Natural Tissue Flap Reconstruction

Natural Tissue Flap Reconstruction, especially the DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) Flap, is an advanced breast reconstruction option that uses a patient’s own tissue to achieve natural-looking and long-lasting results. At Specialized Plastic Surgery, our expert plastic surgeons focus on this state-of-the-art technique, providing patients in New York and New Jersey with a personalized approach that adapts with the body over time. The DIEP flap offers a natural feel and appearance by using tissue from the abdomen, which not only reconstructs the breast but also preserves abdominal muscles, supporting a faster and more comfortable recovery. This procedure is ideal for patients seeking a reconstruction solution that integrates seamlessly with their body’s own tissue, particularly for those who have undergone radiation therapy.

Natural Tissue Flap Reconstruction

What is Natural Tissue Flap Reconstruction?

Natural tissue flap reconstruction involves using a patient’s own tissue – typically from areas such as the abdomen, back, or thighs – to recreate a breast following mastectomy. This method, known as autologous tissue reconstruction, provides a softer, more natural outcome compared to implant-based reconstruction.

Several types of flap techniques are available:

DIEP Flap: Harvests tissue from the abdomen without impacting the abdominal muscles, preserving strength and reducing recovery time.
TRAM Flap: Uses abdominal muscle tissue, suitable for cases where additional structure is desired.
LAT Flap: Takes tissue from the back and can be combined with an implant for added volume.
PAP Flap: Sources tissue from the thigh, a good choice when abdominal tissue is not viable.

Of these, the DIEP flap is the preferred and most frequently performed at Specialized Plastic Surgery.

Why We Prefer the DIEP Flap

1. Natural Look and Feel

The DIEP flap creates a breast mound that feels soft and looks natural since it’s made from the patient’s own abdominal fat and skin. The result is often more organic and responsive to body changes compared to implant-based reconstructions.

2. Preservation of Abdominal Muscles

Unlike the TRAM flap, which involves taking muscle tissue from the abdomen, the DIEP flap only uses skin, fat, and blood vessels, preserving the abdominal muscles. This muscle-sparing technique helps reduce post-operative pain, preserves the core strength, and lowers the risk of hernias.

3. Long-Lasting Results

Because the DIEP flap uses the body’s own tissue, it typically adapts better over time to weight fluctuations and aging, creating a long-lasting and durable reconstruction.

4. Reduced Complications with Radiation Therapy

For patients who have had or will undergo radiation therapy, the DIEP flap is especially beneficial because it doesn’t rely on synthetic materials, which can be vulnerable to complications from radiation. Natural tissue tends to withstand radiation better, decreasing the risk of contracture or implant issues.

5. Secondary Abdominal Contouring

Since the DIEP flap harvests tissue from the abdomen, patients often experience a secondary benefit similar to a tummy tuck. This can be an appealing aspect for many patients, as it results in a flatter, more contoured abdominal area.

6. Lower Risk of Long-Term Complications

After breast reconstruction, we offer procedures to restore the nipple and areola, creating a more complete and natural look.

Why Choose DIEP Flap Reconstruction?

DIEP flap reconstruction offers a range of benefits over other techniques, particularly for patients looking for a natural, durable solution. Since the DIEP flap harvests only skin and fat from the lower abdomen (leaving the abdominal muscles intact), patients experience less post-operative pain and a faster recovery than with traditional TRAM flap surgeries. This method also preserves abdominal strength and avoids the risk of hernia associated with muscle harvesting.

DIEP flap reconstruction is particularly beneficial for patients who:

Prefer a natural look and feel that ages with the body
Want to avoid synthetic implants
Require reconstruction after radiation therapy, as it is less likely to be affected by the radiation-compromised tissue
Seek the dual benefit of a flatter abdomen post-surgery

Natural Tissue Flap Reconstruction

Who is a Good Candidate for DIEP Flap?

