5 Things to Consider Before Choosing DIEP Flap Reconstruction
A deep inferior epigastric perforator flap (commonly known as a DIEP flap) is a reconstructive breast procedure that aims to rebuild breast shape by moving skin and fatty tissue only.
Although common, it comes with potential side effects that every patient should be made aware of before considering this type of reconstructive surgery. In this blog article, we’ll discuss what exactly a DIEP flap is, the main factors that should be considered before making a decision to undergo DIEP flap surgery, and the best choices for you.
What Is DIEP Flap Surgery?
DIEP flap surgery is a surgical procedure that requires a small incision in the abdominal muscle, taken from blood vessels that travel within the muscle. It is not dissimilar to abdominoplasty Sydney surgery.
DIEP flap is a reconstructive procedure and is often used as a way to reconstruct breasts after breast cancer surgeries like mastectomy or lumpectomy. It is considered a muscle-preserving procedure, as surgeons do not actually remove any muscle. Because of this, recovery time is quick, and there is a lower risk of muscle weakness
However, DIEP flap surgery is not for everyone, and it’s important to consider its disadvantages, as well as understanding if you are the right candidate to undergo this type of surgery.
1: Find A Trusted Surgeon
With an endless list of reconstructive surgeons in Australia, finding a reputable surgeon with the right credentials can be difficult. Dr Rhys van der Rijt is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon who holds a FRACS (Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery), specialising in complex skin cancer excision and reconstruction, including DIEP flap.
2: Get Medical Clearance
Certified plastic surgeons are held to high standards and have achieved exceptional goals when it comes to patient care. There are several considerations both you and your surgeon should discuss before going ahead with DIEP flap:
Your current health
All patients must be healthy non-smokers. If not, you must understand that the risk of complications will increase. Your surgeon should work with you and your medical doctor to minimise any potential risk.
Body shape
Patients with low body fat percentage will likely not have enough extra abdominal tissue to donate to reconstruct their breasts, and other options may need to be considered.
Past surgeries
Most prior abdominal surgeries, such as Cesarean Section, do not typically disrupt the main blood vessels that supply the DIEP flap. However, your surgeon will need ensure yourabdominal blood vessels are adequate.
3: Speak With Previous Patients
Some of the best research you can do before deciding on DIEP flap surgery is consulting with other patients. It’s always worthwhile to learn from other women and their breast reconstruction experiences.
4: Consider The Recovery Process
Even though this type of surgery does not involve removing any muscle, DIEP flap is still an invasive surgery that requires adequate recovery time. Recovery after DIEP flap surgery can take anywhere between six and eight weeks. Think about the implications the surgery will have on your daily life and plan ahead to ensure you can dedicate the correct amount of time to healing in a comfortable manner successfully.
How common is DIEP Flap Failure?
The risk of a flap like a DIEP flap failing is notably minimal, failure rates are around 0.5%-2%. This means that anywhere between 1 in 200 to 1 in 50 DIEP flaps will fail. The most common sign of DIEP flap failure is change in colour, so it’s important to look out for any changes in colour following your procedure and notify your surgeon of any concerns.
Get More Information On The DIEP Flap Procedure
If you’re looking for more information or are ready to book a consultation for a DIEP flap surgery, Dr Rhys van der Rijt is a certified and celebrated Sydney plastic surgeon offering the procedure at his Surry Hills NSW clinic.
If you seek another kind of reconstructive surgery, we can also provide information and consultation on popular procedures, including tummy tuck Sydney procedures.
