Model
DIEP Flap Surgery
in Dallas, TX
Overview
One of the most exciting new advances in breast cancer reconstruction following a mastectomy is the use of Perforator Flaps, such as the DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) Flap. The DIEP is the most common and original of such procedures. This procedure involves using the patient’s own tissues, from various parts of the body, to create a new breast. The techniques involved require microsurgical training and are therefore, only done by a relatively small number of plastic surgeons around the country like Dr. Duffy and Dr. McKane in Dallas. Not every patient is a candidate for a DIEP Flap, and each patient should consider all the available options before making a decision about breast reconstruction.
Surgical Technique
The DIEP Flap involves using tissue from the abdomen as is done with a TRAM flap. However, with a DIEP flap, the abdominal muscles of the abdomen are left intact. The blood vessels needed to keep the flap alive are microsurgically dissected by the surgeon through the abdominal muscle, enabling the surgeon to use the overlying tissue without removing the abdominal muscle. The DIEP flap utilizes the same tissues but involve somewhat different blood vessels. The determination as to which of these two flap types to use is made by the surgeon, often at the time of the surgery itself, and is based upon the best available vessels in a particular patient’s anatomy.
Dallas breast cancer reconstruction patients have the same long scar across the abdomen as those who have a TRAM flap and generally have an improvement in abdominal contour. However, patients typically experience fewer complications due to muscle loss and have quicker recuperation periods than patients with TRAM flaps.
The Texas Center for Breast Reconstruction has the first surgeon to perform this procedure in this part of the state. Currently, Dr. Duffy and Dr. McKane are among only a handful of surgeons in this part of the country regularly performing DIEP perforator flap procedures. We are very excited to be able to offer this option to patients.
Other Types of Flaps
SGAP Flaps
The SGAP (Superior Gluteal Artery Perforator) and related IGAP flaps involve using tissue from the buttocks region to create the new breast. The same microsurgical technique is utilized as with the DIEP/SIEA. For patients who are unable to have a DIEP/SIEA, perhaps because of a prior abdominal surgery or because there is not sufficient abdominal tissue, the SGAP may be an option.
TUG Flaps
The TUG (Transverse Upper Gracilis) Flap and the related VUG or FDL Flap involve using the tissue from the inner thigh to create the new breast. This involves the same microsurgical technique as in the DIEP flaps but is an option for those who cannot use the abdominal tissue due to prior surgeries or insufficient tissue.
PAP Flaps
The PAP (Profunda Artery Perforator) Flap is yet another type of microsurgical flap like that of the DIEP except that it involves using tissue from the back of the thigh, beneath the buttock crease. It represents yet another option for those with insufficient abdominal tissue or prior abdominal surgeries.
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Advantages And Disadvantages
Advantages:
- Since the reconstruction involves using the patient’s own tissues, the risks of implant reconstruction are avoided.
- Because the abdominal muscle is not removed, patients have less risk of developing hernias at the site where the flap is removed than patients who have had a TRAM flap.
- It is typically easier to match the contralateral natural breast with the patient’s own tissue when compared with implant reconstruction.
- Patients essentially end up with an improved abdominal contour at the same time as the breast reconstruction.
Disadvantages:
- DIEP flap reconstruction generally requires a longer and more difficult surgery, at the first stage when compared with implants or TRAM flaps.
- Patients will have a scar across the lower abdomen where the flap is obtained.
DIEP Flaps Video
“Living Beyond Breast Cancer” – Breast Reconstruction Part 4
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Breast reconstruction is an important milestone in breast cancer recovery, helping to renew the patient’s body and spirit. Dallas breast reconstruction patients often choose breast reconstruction with expanders and implants as a way of feeling whole again and having their appearance reflect their true selves— not their illness. The plastic surgeons of Texas Center for Breast Reconstruction in Dallas, TX, Dr. Duffy and Dr. McKane, use an individualized treatment method that they can discuss with you further during a consultation. Please contact our office to schedule a consultation.
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