DIEP: Breast Reconstruction in Breast Cancer Patients

With thousands of women receiving the news of a breast cancer diagnosis, the decision to proceed with breast reconstructive surgery is often not an initial thought of concern. However, when planning a life care plan for a breast cancer patient, the discussions regarding breast reconstructive surgery, including the type of reconstruction, should be discussed, to some degree, with the breast surgeon as well as with a plastic surgeon. Of the dynamics involved in Breast Reconstruction Surgery, one such aspect of this surgery has become increasingly popular among breast cancer patients. It is a surgical procedure known as DIEP, Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator. As a breast cancer patient, understanding the aspects involved with DIEP will aide in providing a more effective decision when establishing a life care plan in the fight against breast cancer.

When diagnosed with breast cancer, the selection of a breast surgeon is commonly the primarily focus of the breast cancer patient. However, when considering the comprehensive treatment plan, consideration should also be made, and consultation should take place with, a plastic surgeon to discuss the options for breast reconstructive surgery, especially in the case of mastectomy. DIEP is part of the breast reconstructive surgery discussions which may provide for insight into the latest improvements in surgical repair for breast cancer patients. Because many plastic surgeons are not well educated in the DIEP procedure, or may not accept low offers of insurance reimbursements, the breast reconstruction surgery options should be discussed at the onset of the breast cancer diagnosis so as to prepare the breast cancer patient for the anticipated outcome. So, what is DIEP and how does DIEP differ from other breast reconstructions?