Waiting for any kind of surgery can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to expect and how to prepare can make a world of difference. Whether you’re just beginning your reconstruction journey or seeking guidance for the next step, having the right information can help you feel more confident and prepared for the road ahead.
At The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, Dr. James Craigie and Dr. Richard Kline bring over 20 years of experience performing DIEP (deep inferior epigastric perforator) flap surgeries with a >99% success rate. Their expertise in breast flap reconstruction has helped thousands of women feel whole again, both physically and emotionally. If you’re ready to take the next step, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team today.
Keep reading to discover practical tips and essential advice to help you prepare for your DIEP reconstruction with confidence.
What Is DIEP Flap Surgery?
Before jumping into the preparation steps, it’s helpful to understand exactly what DIEP flap surgery is. Unlike implant-based reconstruction, the DIEP flap procedure uses tissue—skin, fat, and blood vessels—from your lower abdomen to rebuild your breast. This approach provides a natural look and feel while avoiding synthetic implants.
The benefits of DIEP flap surgery include:
- A breast reconstruction using your body’s own tissue.
- A more natural sensation compared to implant options.
- Permanent results, as there is no risk of implant ruptures or replacements.
Our team also offers alternative options, such as the GAP (buttocks tissue) and PAP (thigh tissue) flap techniques, for women who may not have enough abdominal tissue for the DIEP flap.
Step 1: The Initial Consultation
Your preparation begins with an in-depth consultation. This is your opportunity to sit down with experienced surgeons to discuss your goals, health history, and any questions you may have.
Here's what you can expect:
- Medical Review: Your surgeon will go over your health history, previous surgeries, and any underlying conditions to assess your candidacy for the DIEP flap procedure.
- Understanding Your Options: Your care team will explain the DIEP flap surgery in detail, as well as alternative procedures like the GAP or PAP flaps, to tailor a solution that fits your needs.
- Realistic Expectations: You’ll discuss potential outcomes, recovery timelines, and any challenges specific to your body or situation.
If you’re unsure about traveling for an in-person consultation, the Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction offers telehealth consultations for out-of-town patients, making the process more accessible.
Step 2: Pre-Surgery Guidelines
Proper preparation in the weeks leading up to your surgery is critical for a smoother recovery and better outcomes.
Lifestyle Adjustments
- Quit Smoking: If you’re a smoker, it’s essential to stop at least four weeks before surgery. Smoking can interfere with blood flow, which is crucial for the success of the DIEP flap procedure.
- Healthy Diet: Focus on nutrient-rich foods that support healing, such as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Staying hydrated is just as important!
- Stay Active: Light exercise helps improve circulation, maintain muscle tone, and prepare your body for surgery, but avoid overexertion.
Pre-Operative Tests
Your surgeon will schedule several pre-surgery evaluations to ensure you’re ready for the procedure. These may include blood tests, imaging studies like MRIs or CT scans, and other assessments to map blood vessels in your abdomen.
Preparing Your Home
- Set Up a Recovery Zone: Arrange pillows, blankets, and any medical supplies you’ll need so you can recover comfortably.
- Enlist Help: Ask a loved one to assist you in the first week after surgery, as you'll need help with cooking, cleaning, and getting around.
Step 3: Day of the Surgery – What to Expect
On the day of your surgery, you’ll be working with a highly skilled team at our surgery center, including your surgeon, Dr. Craigie or Dr. Kline, both of whom are board-certified plastic surgeons specializing in microsurgery.
- Anesthesia: General anesthesia will be administered to ensure you’re comfortable throughout the surgery.
- Microsurgical Techniques: During the surgery, your abdominal tissue is carefully removed while preserving your abdominal muscles, a key benefit of the DIEP flap technique. Blood vessels in the tissue are then reconnected to vessels in your chest using a microscope for precision.
- Resensation (optional): For some patients, Resensation can be performed to restore feeling to the reconstructed breast by reconnecting nerves. Discuss with your surgeon if this option is right for you.
You can expect the surgery to last several hours, followed by close monitoring in the recovery room.
Step 4: Post-Operative Care & Recovery
Once your surgery is complete, your care team will guide you through the recovery process.
Immediately After Surgery
- Hospital Stay: You’ll typically spend 3-4 nights in the hospital under the care of a dedicated team trained in post-op breast reconstruction.
- Pain Management: Your medical team will administer pain relief and manage any discomfort.
- Incision Care: Instructions will be provided on how to clean the surgical sites to prevent infection.
At-Home Recovery
- Limit physical activity for the first 4-6 weeks.
- Wear supportive recovery garments as advised.
- Attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing and overall progress.
Step 5: Long-Term Recovery & Results
Recovery from DIEP flap surgery is a gradual process, but the rewards are lifelong. Many women notice significant improvement as swelling subsides, typically seeing their final results emerge around three months post-surgery.
Throughout your recovery, it's essential to care for yourself gently and thoughtfully. Here are some additional tips to enhance your healing journey:
- Move Gently: Incorporate light walking into your daily routine to improve circulation, prevent stiffness, and enhance overall healing. Gradually increasing activity under your surgeon's guidance can help you feel more comfortable and speed your recovery.
- Healthy Habits: Focus on nutrient-dense, balanced meals rich in vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Staying well-hydrated supports your body's natural healing processes and maintains your energy levels.
- Rest and Listen to Your Body: Prioritize rest, especially in the initial weeks following surgery. Allow yourself ample downtime, avoid strenuous activities, and respond promptly to signs of fatigue or discomfort by resting appropriately.
- Regular Follow-Up Appointments: Attend scheduled follow-ups with your surgeon to monitor your healing, ask questions, and ensure your recovery is progressing smoothly. Your medical team can also provide personalized guidance on scar management and comfort measures.
Step 6: Emotional & Psychological Support
Your emotional well-being is just as important as your physical recovery. It’s normal to feel a mix of emotions, from relief to apprehension, as you adapt to your reconstructed body.
Here’s how to support your emotional recovery:
- Seek Counseling or Join Support Groups: Talking with others who’ve gone through similar journeys can provide comfort and perspective.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Allow yourself time to heal mentally and physically; it’s a process, and small victories count.
- Use Resources from trusted cancer survivor networks, like the programs recommended by the Center.
Remember, you're not alone. The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction is here to guide you every step of the way.
Reclaim Your Confidence – Take the Next Step
Undergoing breast reconstruction is a big decision, but with expert care from Dr. James Craigie and Dr. Richard Kline, you’re in experienced hands. Their state-of-the-art microsurgical techniques and patient-centered care ensure you’ll receive the best possible outcomes.
Take the next step today by scheduling a consultation with The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction. Our compassionate team specializes in natural breast reconstruction, providing the care and expertise you deserve.
