Breast Reconstruction: Free TRAM vs. DIEP Flap

When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, she has been changed forever. The physical and emotional journey she experiences throughout the diagnosis and treatment can change her outlook on life and the way she feels about her body. When I perform a breast reconstruction surgery for a patient who has undergone a mastectomy, my focus is on trying to restore the confidence they had in their body before their cancer journey. One important way that I work toward the best possible results for each patient is by ensuring that I’m using the right procedure and technique for each individual’s unique needs.

Until they come in for a breast reconstruction consultation, few patients realize how many ways there are to restore a breast, and trying to understand all their options can be overwhelming. Beyond making my recommendations, I want to help my patients learn about their options, understand the pros and cons of each technique, and discover which procedure is the best fit for them. I encourage patients to begin researching their options before their consultation, and I offer information to help on my blog, YouTube channel, and Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ pages.

While breast implants can be a great choice for some patients, others prefer breast reconstruction that uses their own tissue (also known as autologous breast reconstruction). In the video below, I explain the differences between two of the most common types of autologous procedures: the free TRAM flap and the DIEP flap (or perforator flap).

While I consider it an honor to help each of my patients become happier with their appearance, the strength that breast cancer survivors exhibit makes them a group that I feel especially privileged to work with. For more information about breast reconstruction and other cosmetic procedures, explore my website or schedule an appointment for your consultation.