Houston, TX (PressExposure) January 28, 2011 -- DIEP breast reconstruction is an elective procedure for women who might have lost a breast due to cancer or other medical condition. It is a personal decision that can be physically and emotionally rewarding. Plastic surgeons in Houston specialize in the surgery to create breasts that look and feel natural.
The New and Advanced DIEP Procedure
DIEP flap stands for Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator flap. The flap comprising the lower abdominal skin, fat and blood vessels is harvested from the lower abdomen. The tissue is then taken to the chest where the blood vessels supplying the DIEP flap are attached to blood vessels in the chest. This ensures proper blood flow to the reconstructed breast and makes it more natural. The surgery is performed in such a manner that the incision scar is hidden in the skin folds.
The lack of use of synthetic material or mesh makes the surgery more successful and the body accepts the new breast well. A patient generally requires three days of hospital stay for observation after undergoing DIEP breast reconstruction.
Advantages of DIEP Flap
DIEP flap is a relatively new method of breast reconstruction that is gaining increasing popularity. Plastic surgeons recommend it over other alternative procedures such as TRAM flap as it is the most advanced form of surgery. The advantages of DIEP flap are:
- No abdominal muscle is removed
- No risk of abdominal weakness
- No risk of hernia or abdominal bulges
- Safe and result oriented
- Least possible chances of complications
- Shorter hospital stay
- Faster recovery
- Lesser doses of pain medication needed
Qualifying candidates are those who have not undergone a prior tummy tuck surgery. Moreover, they should not have any existing serious medical conditions.
Regain Your Figure and Lost Confidence
DIEP can follow mastectomy in the same surgical procedure making it unnecessary to go through another round of surgery and hospitalization. It has provided lasting results and helped many women regain their figure and lost confidence to a great extent. When considering DIEP breast reconstruction in Houston, make sure that you approach only experienced and skilled plastic surgeons.