What option do I have after a failed DIEP Flap LP Flap?

Question

DIEP flap surgery 5/1/18, emergency DIEP repair 5/1/18, failed DIEP flap with LP flap with implant 5/19/18, surgery due to necrosis with new implant 7/5/18, surgery for necrosis with new implant 8/24/18, surgery with fat grafting due to the skin not healing correctly and new implant 9/26/18, the last implant formed a capsular contracture and I will need future surgery. I have chosen to deal with the pain for now. My question is, what options do I have with all the failed surgeries?

Ryan Rebowe, MD · Answer

It is possible that you could have tissue transferred from a non-traditional site utilizing microsurgical reconstruction. This could be done from your thigh, buttock, or flanks. There are only a few specialized places in the country that will perform these surgeries, but these are likely a good option for you depending on your body habitus and where you might have excess skin. Of course, this will depend on the ability to travel for surgery, insurance coverage, and your proximity to one of these sites, but this could be an option.

Steven Mapula, MD · Answer

Thats is certainly a tough scenario, but you do have options. A profunda artery perforator flap should be on the table for you and can be a very effective means for breast reconstruction

David Light, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear you have had some difficulties.  The only way to know what options are appropriate for you is to do a thorough physical exam.  It sounds like you may have had an LD flap, or latissimus dorsi flap, with an implant.  This is a common back up plan for a failed DIEP flap reconstruction.  If there are issues with the LD flap, you can look to other areas of the body such as the inner thighs (PAP or TUG flap) or outer thighs (Lateral Thigh Perforator flap).  These flaps can be augmented with fat grafting or a small implant under the flap to achieve the desired breast reconstruction volume.    First step is to return to your surgeon or another board certified plastic surgeon with microsurgical experience for a physical exam.

What option do I have after a failed DIEP Flap LP Flap?

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What option do I have after a failed DIEP Flap LP Flap?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Reconstruction with DIEP Flap

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.