DIEP

DIEP flap breast reconstruction results in the creation of a "natural" breast without muscle removal.

One in nine women develop breast cancer with many requiring mastectomy for treatment.

Psychological and emotional benefits associated with breast reconstruction are huge.

While breast reconstruction using implants appears to be simple, the body's reactions to an implant and consequences thereof, can potentially require the patient to undergo additional surgery.

With TRAM surgery, skin and fat of the lower abdomen are used to recreate the breast.  A portion (or the entire) rectus muscle is used because the blood vessels lie within the muscle.  However, the muscle doesn't contribute to the size or shape of the breast.  And the consequences of using even small amount of muscle removal can lead to an abdominal hernia.

With the D eep I nferior E pigastric P erforator no muscle is removed . 

The perforating vessels with the overlying flesh are removed and the muscle is intact. Patients recover quickly with usually only a four-day hospital stay. The abdominal scar is placed low on the abdomen similar to a tummy-tuck resulting in a flat stomach. This new technique offers women the look and feel of their natural breast without the potential consequence of a hernia and further surgery.

There are very few surgeons who have been trained to perform this DIEP Flap breast reconstruction. Dr. O is proud to be one of those pioneers.

Click here to view video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPKtkYVwJZI

Another type of breast reconstruction involves implant reconstruction. When coming in for your consultation, Dr. O will discuss the treatment options and will help determine which type of reconstruction you will best benefit from.

Other forms of natural breast reconstruction include the TUG (Transverse Upper Gracilus) and the S-Gap (Superior Upper Gluteal Artery Perforator ) Flap.  Contact our office today to see which form of breast reconstruction works best for you.

For more information regarding breast reconstruction, please go to
Breast Reconstruction

Other available patient resources

http://www.charlestonbreastcenter.com

http://www.diepsisters.com/diepdoctors.html

http://www.diepbreastreconstruction.org/diepdocs1.htm

Please email us to discuss your insurance options. 

We are in a network with most insurance companies, and will work with you and your insurance company to see that things flow smoothly.

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