How is a DIEP flap performed?
During a DIEP flap reconstruction, tissue from a woman’s lower belly is surgically removed, shaped and attached to the chest to form a new breast. The surgeon takes skin, fat, and blood vessels, but leaves the underlying abdominal muscle (rectus abdominus) intact.
How long is a DIEP flap surgery?
DIEP flap or tissue flap breast reconstruction can be performed immediately following a mastectomy or as delayed reconstruction. Patients will be given general anesthesia before surgery. The surgery takes four to six hours, but it can take longer if performed along with a mastectomy.
How painful is DIEP flap surgery?
Healing and recovery after DIEP flap breast reconstruction can be significantly easier than most patients think. With the implementation of ERAS Protocols, most patients experience little discomfort after surgery, require little if any narcotics, and can be discharged from the hospital after 3 days or less.
What is Phase 2 of DIEP flap?
The second stage of surgery is commonly referred to as the “revision” stage and is usually performed about three months after the initial reconstruction. The purpose of the second stage of DIEP surgery is to fine-tune the reconstructed breast and improve the overall cosmetic results.
When can you drive after DIEP flap?
How long is the recovery from DIEP Flap surgery? Walking is encouraged the first day after surgery. After 7-10 days, you should be able to drive. You should not lift anything heavier than 20 pounds in the first 7-10 days.
What is Phase 2 of Diep Flap?
When can you sleep on your side after having DIEP flap surgery?
HOW LONG UNTIL I CAN SLEEP ON MY SIDE AFTER DIEP FLAP SURGERY? Until your breasts have healed sufficiently, you must avoid putting any strain on the reconstructed breasts. Most patients can expect to start sleeping on their side again at least four weeks post-operation.
How often do DIEP flaps fail?
Tissue rejection: Out of 100 people who have a DIEP flap, about 3 to 5 people will develop complete rejection or tissue death. This is called tissue necrosis, and it means that the whole flap fails.
Does DIEP flap lose weight?
If you lose weight after DIEP surgery, your reconstructed breasts will likely decrease in size as well. This change may be minimally noticeable or drastic, depending on how your body reacts to weight loss.
Is DIEP flap same as tummy tuck?
While we often say that a DIEP Flap procedure is like getting a tummy tuck, the focus of the surgery is natural breast reconstruction. Some patients may see results with the same toning and tightening as a tummy tuck, but others may not see drastic changes to their midsection.
Is DIEP a tummy tuck?