruction, participating in over 3000 breast reconstruction procedures.
Preparing for your consultation Insurance Coverage For Breast Reconstruction One of the most common questions among breast cancer patients is, Will my health insurance cover breast reconstruction? In the vast majority of cases the answer is YES. While insurance coverage varies on a patient by patient basis, there are some things that are pretty standard. […]
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