How Does The Timing of Breast Reconstruction Using Pedicle TRAM or DIEP Flap Work?

As we previously discussed in our first blog post in this series, immediate breast reconstruction can be incredibly beneficial and affirming for women after breast cancer. Today I wanted to dig a bit deeper into the subject and discuss how the specific timing works for breast reconstruction procedures. This will pertain specifically to breast reconstruction using the pedicle TRAM flap and DIEP flap methods.

For anyone unfamiliar, both of these procedure methods use the patient’s own tissue (from the abdominal area) instead of a breast implant to rebuild the affected breasts following a breast cancer surgery. In the case of pedicle TRAM flap surgery, which is used to restore both breasts following a double mastectomy, the procedure generally takes around two and a half to three hours to perform after the mastectomy has completed. In the case of the DIEP flap procedure, to ensure patient safety, it will likely take up to eight hours or more to restore both breasts.

Additionally, because the DIEP flap generally takes so long and may require a tissue expander prior to the surgery, it is typical that this method will require two separate surgeries and recoveries. This extended operating time means that the reconstruction procedure may actually have to take place in the weeks following the initial procedure, instead of immediately.

In the following video, I go into more detail on the timing of both procedure types to help women better understand their options:

With this timing in mind, I hope that more women will be able to find the best-possible breast reconstruction method for their needs. For more information on breast reconstruction surgery or if you would like to schedule a plastic surgery consultation to learn more, please contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. You can also follow along with me on Facebook for additional plastic surgery videos, tips, news, and much more.