Before and after bilateral DIEP flap breast reconstruction in a 49 year old breast cancer survivor. She previously had undergone a breast reduction and a right lumpectomy and radiation for breast cancer. Given her age and some scares with biopsies since then, she elected to have bilateral nipple sparing mastectomies and reconstruction.
Since she had enough abdominal tissue to use for reconstruction and she did not want a foreign body in her body, she was an ideal candidate for the DIEP flap. Her past radiation was not a factor in her reconstruction decision – implants are still possible, even after radiation.
Bilateral nipple sparing mastectomies were performed at the same time as her DIEP flap breast reconstructions. Her right radiated breast sat a little higher than the left due to radiation changes, which stiffen the breast envelope and cause the nipple to rise. The left nipple and areola was lifted at the same time to match the right.
She later underwent scar revisions and fat grafting to further compliment her results. Follow up photos are shown one year after mastectomies and DIEP flaps and six months after fat grafting. Her swelling continues to dissipate and her scars are maturing.
She now can continue life in her 50’s without worrying about another cancer recurrence. She has had her “Breast Cancer Makeover”!
*All photos are actual patient photographs and are for illustrative purposes only. Individual results may vary.
