Breast Reconstruction DIEP FAQ

What is DIEP flap reconstruction?

DIEP (deep inferior epigastric perforator) is a procedure to reconstruct the breast using skin, fat, and the blood vessels of the lower abdomen. Muscle is not removed like in a TRAM flap. A microscope is used to connect the blood supply of the tissue removed from the abdomen to the chest blood vessels. Because the tissue is completely detached from the belly and transferred to the chest area, this is known as a free flap. DIEP flap reconstruction can be used for immediate or delayed reconstruction.

Who is a good candidate for DIEP flap reconstruction?

The best candidate for DIEP breast reconstruction is someone who has enough abdominal tissue to reconstruct one or both breasts. It is not ideal for smokers, women who are obese, or women who have very little abdominal fat.

Where is the scar from DIEP flap reconstruction?

There are two scars from DIEP flap reconstruction. One is on the abdomen extending from hip bone to hip bone (similar to a tummy tuck scar); the other is on the reconstructed breast and usually is circular shaped.

What are the possible risks of DIEP flap reconstruction?

Potential risks include bleeding, infection, seroma, pain, scarring, numbness, asymmetry, microvascular complications, hematoma, DVT, partial/total flap loss, abdominal necrosis, partial breast flap dehiscence, and need for additional surgery. Dr. Sood will discuss these risks further during your consultation.

How long is DIEP flap reconstruction?

DIEP flap reconstruction usually takes 5-8 hours.

What is the typical recovery time for DIEP flap reconstruction?

A hospital stay of 3-5 days will be required. You will be sent home on pain medicine and antibiotics. You will have surgical drains in place on the reconstructed breast and in the abdomen. You will need to be off work for 3-5 weeks dependent on the type of work you perform. You should not do any strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks following this procedure. This procedure offers a quicker recovery than a TRAM because muscle is not being relocated.

When do I return for a follow up visit?

You will be seen while in the hospital as well as within a week of being sent home. From there Dr. Sood will determine when you need to follow up.

How long before I can return to work?

Most patients are able to return to work in 3-5 weeks depending on the work requirements.

How long before I can return to normal activity?

Most activities of daily living can be resumed within a few days. You will be given 10 pound lifting restrictions for the first few weeks following surgery. It is important to get up and move around within a day of surgery to help decrease the chance of developing a blood clot. Strenuous activities should be avoided for about 4-6 weeks or until Dr. Sood has given you clearance.

Dr. Sood's primary goal is to provide excellent clinical results along with a high level of patient care and service. Patient satisfaction is our highest concern. We are dedicated to providing every patient with a pleasant experience, beginning with the first visit and continuing on through surgical procedures and treatments and postoperative care. We encourage patients to evaluate the benefits as well as the risks of each procedure within the confines of realistic expectations.