EASTERN SUBURBS BREAST SURGERY
DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction
What is DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction?
Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator flap breast reconstruction is our preferred and most commonly performed autologous reconstruction technique, and is widely regarded as the gold standard in microsurgical breast reconstruction.
Tissue - skin and fat - is taken from the lower abdomen, in a pattern similar to a tummy tuck, and transferred to the chest to create a new breast. Crucially, the DIEP flap does not sacrifice the abdominal muscles. The blood vessels supplying the tissue - the perforator vessels - are carefully dissected and preserved, and the flap is transferred as a free flap, meaning the blood supply is completely divided and then reconnected to vessels in the chest under the operating microscope.
The result is a reconstructed breast made entirely from your own tissue, with a natural softness, warmth, and movement that an implant cannot replicate. Many women also appreciate the added benefit of a flatter, tighter abdomen at the donor site - a natural consequence of removing tissue from the lower tummy.
Is DEIP Flap Reconstruction Right for You?
The DIEP flap is best suited to women who have sufficient lower abdominal tissue to create a breast of the desired size. Previous abdominal surgery - including caesarean section - does not necessarily exclude you from this option, though it will be factored into the surgical planning.
This page is intended as general patient information only and does not replace individualised medical advice. Please discuss your specific situation with your treating surgeon.
Private Expertise, Coordinated Care
All five of our surgeons hold appointments at two of Sydney’s leading public teaching hospitals. This keeps us at the forefront of evidence-based practice, clinical research, and multidisciplinary care. We bring that same standard of excellence to our private practice, with operating privileges across leading private hospitals throughout the Eastern Suburbs. Whatever your circumstances, you have access to a team working at the highest level.