DIEP flap reconstruction is a common method of reconstruction. Occasionally the lower abdomen does not have sufficient tissue for a bilateral reconstruction and the flap reconstruction can be augmented with mammary prosthesis. Typically, we wait until one year after a DIEP flap reconstruction to augment the breast. The satisfaction rate is high with augmentation of the DIEP flaps because the…
DIEP flap breast reconstruction is an excellent option for a unilateral mastectomy in a patient with the appropriate body habitus. The unilateral autologous reconstruction can match the contralateral breast well with respect to shape. Size can also be matched well, depending on the abdominal donor site. Autologous flap reconstructions tolerate radiation therapy well. This is a right unilateral DIEP flap…
Breast cancer in some patients can be successfully treated with lumpectomy and radiation. Often the same pattern used to make the breast appear more youthful can be utilized to reconstruct the breast and make it in a more suitable shape for radiation therapy to be more effective. When the tumor is in a location close to the skin and outside…
Abdominoplasty is an operation that can effectively help to improve the contour of the abdomen. There is a significant amount of healing and patient compliance post-operatively that is required with abdominal binders and JP drains. Protein nutrition is important and patients are instructed to consume 80-100 grams of protein daily to facilitate healing.
