NYBRA Plastic Surgery - Great Neck

I'm sharing my story to help anyone who has ever been told you can't have diep flap after lipo. This all began as a real nightmare and has ended better than I could have imagined. In Jan 2020 I was diagnosed with DCIS and was fortunate enough to have a nipple sparing mastectomy with immediate implant reconstruction performed by early March, just as most hospitals began shutting down 'non-emergency' procedures. This implant reconstruction failed, as did a second implant reconstruction that ended with an infection and explant. I had at this point been on cipro for more time than I care to remember, and a side effect of that medication is the possible tearing of tendons. This infection and explant majorly affected me, now having nothing in the way of breasts as well as the cipro keeping me from a lot of exercise and yoga which has always been a coping mechanism for me. Even so I was very grateful for having my life as so many have a much harder fight with cancer and at that time with Covid. I didn't want to stay this way, but the idea of having to deal with more doctors, more hospitals, and the replacement of implants again later in life as I aged filled me with dread at that point. After much effort, I was able to find Dr. Jonathan Bank of NYBRA Plastic Surgery. He was recommended to me when I turned to Terri Coutee the founder of DiepCJourney, both of them total rockstars. From the first interaction with Dr. Bank - he received my online request and literally picked up the phone that morning and called me - I felt an amazing sense of relief. Anyone who goes through this and has not had experience with the healthcare system knows that half the battle really is navigating all of it. I had my first of two procedures with Dr. Bank in Aug 2021, and my next in Nov 2021. Successful bilateral DIEP flap, even though I've had liposuction as well as laser lipo on my abs and was told by numerous doctors I was not a candidate.There are no words to express how happy I am with the results. I've yet to lose all the weight I put on during all of this but still look better than I ever thought I would again. Incisions continue to lighten with silicone strips and vitamin E. Dr. Bank is kind, incredibly skilled, and wants you to walk out of there looking and feeling great. He is truly amazing. I can't recommend him and his practice enough. Updated on 24 Apr 2022: **April 2022** Swelling continues to decrease and the scars continue to lighten. I can't remember the discomfort, and am SO happy I did this! Went in for post surgical visit and all is good. Ready for the beach!