901 West 38th Street

Suite 410

Austin, TX 78705

512.533.9900

DIEP Flap for Breast Reconstruction

Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap (DIEP)

Perforator flaps represent the state of the art in breast reconstruction. Replacing the skin and soft tissue removed at mastectomy with soft, warm, living tissue is accomplished by borrowing skin and fatty tissue from the abdomen.
A slim incision along the bikini line is made much like that used for a tummy tuck. The necessary skin, soft tissue, and tiny feeding blood vessels are removed. These tiny blood vessels are matched to supplying vessels at the mastectomy site and reattached under a microscope.

Unlike conventional TRAM flap reconstructions, use of our refined perforator flap techniques allow for collection of this tissue without sacrifice of underlying abdominal muscles. This tissue is then surgically transformed into a new breast mound. The abdomen is the most common donor site, since excess fat and skin are usually found in this area. In addition to reconstructing the breast the contour of the abdomen is often improved much like a tummy tuck.

Restoration of the nipple and areola follow. Scars fade substantially with time. For many women the reconstructed breast may be firmer and have a more youthful appearance than their natural breasts.

DIEP flap breast reconstruction results in the creation of a "natural" breast without muscle removal. One in nine women develops breast cancer with some requiring mastectomy for treatment. Psychological and emotional benefits associated with breast reconstruction are huge.

Implant reconstruction superficially appears simple, however, the body's reactions to an implant and consequences thereof frequently require further surgery. Additionally, the safety of breast implants is controversial.

Ned Snyder IV, MD - Renee Snyder, MD
901 West 38th Street,

Suite 410
Austin, Texas 78705

512-533-9900

Monday - Thursday 8:00am - 5:00pm / Friday 8:00am - 1:00pm