Restore your natural shape with delayed DIEP flap reconstruction, a staged breast reconstruction technique using your own abdominal tissue. Performed by Dr. Jordan M.S. Jacobs, a board-certified specialist in microsurgical breast reconstruction, this approach allows for optimal healing and results following mastectomy.
Restore Shape With Your Own Tissue in Two Stages
Delayed DIEP flap reconstruction is a two-stage surgical approach to breast reconstruction performed after a mastectomy. Unlike immediate reconstruction, this technique allows your body time to heal before rebuilding the breast. In the first stage, Dr. Jacobs harvests a flap of skin and fat from your lower abdomen using deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) vessels. In the second stage, typically months later, this tissue is transplanted to create a natural-looking breast. This approach often improves cosmetic outcomes and reduces risks, especially for patients requiring post-mastectomy radiation.
You May Consider Delayed DIEP Flap Reconstruction If:
- You have previously undergone a mastectomy without reconstruction
- You require or have completed post-mastectomy radiation therapy
- You prefer to delay reconstruction for personal or medical reasons
- You have enough lower abdominal tissue to create a breast mound
- You desire a more natural-looking and feeling reconstruction
- You are healthy enough to undergo two separate surgical procedures
- You want to reduce the risk of complications from immediate reconstruction
Explore Your Options & Visualize the Results
During your consultation, Dr. Jacobs will conduct a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical exam of your chest and abdomen, a review of your mastectomy details, and any additional treatments like radiation or chemotherapy. He’ll assess the amount and quality of abdominal tissue available for flap creation and explain whether a delayed DIEP flap is the most appropriate approach based on your anatomy and healing timeline.
To help you visualize the potential outcome, Dr. Jacobs will use the Vectra XT 3D imaging system. This cutting-edge technology takes ultra-high-resolution images and allows you to “try on” different results, simulating your reconstructed breast using your measurements. Together, you’ll develop a personalized surgical plan that supports your health and aesthetic vision.
Your Delayed DIEP Flap Reconstruction Session
Your delayed DIEP flap reconstruction involves two procedures. In the first stage, Dr. Jacobs makes an incision along your lower abdomen to harvest a flap of skin, fat, and perforating vessels from the deep inferior epigastric artery and vein. The rectus abdominis muscle is preserved. This vascularized tissue is preserved for future transfer, and a temporary tissue expander or implant is placed beneath the chest muscle or skin envelope to maintain breast contour and skin integrity during the interim healing period.
After several months, typically once radiation therapy and initial healing are complete, you return for the second stage. Dr. Jacobs removes the expander and transfers the DIEP flap to your chest. Microsurgical techniques are used to connect the flap’s blood vessels to recipient vessels in the chest, typically the internal mammary or thoracodorsal vessels. The tissue is then shaped into a breast mound.
Before & After
Delayed DIEP Flap Reconstruction
*Each patient is unique, and individual results may vary.
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The Recovery Process After Delayed DIEP Flap Reconstruction
After your delayed DIEP flap reconstruction, you can expect an initial recovery period of 4 to 6 weeks following each stage of surgery. You may experience swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness in the chest and abdomen. Pain is typically manageable with prescribed medication, and you’ll be advised to avoid strenuous activity, lifting, or core engagement during this time.
Dr. Jacobs will provide detailed aftercare instructions, including guidance on caring for your surgical drains, incision sites, and compression garments. You’ll attend follow-ups to monitor healing and ensure proper flap perfusion. Most patients return to light activities within a few weeks, though full recovery and final results may take several months.
The Final Delayed DIEP Flap Reconstruction Results
The results of delayed DIEP flap reconstruction are long-lasting and highly natural in both look and feel. Because the procedure uses your abdominal tissue, the reconstructed breast closely mimics the softness and movement of natural breast tissue.
Over time, scars will fade and the new breast mound will settle into a more natural shape. Most patients also enjoy the added benefit of a flatter abdominal contour, similar to a tummy tuck, as a result of the tissue harvest.
Why Choose Dr. Jordan M.S. Jacobs?
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon Focused on Breast Reconstruction
Dr. Jordan M.S. Jacobs is a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with advanced fellowship training in microsurgical breast reconstruction. As a partner at New York Group for Plastic Surgery, he brings exceptional skill and experience to complex, staged procedures like delayed DIEP flap reconstruction. Dr. Jacobs is deeply committed to helping breast cancer patients heal and feel whole again. Schedule your consultation today to explore whether delayed DIEP flap reconstruction is the right next step in your journey.
