DIEP Flap Surgeryin South Carolina

Name: DIEP Flap Surgery in South Carolina
Brand: Florida Plastic Surgery Group
Rating: 5.0 (635 reviews)

The DIEP flap technique is a sophisticated option for breast reconstruction, offering natural-looking results without the need for implants. Patients in and beyond Charleston, Columbia, and North Charleston choose Florida Plastic Surgery Group for its experienced providers, state-of-the-art technology, and commitment to patient safety and personalized care.

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Florida Plastic Surgery Group – World-Class Care in a Trusted Practice Environment

Since 2009, Florida Plastic Surgery Group has become a leader in advanced breast reconstruction, helping patients from South Carolina, across the Southeast, and around the globe. Our highly skilled surgeons specialize in DIEP flap surgery, one of the most complex and technically demanding procedures. Patients from Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston, and surrounding areas travel to us for our exceptional care, innovative surgical techniques, and outstanding outcomes. We offer a concierge experience, transparent pricing, and extensive follow-up to ensure a smooth recovery and peace of mind throughout your journey.

What is DIEP Flap Reconstruction?

A DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery Perforator) flap is a type of breast reconstruction that uses the patient’s own tissue from the lower abdomen to create a natural-looking breast. Unlike other reconstruction methods, DIEP flap surgery preserves the abdominal muscles, minimizing the risk of hernias and reducing recovery time. This procedure can be performed immediately after a mastectomy or delayed, giving patients the flexibility to choose the timing that best suits their physical and emotional healing process.

What are the Benefits of DIEP Flap Reconstruction?

Reduced Risk of Complications

Using your body’s own tissue avoids complications like capsular contracture, implant rupture, and breast implant illness (BII).

Natural Look and Feel

The use of your own tissue creates a more natural appearance, and microsurgery can often restore sensation in the breast.

Muscle Preservation

The DIEP flap technique leaves the abdominal muscles intact, lowering the risk of hernias and promoting a quicker recovery.

Minimal Scarring

Our surgeons place incisions strategically to minimize visible scarring on both the abdomen and chest.

Long-Lasting Results

DIEP flap reconstruction offers lifetime results, unlike implants that may need replacement, providing lasting peace of mind.

Boost in Confidence

This procedure helps many women regain confidence and a sense of wholeness after a mastectomy, enhancing comfort in their bodies.

Who is a Good Candidate for DIEP Flap Surgery in Charleston, Columbia, or North Charleston?

To determine if you are a candidate for DIEP flap surgery, our Florida Plastic Surgery Group team will conduct a thorough consultation. During this time, we will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss your specific goals. Ideal candidates typically:

Have sufficient tissue in the lower abdomen to support the flap transfer
Prefer a natural reconstruction using their own tissue and fat
Are in good overall health without uncontrolled medical conditions
Wish to avoid breast implants and the associated risks
Have not undergone prior abdominal surgeries that could complicate tissue harvesting
Maintain realistic expectations for the outcome

It’s important for patients to understand that DIEP flap surgery is a one-time procedure. If additional reconstruction is needed in the future, donor tissue may need to be harvested from another area, such as the thighs or back.

What Can I Expect During the Procedure?

DIEP flap surgery is a highly complex procedure that typically takes 6 to 8 hours to complete. It involves several carefully coordinated steps:

Anesthesia: General anesthesia is administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure.
Tissue Harvesting: The surgeon makes an incision in the lower abdomen to harvest the necessary tissue, fat, and skin while preserving the abdominal muscles.
Abdominal Closure: After the tissue is removed, the abdomen is closed with fine sutures, and the skin is redraped for a smooth, aesthetically pleasing result.
Flap Transfer to the Chest: The harvested tissue is shaped into a new breast mound carefully tailored to your body’s natural proportions.
Microsurgery: The surgeon uses advanced microsurgical techniques to connect the blood vessels from the flap to the chest to ensure the new breast tissue thrives.
Final Closure: The chest incisions are closed with meticulous care to minimize scarring and create a natural-looking breast reconstruction.

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Recovery After DIEP Flap Surgery

After DIEP flap surgery, patients typically stay in the hospital for a few days to ensure the newly transferred tissue is healing properly. This initial recovery period is crucial for monitoring and minimizing potential complications. Once you are discharged, our team will provide comprehensive aftercare instructions, including guidance on wound care, activity restrictions, and what to expect during your recovery at home.

Patients can usually return to light activities, such as walking, within 4 to 6 weeks, although strenuous activities and heavy lifting should be avoided during this time. While the recovery process for DIEP flap surgery may be longer than some other procedures, the benefits of long-lasting, natural results are well worth the investment.

Schedule a Consultation Today

At Florida Plastic Surgery Group, we are proud to offer DIEP flap surgery, one of the most advanced forms of breast reconstruction available today, to the residents of Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston, and beyond. Contact us to schedule your consultation and learn more about how this procedure can help restore your confidence and sense of self.