DIEP Flap Charleston SC - Breast Reconstruction

Charleston plastic surgeon Dr. O’Neill performs a specialized form of breast reconstruction that utilizes your own body’s abdominal tissue without the need for implants. For those without adequate abdominal tissue, other areas can be borrowed from without disturbing the body’s underlying muscle structure.

Known as DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) Flap breast reconstruction, skin and soft tissue removed during mastectomy is replaced with living tissue from the abdomen. An incision along the bikini line is made much like that used for a tummy tuck. The necessary skin, soft tissue, and tiny feeding blood vessels are removed. These tiny blood vessels are matched to supplying vessels at the mastectomy site and reattached under a microscope.

After DIEP breast reconstruction, restoration of the nipple and areola follow, and scars fade substantially with time. For many women, the reconstructed breast may be firmer and have a more youthful appearance than their natural breasts.

Charleston plastic surgeon Dr. O’Neill will discuss your concerns with you and explain the details of breast reconstruction surgery. He will work with you and your other physicians to determine a surgical plan that best suits your needs to create the results that you hope for.