Candidates for DIEP flap reconstruction include:

Individuals who have undergone or are planning to undergo a mastectomy
Patients with sufficient abdominal tissue to harvest for the procedure
Individuals who with to avoid implants due to personal preference or a history of implant complications

DIEP Flap Technique at Specialized Plastic Surgery

The DIEP flap is a highly specialized technique that requires expertise in microsurgery. Our plastic surgeons are skilled in this delicate procedure, which involves precise harvesting of skin and fat from the abdomen along with the deep inferior epigastric perforator blood vessels. These vessels are then carefully reattached to blood vessels in the chest area, ensuring optimal blood flow and tissue viability.

Our approach minimizes disruption to the abdominal muscles, preserving core strength and enhancing recovery. Patients also benefit from our plastic surgeons’ focus on symmetry and natural contouring, ensuring that each reconstructed breast resembles the natural breast shape and matches the patient’s body frame.

The DIEP flap procedure typically takes 6-8 hours, performed under general anesthesia. The plastic surgeon begins by carefully marking the abdomen and planning the tissue harvest. During surgery, the skin and fat from the lower abdomen are separated from the muscle layer, leaving the abdominal muscles intact. The deep inferior epigastric perforator blood vessels are then detached from the abdomen and meticulously reconnected to vessels in the chest using microsurgery.

The harvested tissue is shaped to recreate a breast mound, ensuring it mirrors the natural breast as closely as possible. In some cases, a secondary surgery may be recommended to fine-tune symmetry and appearance.

Recovery from DIEP flap reconstruction requires a commitment to rest and follow-up care to ensure the best outcomes. Typically, patients should expect an initial recovery period of 4-6 weeks, with full healing taking several months.

During recovery, patients may experience temporary discomfort, bruising, and swelling. Our team provides comprehensive aftercare instructions, including guidelines on mobility, heavy lifting, and managing pain. We are dedicated to supporting patients throughout the recovery process, offering resources and regular check-ups to ensure optimal healing and results.

Explore the transformations achieved through DIEP flap reconstruction by visiting our Before and After Gallery. The images showcase our skill and dedication to providing natural-looking, symmetrical, beautiful results. These photos illustrate the potential for patients seeking a natural tissue reconstruction after breast cancer surgery.

Natural Tissue Flap Reconstruction

Schedule a DIEP Flap Consultation

If you’re considering DIEP flap reconstruction in New York or New Jersey, schedule a consultation with Specialized Plastic Surgery. Our team is here to help you explore your options, understand the DIEP flap technique, and make informed choices about your breast reconstruction journey.

Request an Appointment

Natural Tissue Flap Reconstruction

Why Choose Specialized Plastic Surgery?

Our plastic surgeons bring specialized expertise and a patient-focused approach to every case. Their dedication to using advanced techniques, like the DIEP flap, ensures that each patient receives personalized, compassionate care designed to achieve both aesthetic and functional goals.

Natural Tissue Flap Reconstruction

DIEP Flap

The DIEP flap uses your abdominal skin and fat, the same tissue removed during a “tummy tuck”, to reconstruct your breast.

TDAP (Back) Flap

The TDAP flap uses excess skin and fat from the back to reconstruct the breast following a mastectomy or lumpectomy. It is commonly used in combination with implant based reconstruction or fat grafting procedures.

TUG/VUG/PAP (Thigh) Flap

Thigh flaps (such as the TUG, VUG, PAP, or ALT flap) are an excellent option for women interested in natural breast reconstruction who are not candidates for a DIEP flap or prefer to avoid an abdominal scar.

Liposuction and Fat Transfer

Our Liposuction and Fat Transfer procedures redefine body contours with precision. Unwanted fat is gently removed using advanced liposuction techniques, then strategically re-implanted to enhance desired areas.

Hybrid

Our Hybrid Reconstruction approach seamlessly blends cutting-edge techniques to deliver personalized solutions, achieving both aesthetic and functional excellence.

Lift Procedure

The LIFT Procedure uses your back skin, fat, and muscle in combination with liposuction and fat transfer to reconstruct the breast.