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Posted underBreast Reconstruction with DIEP Flap q&a

Why is it that following DIEP flap for delayed breast reconstruction, the transplanted skin has a yellowed appearance?

annemarie94Jun 11, 2016
I have been researching delayed DIEP flap surgeries and often notice in the photographs from afterwards, the transplanted skin often has a yellowed appearance. I understand that some skin color difference is to be expected from abdomen to chest but why yellow? Why not just a paler tone of your skin? Is this avoidable? Does it have anything to do with the health of the flap? Or poor technique by the surgeon? Thank you in advance for any help answering this question.

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Dr. Rodger Shortt, FRCSC
Certified Plastic Surgeon
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Answered on Jun 13, 2016
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Dr. Aldona J. Spiegel, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Answered on May 8, 2017
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M. Jude LaBarbera, MD

Thank you for your question, and I'm sorry for what you're going through.  I suspect this is abdominal wall weakness.  However, if you were my patient, I would start with a CT scan to better evaluate the issue.  Best of luck with your recovery.

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M. Jude LaBarbera, MD

BMI of 30-35 usually gives a good amount of abdominal tissue for breast reconstruction without increasing the risks of surgical complications from being morbidly obese.  Best of luck to you!

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Manish C. Champaneria, MD

Thank you for your question.Typically, after a DIEP flap reconstruction, one does not develop lymphedema. The groin lymph nodes are not harmed during the dissection of a DIEP flap. What you are likely experiencing is post-surgical swelling, that will likely subside with time. The pubic area and...

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