What to Expect With the DIEP Flap Procedure

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aaucoin

One of the challenges that many women face right after having a mastectomy is deciding on which reconstruction method they want to undergo. While you may not be excited about having surgery again, you should realize that there are some really great benefits to having a DIEP flap. Before you turn your mind off to the possibilities, learn more about its advantages.

If you can think back to before the time you were diagnosed with an illness, chances are you may have been struggling with your getting your body in shape. You may have been dieting or exercising in an effort to lose some of the excess fat that remains around your middle and on your thighs. Even if you weren’t too successful before with getting rid of the excess fat, you should be glad that you still have it at the moment. That excess tissue and fat will play a big role in the reconstruction of your breasts.

The DIEP flap procedure is one that involves a plastic surgeon removing a portion of the excess fat and tissues from your tummy and thigh area. Your surgeon will then graft the fat and tissue onto your chest area. Before you can regain and shape and definition, your surgeon will perform micro surgery to increase the chances of these tissues adapting to their new home. By performing microsurgery, your surgeon will establish a blood supply so that the tissues continue to survive in their transplanted location. He or she will also shape and mold that tissue so that the final result is a breast that looks and feels natural. Once that portion of surgery is complete, it will be several weeks before it is time for the next step in the breast reconstruction process. You will need to wear a compression garment for a few weeks.

The results of the first portion of surgery will be that your abdomen is much slimmer and tighter. Before you can go home, you will be monitored in the hospital for a few days to keep an eye on your health. Once several weeks have gone by, you can then schedule an appointment to complete your breast reconstruction. During this time, your surgeon will remove a tiny bit of skin from an inconspicuous place on your body to make your nipples. Once he attaches them, you will be taken to a recovery room. You will be instructed on how to care for your reconstructed breast. Keep in mind that after the first and last portion of your DIEP flap operation, you will need to modify your activities a bit. After the first portion, you will be incredibly sore since you have had a tummy tuck and a reconstruction.

A

DIEP flap

procedure is a great option for women who qualify. You’ll want to schedule a consultation with a doctor to find out more:

breastcenter.com

.

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What to Expect With the DIEP Flap Procedure