BREAST RECONSTRUCTION WITH DIEP FLAP
Breast reconstruction with the DIEP flap (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) represents the most advanced technique to restore a natural breast after mastectomy.
Breast reconstruction with the DIEP flap is an advanced surgical procedure that uses the fat and skin tissue from the abdomen to reconstruct a natural breast after mastectomy. This post-oncological microsurgery technique allows for highly aesthetic and functional results.
The DIEP flap involves harvesting a flap of skin, fat tissue, and blood vessels from the lower abdomen, without damaging the abdominal muscles. The harvested tissue is then transferred to the breast through microanastomosis, reconnecting the blood vessels of the flap with those of the chest.
This surgical technique offers numerous advantages compared to other breast reconstruction techniques, such as reconstruction with implants. Firstly, the transferred tissue has a consistency and feel similar to that of the natural breast, providing very satisfying aesthetic results. Furthermore, there is no risk of tissue rejection, as it is taken from the same patient. Unlike the Transverse Rectus Abdominis Myocutaneous (TRAM) flap, the DIEP flap does not require removal of abdominal muscles, reducing the risk of postoperative complications and allowing for a faster recovery.
Ideal candidates for reconstruction with the DIEP flap are those with a sufficient amount of skin and fat tissue in the abdomen. This technique is particularly suitable for patients who have undergone radiotherapy, as it minimizes the risk of complications. However, not all patients are candidates for this procedure, for example those who have already undergone abdominoplasty or complex laparotomy.
The duration of the operation varies from 5 to 7 hours, depending on the patient's characteristics. Recovery takes about 4-6 weeks, during which pain may be present and some drains are placed to prevent the formation of hematomas.
Our plastic surgery team in Milan specializes in breast reconstruction with the DIEP flap, using advanced microsurgical techniques to achieve the best possible long-lasting and natural results. Our highly qualified plastic surgeons, with extensive experience in microsurgery, offer personalized attention to each patient, ensuring a comfortable recovery and a rapid return to quality of life.