At Ginger Slack, MD in Los Angeles, DIEP breast flap reconstruction offers an advanced, natural approach to breast restoration after cancer. This method uses your own tissue to create a beautiful, feminine bust that complements your natural curves. Dr. Slack provides personalized, compassionate care to help you feel whole and confident again.
Restore your feminine curves & sculpt your abdomen
The DIEP flap (deep inferior epigastric perforator) is a breast reconstruction technique that uses your own tissue, typically from the lower abdomen, to restore your breast shape. This method not only recreates natural-looking, beautiful breasts but also offers the added benefit of a tummy tuck. By removing excess skin and fat from the abdomen, DIEP flap helps you achieve a flatter, smoother stomach while simultaneously restoring your feminine curves. It’s a powerful option that helps you move forward after breast cancer with a balanced appearance.
Benefits of DIEP flap:
- Uses your own tissue for a natural look and feel
- Provides a tummy tuck with the same procedure
- Preserves abdominal muscles for faster recovery
- Offers long-lasting, durable results
- Avoids the use of implants for a more natural outcome
- Reduces the risk of complications compared to other methods
- Enhances self-confidence and body image post-reconstruction
What can I expect during the consultation?
During your consultation with Dr. Slack, you’ll have an in-depth discussion about your medical history, goals, and concerns. Dr. Slack will carefully assess your anatomy and explain the DIEP flap procedure, outlining the benefits, recovery process, and potential outcomes. Together, you’ll review before-and-after photos of the technique and discuss your aesthetic goals. Dr. Slack will answer any questions, take time to develop a personalized treatment plan, and help you make an informed, empowered decision for your body.
What happens during the DIEP flap procedure?
During the DIEP flap procedure, Dr. Slack will begin by carefully marking the areas of your abdomen to determine the best donor tissue. She will then make an incision along the lower abdomen to remove a section of skin and fat, preserving the underlying muscles. The tissue is then carefully reconnected to the chest using microsurgical techniques to create a natural, feminine breast shape. Dr. Slack will then sculpt the tissue to match your desired size and contour, ensuring a balanced and aesthetically pleasing result.
What can I expect during recovery after DIEP flap?
After your DIEP flap breast reconstruction in Los Angeles, you can expect to spend a few days in the hospital for monitoring and pain management. The initial phase of recovery involves some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which is normal. Dr. Slack will provide you with pain medication to manage this, and you’ll be encouraged to gradually move around to prevent blood clots. During the first two weeks, you’ll need to limit physical activity and rest frequently to support healing.
After the first few weeks, you’ll begin to feel more comfortable, though mild swelling and tightness may persist for several months. Dr. Slack will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure that your new breasts and tummy are healing as expected. Full recovery typically takes about 6-8 weeks, but it may take up to a year for the final results to fully settle. Be patient and gentle with your body as it heals.
Are there scars after DIEP flap surgery?
Yes, there will be scars from the DIEP flap procedure, but they are strategically placed to be as discreet as possible. The abdominal incision typically follows the natural lines of your bikini area, and the breast reconstruction incision is made in a way that can often be hidden beneath the breast fold. Over time, these scars will fade but remain visible to some degree. Dr. Slack will work with you on scar management strategies to help minimize their appearance.
Will my breasts look and feel natural?
Yes, your breasts will look and feel natural after the DIEP flap procedure. Since Dr. Slack uses your own tissue from the abdomen, the results are soft, symmetrical, and beautifully shaped, just like natural breasts.
The tissue integrates with the chest, providing a realistic appearance and feel. Additionally, because the procedure avoids implants, the texture and movement will mimic your original breast tissue. You can expect to regain a natural look and feel that complements your body, helping you feel confident and whole again.
Why choose Dr. Ginger Slack?
Dr. Ginger Slack is a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in breast reconstruction techniques, including DIEP flap breast reconstruction in Los Angeles. She combines her artistic sensibility with meticulous surgical precision to ensure natural, beautiful results that conform to your goals and help you feel whole again. Her deep empathy for reconstructive patients ensures you receive not only expert care but also the support and understanding you deserve. Schedule a consultation to begin your journey toward restoring your feminine curves and reclaiming your confidence.
