DIEP FLAP

DEEP INFERIOR EPIGASTRIC ARTERY PERFORATOR (DIEP) FLAP

Dr. Mark Melendez is the first fellowship trained microsurgeon to successfully perform the DIEP Flap procedure at Griffin and Norwalk Hospital.

The DIEP flap is the technique where skin and tissue (no muscle) is taken from the abdomen in order to recreate the breast following a mastectomy.

This surgery is preferred to others because, when the breast is reconstructed using entirely the patient’s own tissue, the results are generally more natural and there are no concerns about problems with implants. Many patients also enjoy an improved abdominal contour or what some refer to as the “tummy tuck†effect as well.

I promise that I will do everything possible to make your breasts look and feel as natural as possible. Prior to your surgery we will discuss all your concerns, as well as your expectations for your post-surgery appearance and recovery. We will talk about creative techniques, such as fat transfer or grafting, as additional options to give your silhouette a more natural appearance.

Following this type of operation the average patient can expect to spend three to five days in the hospital. The total average recovery time for DIEP flap reconstruction is four to six weeks.

Source: Dr. Mark Melendez and Johns Hopkins Medicine.