This article looks at the factors that go to determine whether you are the right candidate for DIEP flap breast reconstruction

1. Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery 1-713-791-070
The Ideal Candidate for DIEP Flap
Breast Reconstruction
Many women who have a mastectomy or breast removal
procedure due to cancer want to have a reconstruction
procedure to restore the breast to near-normal shape.
Deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap is among
the popular techniques for breast reconstruction. The first
step is an evaluation by the plastic surgeon to determine the
patient’s candidature for the treatment.
About DIEP Flap Surgery
In this method, the patient’s own abdominal tissue is used
to reconstruct the new breast or breasts. This technique is
considered superior to
others as it preserves
abdominal strength by
transferring only the
tissues, leaving the
stomach muscles intact. It also results in a softer, more
natural-looking breast. With this method, patients usually
experience less pain, enjoy a faster recovery, maintain their
core strength long-term, and have a lower risk of
complications.

2. Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery 1-713-791-070
DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Candidates
Having breast reconstruction is a very personal decision.
You may be a good candidate for the DIEP flap surgery if
you
· Prefer reconstruction using your own tissue
· Have sufficient tissues in your lower abdomen to
create the new breast
· Have never had surgery on your abdomen
· Have had radiation administered to your chest wall
· Have had failed reconstruction using a breast implant
You may not be a good candidate for undergoing this
procedure if you:
· Have diabetes
· Have an overly large abdominal pannus (hanging flap
of tissue)
· Do not want a lower abdominal scar
· Are obese
· Lack sufficient lower abdominal tissue to create the
breast
· Have had abdominal surgery such as an
abdominoplasty
· Are a habitual smoker (or quit smoking only recently)
· Cannot tolerate anesthesia over a long stretch

3. Houston Plastic and Craniofacial Surgery 1-713-791-070
These signs can only give you hints about your suitability
for the treatment and you need to consult a plastic surgeon
experienced in this reconstruction procedure to determine
your candidature. The surgeon will evaluate your present
health status, past medical history, and surgical history to
determine your suitability for reconstructive breast surgery.
Finding the Plastic Surgeon
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) offers
helpful advice on choosing a plastic surgeon to perform the
breast reconstruction procedure. Choose a surgeon who
· Who is board-certified
· Has completed graduation from an accredited medical
school
· Has completed at least six years of surgical training
and minimum three years of plastic surgery residency
training
· Performs surgery in accredited, state-licensed, or
Medicare-certified surgical facilities
AAAASF-accredited plastic surgery centers in Houston,
Texas have surgeons who are well-qualified to perform the
surgery using the latest technology and techniques.