This week I had the absolute privilege of joining the Anti-Cancer Club along with one of our sweet patients Terri Coutee for a video chat on DIEP flap breast reconstruction. The goal of the chat was to help spread education on the procedure in an informal setting. It was so wonderful to be able to chat with gals from all over the nation just as if I were talking with some of my closest friends about the surgery.
It’s always an honor to have to opportunity to spread the word on this incredible option for breast reconstruction. The DIEP flap is the most advanced form of breast reconstruction available today because unlike the TRAM flap, it completely preserves the patient’s muscles.
The skin and fat below the belly button feels very similar to breast tissue. It is the perfect choice to replace the breast tissue removed by the mastectomy.
The blood vessels (“perforators”) that keep this skin and fat alive lie just beneath or within the abdominal muscle. A small incision is made in the abdominal muscle to access these vessels. The prepared tissue (“flap”) is then disconnected from the body and transplanted to the chest using microsurgery. The surgeons then shape the tissue to create the new breast.
Women also enjoy the added benefit of a flatter abdomen with results that mimic a “tummy tuck”. The risk of abdominal complications such as bulging and hernia is also very small, much smaller than with the TRAM flap which sacrifices abdominal muscle.
Most patients are also candidates for sensory nerve reconstruction. This reconstructs the nerves that supply feeling and allows for improved long term sensation in the reconstructed breast.
If you missed out on our chat, no worries! You can view it below!
If you have questions or would like to schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons you can give us a call at 800.692.5565 or email at patientadvocate@prmaplasticsurgery.com.
The goal of the chat was to help spread education on the procedure in an informal setting. It was so wonderful to be able to chat with gals from all over the nation just as if I were talking with some of my closest friends about the surgery.
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Anti-Cancer Club DIEP Flap Chat Recap
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