If you’re considering breast reconstruction, you may have heard about combining DIEP flap surgery with implants. This “hybrid” reconstruction approach uses both your own tissue and a small implant to achieve a fuller, more customized breast shape. But how does it work, and is it the right choice for you?
The DIEP flap procedure uses tissue from your abdomen to create a natural-looking breast. While many women are satisfied with the volume this provides, some may prefer more fullness than the tissue alone can offer. By adding an implant during or after the DIEP flap procedure, you can enhance your breast size and achieve your desired shape. However, there are some important precautions to consider with this hybrid procedure, so it is important to consult with your doctor before committing to a reconstruction option.
Can You Get Breast Implants After Diep Flap Breast Reconstruction?
When considering breast reconstruction options, there are many different procedures to navigate. Adding a breast implant right after a DIEP flap reconstruction can be an effective option for some breast reconstruction patients, but it is not suitable for everyone. The DIEP flap procedure is a delicate surgery where doctors reconnect blood vessels from the tissue (flap) to the chest. These blood vessels give the new breast the blood it needs to stay healthy.
Dr. Arishita from PRMA says, “The new breast is like a newborn baby—it needs to be treated very gently. If there’s too much pressure on the blood vessels, the new breast could fail.” Placing an implant under the DIEP flap too soon might squeeze the blood vessels and cause the whole reconstruction to fail.
That’s why PRMA suggests waiting at least three months before adding an implant. This gives the new breast time to heal and makes sure it’s strong enough to handle the extra pressure from an implant, helping everything go smoothly!
Risks of Hybrid Breast Reconstruction
Hybrid breast reconstruction is an exciting option for women looking to combine the best of both worlds—natural tissue and implants. This method uses your own tissue (like in a DIEP flap) along with a small implant to create a fuller, natural-looking result. While this approach offers some incredible benefits, understanding the risks involved will help you make an informed decision.
Implant-Related Complications
Even though a smaller implant is used in hybrid reconstruction, it still carries the typical risks associated with implants—capsular contracture (where scar tissue hardens around the implant), infection, or implant rupture over time. Because the implant is placed underneath the flap, these risks can be harder to detect early.
Vascular Complications
The DIEP flap relies on microsurgical techniques to transfer skin and fat tissue from the abdomen to the breast, requiring precise reconnection of blood vessels. If blood flow isn’t established successfully, there can be a risk of flap failure, leading to tissue necrosis or additional corrective surgeries. Hybrid reconstruction adds to the complexity since both implant and tissue must integrate well without compromising blood flow.
Increased Healing Time
Since hybrid reconstruction combines two techniques, your body may need more time to recover fully. Additionally, further surgeries to address complications or achieve the desired results are always possible.
How Long to Wait for Breast Implants After DIEP Flap
After undergoing a DIEP flap breast reconstruction, many women wonder if they can add implants right away for more volume or symmetry. While the idea of speeding up the process may sound appealing, it’s essential to give your body time to heal before moving forward with breast implants. So, how long should you wait?
Waiting three months gives your body time to fully heal and ensures the DIEP flap is strong enough to handle the additional stress of an implant. Once your board-certified surgeon confirms that everything is healthy, you can safely move forward with implants, if desired, to achieve your desired shape and volume.
This waiting period is crucial to achieving long-term success and the best possible results in your reconstruction journey. At PRMA, we’re committed to helping you through each step, ensuring that your breast reconstruction experience is both safe and satisfying. If you have any questions about adding implants after DIEP flap surgery, our team is here to guide you.
Am I a Candidate for DIEP Flap Surgery and Implant Reconstruction?
This DIEP Flap surgery could be right for you if:
- You don’t have enough tissue for the DIEP flap alone but still want the benefits of natural tissue reconstruction.
- You want to achieve more fullness or symmetry than what a DIEP flap alone can provide.
- You are in good overall health without conditions that could impair healing, such as uncontrolled diabetes or smoking.
- You have no prior abdominal surgeries that affect blood supply, which may limit eligibility.
You’re comfortable with the potential risks of both the DIEP flap and implants, including a slightly longer recovery time.
You are willing to adhere to post-operative care and attend follow-up appointments to monitor implant health.
Ready to Start Your Breast Reconstruction Journey? Schedule a Consultation Today!
If you’re considering breast reconstruction, PRMA is here to guide you through every step. Whether you’re exploring DIEP flap surgery, implants, or hybrid options, our expert team is ready to provide personalized care that fits your needs and goals. Take the first step toward reclaiming your confidence and feeling whole again.
Schedule your consultation with PRMA today, and let’s begin your journey together!
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Terri Coutee
Great information. This is frequently discussed in my closed Facebook group. I’ll share this with them. Thanks so much.