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Healing Beyond Cancer  
DIEP Reconstruction 
at Athenaa

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What is 
DIEP Flap Reconstruction
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DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery Perforator) flap reconstruction is widely regarded as the gold standard in autologous breast reconstruction. At Apollo Athenaa, we offer this advanced technique as part of our holistic approach to breast cancer treatment and recovery. DIEP flap reconstruction may be ideal if you prefer a natural, long-lasting reconstruction without implants and have sufficient lower abdominal tissue for flap creation.

Using your own abdominal skin and fat, the DIEP flap reconstructs a natural-looking breast without compromising core muscle strength or function. Unlike older techniques such as the TRAM flap, which involves muscle removal, the DIEP flap preserves the abdominal muscles, significantly reducing post-operative complications and enabling faster recovery.

How the Procedure 
is Performed
At Apollo Athenaa, every surgical step is carefully planned and performed by experienced surgeons with a focus on safety, precision, and recovery.
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  • A flap of skin and fat, along with its accompanying blood vessels, is meticulously dissected from the lower abdomen. Care is taken to preserve muscle while ensuring sufficient vascular supply.
  • The harvested tissue is transplanted to the chest, where the blood vessels are reconnected to chest vessels using high-precision microsurgery techniques.
  • The tissue is sculpted to match the desired breast shape and size, with attention to symmetry and natural contour. In cases of unilateral reconstruction, every effort is made to match the existing breast.
  • The success of the DIEP flap depends on skilled breast reconstructive surgeons with expertise in microsurgical anastomosis (joining of blood vessels).
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Recovery 
Healing at Apollo Athenaa is supported through structured post-operative care,
counselling, and rehabilitation support.
Hospital Stay

Patients typically stay in the hospital for 4–5 days for close monitoring.

Early Healing

The initial recovery phase focuses on wound care, pain control, and gradual mobilization.

Return to Activity

Light activities may be resumed within 4–6 weeks, with full recovery taking up to 8 weeks.

Ongoing Follow-Up

Regular post-operative visits monitor healing and flap health, supported by personalized physiotherapy and emotional care.

Key 
Advantages
At Apollo Athenaa, surgery is thoughtfully planned with a personalized approach, ensuring safety, precision, and optimal outcomes.
Natural Feel
Reconstruction uses your own tissue, resulting in a breast that feels warm, soft, and ages naturally with the body without implants.
Muscle Preservation
Only skin, fat, and blood vessels are taken from the abdomen, leaving abdominal muscles intact and preserving core strength.
Long-Term Durability
Autologous reconstruction offers stable, long-lasting results without the need for implant replacement or maintenance.
Dual Contouring
Along with breast reconstruction, the abdomen is contoured for a flatter, firmer appearance, enhancing overall body confidence.
Continuum of Care
At Apollo Athenaa, our teams remain involved at every stage, ensuring that recovery is not only physical, but also emotional and empowering. Each woman is supported through.
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Post-operative care, including flap monitoring, wound care, drain management, and guidance for scar healing.

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Structured rehabilitation, with physiotherapy to restore core strength, posture, and shoulder mobility, supported by nutritional guidance.

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Emotional support and counselling, addressing body image concerns and emotional adjustment after mastectomy.

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Ongoing follow-up and survivorship care, ensuring long-term flap health, functional recovery, and quality of life.

Frequently Asked Questions
Who is an ideal candidate for DIEP flap reconstruction?
01

Women who have sufficient abdominal tissue, are in good overall health, and wish to avoid implants may be suitable candidates. Final eligibility is determined after a detailed surgical and imaging evaluation.

Can DIEP flap reconstruction be done at the same time as mastectomy?
02

Yes, it can be performed at the time of mastectomy, depending on cancer treatment plans and preference.

What is the recovery time after DIEP flap reconstruction? Will there be scars?
03

Most women resume light activities in 4–6 weeks, with full recovery taking up to 8 weeks. There will be a scar across the lower abdomen (similar to a tummy tuck) and scars on the reconstructed breast. These usually fade over time and are carefully placed for cosmetic benefit.

Does DIEP flap reconstruction affect abdominal strength?
04

No. Since the abdominal muscles are preserved, most women retain normal core strength after recovery.

Is DIEP flap reconstruction permanent?
05

Yes. Because it uses living tissue, DIEP flap reconstruction is a long-lasting solution that does not require implant replacement.

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