Over the years, implant-based breast reconstruction has become a common choice following mastectomy. Yet, more and more women are seeking alternatives that better align with their long-term health, body confidence, and lifestyle goals. For many, that means turning to natural tissue reconstruction—specifically, the DIEP flap procedure. The DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) flap procedure uses […]
Implant-based breast reconstruction is the most commonly performed method of reconstruction in the US. For most patients, it’s a multiple-step procedure that starts with tissue expanders. These medical devices are placed beneath the skin and chest muscle to gradually create space for a future breast implant. While they may seem simple on the surface, understanding […]
When researching breast reconstruction options—especially those involving the abdomen—it’s easy to stumble upon terms like “DIEP flap” and “tummy tuck” and wonder: aren’t they kind of the same thing? It’s a common question, and a completely understandable one. After all, both procedures involve removing skin and fat from the lower belly. But while they may […]
After a mastectomy, a person may choose not to undergo immediate breast reconstruction for several reasons. From personal choice or lack of access to a plastic surgeon, to limited knowledge or the presence of other medical conditions, for some, immediate breast reconstruction just isn’t an option. Fortunately, breast reconstruction doesn’t have to be performed […]
For many women navigating a breast cancer diagnosis, the path to healing includes deeply personal decisions—especially when it comes to breast reconstruction. One increasingly important step in that journey is genetic testing. Genetic testing doesn’t just inform your cancer risk—it can also guide conversations around timing, surgical technique, and whether a DIEP flap reconstruction is […]
Learn if DIEP flap breast reconstruction impacts cancer recurrence detection. Explore risks, monitoring, and PRMA’s approach to ongoing breast cancer care.
After going through a DIEP flap breast reconstruction, noticing a sense of tightness across your abdomen can be unexpected—and, for many women, understandably concerning. The DIEP flap procedure uses your own lower abdominal skin and fat (not muscle) to create a natural-looking breast after mastectomy. If you’re experiencing abdominal tightness after a DIEP flap surgery, […]
Learn about microsurgical breast reconstruction using perforator flaps like DIEP, SIEA, and GAP—natural, muscle-sparing options offered at PRMA.
The two most common questions among breast cancer patients considering breast reconstruction are “how much does breast reconstruction cost?” and “will my insurance cover it?” The good news is that even though plastic surgeons perform breast reconstruction, it is not considered cosmetic surgery. The bad news is that even though insurance covers breast reconstruction, there […]
Choosing the right post-breast surgery bras and abdominal girdles can make a big difference in how you feel after breast reconstruction surgery. Supportive garments not only help shape and protect healing tissue, but they can also provide much-needed comfort during recovery. “The goal is to optimize healing, reduce complications, and help patients feel secure and […]
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