I had a DIEP flap reconstruction. Do I now have lymphedema?

Hi Lizabeth22, The DIEP flap surgery dissects blood vessels that are between the anterior and posterior rectus sheaths, behind the rectus muscle but always outside of the abdominal cavity. Although it can happen in the rare occasion of prior surgery and scarring, the DIEP flap surgery generally...

I'm sorry to hear that you've had some trouble with your reconstruction. You are correct...another tissue flap would be an option to complete your right breast reconstruction. Options would include gluteal flaps (SGAP), thigh flaps (PAP or TUG flaps) or lower back flaps (LAP flap). Your current...

Hi smipigfarm, DIEP is possible after many abdominal surgeries. The most common are prior laparoscopic surgery, prior Pfannensteil (low transverse) c section scar, and prior vertical midline below the umbilicus. In addition to the benefits of tissue based reconstruction, the DIEP surgery will...

Your particular, situation sounds as though it may be fat necrosis and possibly the return of an infection.You may need to start debridement, but these concerns should be discussed with your Plastic Surgeon.

Usually for my patients I try to perform the reconstruction so they have no revisions.  But it is common to require one or two revisions including fat transfer to get a perfect result.

Although a DIEP flap and a tummy tuck both remove the lower abdominal skin and fat, there are differences. During a tummy tuck, the fat above the umbilicus is often thinned during the procedure. Liposuction is not usually performed at the time of a DIEP because the focus is on completing the...