BREAST RECONSTRUCTION
With own tissue
Borstreconstructie Borstreconstructie met eigen weefsel
Options.
DIEP flap
The DIEP flap technique uses skin and fat tissue taken from the abdominal area. This is the standard method for reconstruction using one's own tissue.
LUMBAR flap
A LUMBAR flap is an option when a DIEP flap is not feasible. This flap consists of skin and fat tissue taken from the lower back (love handles).
SGAP flap
A SGAP flap is an alternative that can be considered if a DIEP flap is not possible. It consists of skin and fat tissue taken from the buttock area.
Why your own tissue?
A reconstruction using your own tissue offers the most natural way to restore the breast. The result feels authentic, moves in a natural way, and is maintained for life. Since it is your own tissue, it is not rejected by your body..
Advantages.
No rejection
Because your own tissue is used, there is no rejection of the new breast by your own body. This is the case with a prosthesis, around which scar tissue forms.
Natural feel and touch
The new breast feels soft, warm, and pleasant, just like a normal breast. It also provides more comfort compared to a prosthesis.
Life long result
The end result is a new breast that is durable with a lifelong outcome. It is not intended that you should have to return regularly for additional corrections.
The steps.
The first consultation
During the first consultation, we will discuss your wishes, expectations, and the feasibility of a desired technique. If a reconstruction using your own tissue is chosen, a CT scan will also be requested to assess the blood vessels.
The reconstruction
A unilateral breast reconstruction typically takes between 4 and 6 hours, while a bilateral reconstruction usually lasts around 8 hours. The hospital stay is usually about 4 days.
The corrections
After the initial breast reconstruction, the next step is to perform additional corrections to achieve optimal symmetry between the breasts. This is usually done as a day case and takes place approximately six months after the reconstruction.
Final result.
After the corrections, a second correction can be scheduled, and often this is just the nipple reconstruction (usually under local anaesthesia). Three to four months later, a tattoo of the newly reconstructed nipple can then take place.
FAQ
The technique that is chosen is based on your expectations, wishes, and the feasibility of the treatment. Your anatomy and body structure are of great importance in this regard, as well as your lifestyle and certain risk factors such as smoking, clotting disorders, and cardiovascular diseases.
The average duration of a hospital stay is at least four days. This may be extended depending on your recovery process.
Everyone recovers in their own way, but we advise being cautious for six weeks. This means you should avoid heavy activities such as exercising or lifting heavy weights. Give your body the time it needs to recover.
A frequently asked question. It is advisable to avoid driving for at least four weeks after the procedure.
It is wise to consume several small meals throughout the day instead of the usual breakfast, lunch, and dinner structure. This can help to avoid a bloated feeling after eating. Additionally, it is beneficial to opt for a protein-rich diet, as this promotes the healing of wounds.
The duration of a unilateral DIEP flap operation averages between four and six hours, while a bilateral DIEP flap procedure usually takes six to eight hours. Many people are sometimes concerned about the duration of the operation, but there is no need to worry. The necessary time is taken to carry out the procedure carefully and perfectly, as there are various steps involved. For an SGAP flap or LUMBAR flap, the average duration is six to eight hours, during which the patient must be turned into a prone or supine position.
With a LUMBAR flap, sensory nerves can be repaired, allowing the new breast to possibly regain (some) sensation. This is less likely with a DIEP flap, as no nerves are connected. After a skin-sparing mastectomy or breast amputation, some sensation in the skin may sometimes be retained.
It is advisable to wait to bathe until the wound has fully healed. However, you can shower every day for the first three weeks; the flowing water provides good cleaning of the wound, whereas a bath does not.
It is advisable not to travel immediately after the procedure, not even for short trips. Wait at least 6 weeks before you set off on your journey.
Try not to sleep on your side for the first fourteen days. Remember to always wear your supportive bra. It may also be helpful to place a cushion under your knees to create a slight elevation and reduce pressure on the abdominal area (in the case of a DIEP flap).
Make an appointment now or ask your question.
Our medical team is happy to answer your questions, including those about treatments and fees.