Abdominal-based (DIEP flap) Breast Reconstruction
Restore your silhouette using your own natural tissue.
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Autologous breast reconstruction is a surgical procedure that uses the patient's own tissue, typically from the abdomen, to reconstruct the breasts following a mastectomy or to enhance insufficient breast tissue. While other iterations of autologous breast reconstruction can be an option, this procedure is often referred to as a DIEP flap in patient forums. This method creates breasts that look and feel more natural compared to implant-based reconstruction. It is an ideal solution for patients who want to avoid implants or receive radiation as a part of their cancer treatment.
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Autologous breast reconstruction is suitable for women who have undergone a mastectomy due to breast cancer or have insufficient breast tissue. Candidates should be in good overall health, non-smokers, and have enough excess tissue in the abdomen for transplantation. Women who do not wish to have implants or desire a more natural-looking result may also opt for this procedure.
Before and Afters
- Natural look and feel of the reconstructed breasts
- No risk of implant-related complications, such as rupture or capsular contracture
- The transferred tissue grows and ages with the patient
- Improved self-esteem and body image
- Permanent results that do not require replacement
- Improved abdominal contour
- Consultation
The patient meets with the plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, medical history, and the most suitable donor site for tissue harvesting. - Anesthesia
General anesthesia is administered to ensure the patient's comfort during the procedure. - Tissue harvesting
The surgeon removes tissue from the chosen donor site, such as the abdomen (DIEP flap), back (latissimus dorsi flap), or other site. - Breast reconstruction
The harvested tissue is carefully shaped and transplanted to the chest wall to create the new breast mound. Blood vessels are connected using microsurgical techniques to ensure proper blood supply to the transplanted tissue. - Closing incisions
The incisions at the donor site and reconstructed breast are closed with sutures. - Recovery
The patient is monitored in the hospital for typically 3 days to ensure proper healing. Patients will need some assistance at home when medically fit for discharge. Patients typically can complete their normal activities of daily living by the end of the first week and can return to all of their activities at 6 weeks. - Follow-up
Additional procedures, such as nipple reconstruction or areola tattooing, may be performed at a later stage to create a natural appearing, symmetric breast.
A consultation is usually a 30-60 min appointment in our offices depending on the complexity of your procedure(s). You’ll meet with Dr. Conlon to talk about your goals and what you want to accomplish with your plastic surgery. Together, you’ll talk about the right procedure or set of procedures to achieve your desired look. Dr. Conlon will walk you through the steps you’ll take before, during, and after the procedure.
You’ll also talk about pricing, logistics, and all the important details that ensure you have everything you need to feel confident about your plan.
We’ll work with you during your initial consultation to go over prices based on your specific case and needs, but when we confirm our price, it includes all pre-op, surgical, anesthesia, and post-op care. You can rest assured there will never be any surprises.
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Start by booking a consultation. It’s focused on you, completely confidential and private, and entirely pressure-free.