For women considering or undergoing DIEP flap breast reconstruction, one of the most natural concerns is the fear of breast cancer coming back. After everything they’ve faced—diagnosis, treatment, surgery—the last thing anyone wants is to wonder if a reconstruction procedure might obscure the early signs of recurrence, even years down the road.
The good news is that DIEP flap reconstruction does not hide or prevent the detection of breast cancer recurrence. In fact, this advanced, natural tissue reconstruction approach is designed to restore not just form, but also peace of mind.
Of course, understanding how recurrence can be monitored after reconstruction—and knowing that early detection remains possible—is essential for making an informed, confident decision about your reconstruction journey.
Understanding DIEP Flap Reconstruction
DIEP flap surgery is a cutting-edge technique that uses a woman’s own tissue—specifically skin and fat from the lower abdomen—to create a natural-looking breast after mastectomy. Unlike older reconstruction methods that sacrifice muscle (like the TRAM flap), the DIEP flap preserves abdominal muscles entirely. This means a quicker recovery and a lower risk of long-term weakness or hernias.
PRMA’s High Def DIEP® technique takes this procedure further, offering enhanced sculpting and aesthetic precision. Compared to other flap options like the SIEA flap (which uses similar tissue but different blood vessels) or PAP flap (which uses tissue from the upper thigh), DIEP flap reconstruction offers a balance of reliable blood supply, natural shape, and the added benefit of an abdominal contour similar to a tummy tuck.
What Happens to Breast Tissue After DIEP Flap Surgery?
During DIEP flap surgery, all remaining breast tissue that may be at risk for cancer is typically removed during the mastectomy. The breast mound is then reconstructed using skin and fat from the abdomen, not using any remaining breast tissue.
The DIEP Flap approach not only creates a natural-looking breast but also helps reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. The reconstructed breast consists entirely of transferred tissue, which is carefully shaped and connected to blood vessels in the chest for a healthy, long-lasting result.
Is Detecting Breast Cancer After Reconstruction Still Possible?
It’s natural to worry that reconstruction might make it harder to detect breast cancer if it comes back. At PRMA, we want to reassure you that DIEP flap reconstruction does not prevent the detection of recurrence.
Since the breast is reconstructed using your own tissue, without any remaining tissue from the original breast, recurrence typically occurs in the skin, chest wall, or nearby lymph nodes. Regular check-ups, imaging, and self-exams remain effective and vital in detecting any issues early.
How PRMA Helps Patients Monitor for Breast Cancer After DIEP Flap Surgery
Our board-certified surgeons understand that even after reconstruction, the journey isn’t over—and neither is the need for vigilance. That’s why we remain your dedicated partners in health and recovery, offering ongoing support to help monitor for any signs of breast cancer recurrence.
Our surgical team provides detailed guidance on what to expect from follow-up care, imaging when necessary, and self-monitoring tips that empower you to stay in tune with your body throughout your healing journey. We also work closely with your oncology team to coordinate surveillance, ensuring you have a comprehensive care plan that leaves nothing to chance.
Talk to PRMA About Breast Reconstruction and Your Long-Term Care Plan
If you’ve faced breast cancer and are now considering breast reconstruction, we’re here to help you reclaim confidence, comfort, and peace of mind. We offer advanced, natural tissue reconstruction options like DIEP flap surgery, designed to restore your breast and keep your health front and center.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step in your healing journey.
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Nan
Yet, as a stage III PT, the question still remains how ‘best’ to monitor recurrence after Diep recon at chest wall? Or is this concern not necessary?
PRMA Plastic Surgery
Hello Nan. No real consensus I’m afraid. Here’s another blogpost I wrote on monitoring after mastectomy and reconstruction: https://breast-cancer-reconstruction.blogspot.com/2009/06/mammograms-afte… Hope this helps. Dr C
Holly
I had the deip flap procedure done 16 months ago. Lately the left breast, the one where the tumor was, has been tender, almost like when I had my period. Can the be cancer reoccurring?
PRMA Plastic Surgery
Hello Holly! We will always recommend that you contact your physician as soon as possible if you have concerns. Although it is probably nothing, it is better to let your doctor know so he/she can review your symptoms and provide you with their recommendations.
Hui
HI Dr. C, I had DIEP Flap reconstruction with you 7 years ago for DCIS. It has been great till one week ago, when the recurrence was diagnosed and this time it is invasive and involved some dermal soft tissue. I plan to do mastectomy this time without any reconstruction (because of the recurrence and skin involve). I know there are not a lot a patients with DIEP flap reconstruction, so might be a very small number of patient with this type of reconstruction who needs 2nd mastectomy! The breast surgeon I saw said my case would be a bit complicated due to the reconstruction and skin involvement. So I am wondering if there are any advice from you who performed the reconstruction to me and to my breast surgeon? Look forward to hearing from you!
PRMA Plastic Surgery
So sorry to hear about your recurrence Hui! Sadly, even with after mastectomy there is still a chance (even though minimal) of a breast cancer recurrence. We would be more than happy to discuss any upcoming surgery with your breast surgeon any time! We are thinking of you and wish you all the best!
Angel
Hi Dr. C. I was 2 1/2 yrs cancer free until Oct 1st. I had zero lymph node involvement, clean margins. I had BMX w/immediate Diep Flap, then implants for volume. My PS here in Dallas did a fantastic job. The very day I found out I was going to schedule my 3D nip tats. I did not do chemo or radiation. Less than 1% chance this could happen I was told. I feel like women should get mammos after diep. This would have been caught sooner. I will find out early next week the results of MRI, CT, & bone scan. I’m a friend of Terri’s btw!! I may contact you for any reconstruction as I already know I need another mastectomy. Cancer sucks! Any feedback would be great! I dont think doctors should tell you they cured you because it’s a lie!
Thanks Doc C!
PRMA Plastic Surgery
Any time you are concerned about a possible recurrence, we highly recommend you follow up with your oncologist or breast surgeon for proper screening.
Jennings
Can cancer recur within the flap itself or just around the periphary – skin and axilla? I originally thought that the flap tissue wouldn’t support breast cancer spread.
PRMA Plastic Surgery
The recurrence would only occur in the surrounding skin and residual breast tissue, not in the flap itself.