
DIEP Flap vs Implant Breast Reconstruction

What is the difference between implant and flap breast reconstruction procedures?
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to breast reconstruction. Knowing all of your options is crucial before deciding on any surgery.
Women often come to PRMA for consultation thinking reconstruction with implants is the only option available. In reality, most women actually have several options including various perforator flap procedures which use the patient’s own tissue to reconstruct a more “natural” breast.
The gold standard in tissue reconstruction is the DIEP flap procedure which uses the patient’s lower tummy skin and fat, rather like a tummy tuck. Key differences between the DIEP flap and implant breast reconstruction include:
Author: Dr. Minas Chrysopoulo and Courtney Floyd

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to breast reconstruction. Knowing all of your options is crucial before deciding on any surgery.
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I am 47 yo breast cancer patient. I have had 20 weeks of chemo 30 radiation treatments and a bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders placed with right axilla dissection. I am on target for reconstruction in August 2018. I am trying to determine between implant or diet flap. Can you provide any information to help me in my decision?
July 20,2020
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Hey Beverly! So sorry to hear you are going through all of this! There is no cookie-cutter approach to breast reconstruction and each individual has their own needs and expectations for their end results. It is very important to evaluate all of your options and decide what’s best for you! We would be more than happy to review your needs and provide you with our recommendations via our FREE virtual consultation form at https://prma-enhance.com/schedule-a-consultation/.
July 20,2020
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Beverly Goley Nicholson
I am 47 yo breast cancer patient. I have had 20 weeks of chemo 30 radiation treatments and a bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders placed with right axilla dissection. I am on target for reconstruction in August 2018. I am trying to determine between implant or diet flap. Can you provide any information to help me in my decision?
PRMA Plastic Surgery
Hey Beverly! So sorry to hear you are going through all of this! There is no cookie-cutter approach to breast reconstruction and each individual has their own needs and expectations for their end results. It is very important to evaluate all of your options and decide what’s best for you! We would be more than happy to review your needs and provide you with our recommendations via our FREE virtual consultation form at https://prma-enhance.com/schedule-a-consultation/.