Breast Reconstruction in Biloxi, MS

DIEP (deep inferior epigastric perforators) flap reconstruction is an advanced reconstructive procedure using a woman’s own skin and fat tissue from her abdomen to reconstruct the breast. Using the DIEP technique, Dr. Diaz connects the arteries from the harvested abdominal tissue to those in the chest so that there is adequate blood supply.

The DIEP technique has become more popular because it does not use foreign matter to reconstruct new breasts and results in more natural feeling and looking breasts. The DIEP flap procedure also avoids using abdominal muscles making the recovery easier. On top of this, the benefits of a tummy tuck also factor into the procedure allowing patients to diminish or flatten their abdominal area.

It is worth noting that Dr. Diaz is one of only three plastic surgeons in the state of Mississippi to perform the innovative DIEP flap reconstruction.

If a DIEP flap reconstruction is possible, planning for this procedure must include the time involved in recovery of the breast reconstruction and the abdominal area since there is the recovery of two procedures. This includes ensuring you have adequate help at home during the early stages of recovery, especially if you have small children.

In terms of the cost involved, many health insurance plans provide coverage for breast reconstruction which helps offset the costs involved. We can help you navigate your health insurance as well as any financing necessary to make the procedure more affordable.

With DIEP flap breast reconstruction, there are two procedures performed during this surgery. First, the abdominal skin and tissue are harvested to use in the breast reconstruction. At that point, the reconstruction is performed. The skin and tissue are placed on the breast area to create the mound and shape a realistic looking and feeling breast. The arteries of the abdominal tissue are attached to the arteries and veins in the chest to maintain blood supply. If it is possible, the original nipple and areola are spared and possibly used.

Breast reconstruction takes anywhere from two to six hours to complete and may even involve several procedures to complete the treatment. It is also typically done as an in-patient procedure and requires a short hospital stay of a few days.

The initial healing takes several weeks, during which time, any swelling and bruising diminishes resulting in the breasts taking on a natural looking appearance. Patients can expect to have several post-operative visits to ensure proper healing and correct shaping of the breasts. It is also important to make sure the abdominal area avoids any infection. Patients must avoid excessive activity for several weeks following the surgery.

The cost of breast reconstruction depends on the technique used, the number of surgeries required to complete the reconstruction process and whether other procedures are required. During your consultation with Dr. Diaz, we can review the costs associated with breast reconstruction as well as help you determine if your health insurance plan provides coverage for this procedure. In addition, we go over our payment options including financing through CareCredit®.