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Posted underBreast Reconstruction with DIEP Flap q&a

Can you have a PAP flap or other procedure after 50% success on a DIEP flap surgery?

Plucky444006Sep 29, 2024
Hi I had DIEP flap surgery and only one of my breasts was successfully completed and they had to place an implant on the other. I completely dislike the feel of implants and would like to know if it would be possible to consider a different type of flap procedure e.g. PAP flap for the breast with the implant? Also how many years do I need to wait after the DIEP flap to consider getting my second breast reconstructed with a different flap procedure. Thanks

Answers (2)

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Dr. Danielle Dumestre, MD
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Dr. Danielle Dumestre, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
5.0 | 2 Reviews
Answered on May 21, 2025
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Dr. David Branch, MD
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Dr. David Branch, MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
5.0 | 11 Reviews
Answered on Nov 19, 2024
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David Branch, MD

Thank you for your question. Sharp and transient pain around the scar is likely associated with nerve pain, though it is difficult to distinguish without a proper physical exam. Significant pain may indicate keloid scarring for which a steroid injection may be beneficial. Massage can also be...

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Issues with the abdominal donor site in the DIEP procedure are typically more likely in higher BMI patients. Although there may be a chance for an abdominal bulge or protrusion in a low BMI individual, it is not likely.

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Danielle Dumestre, MD

Hi Joylmman, DIEP flap reconstruction doesn't typically result in substantial loss of body weight, as the fatty tissue from the belly is just repurposed to recreate the breasts. That being said, your contour can look amazing, given the fat is moved away the belly up to the breasts, and...

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Ryan Rebowe, MD

This procedure is technically possible, but it is not the typical procedure that would lead to correction of tuberous breasts. Typically you would need some sort of prosthesis, either an implant or expander, to place pressure on the lower pole of the breast to expand that constricted skin. If...

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Ryan Rebowe, MD

Performing liposuction during the DIEP flap procedure is not standard or recommended. Both the DIEP flap procedure and liposuction increase your risk for blood clots, or venous thromboembolism (VTE). Performing them together would increase your risk too much. It is important to note that...

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