Breast Reconstruction Before & After Case 73

This patient is a 61 year old female with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) in her right breast. She had undergone lumpectomy with positive margins so she decided to proceed with a right mastectomy. At the same time as her mastectomy, she underwent reconstruction of her right breast with a free deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap from her abdomen. During this type of breast reconstruction, the tissue from the abdomen is removed, similar to a tummy tuck. However, instead of discarding this tissue, it is used to reconstruct the right breast. This type of breast reconstruction allows use of the abdominal skin and fat with preservation of the abdominal muscles.

 

After her right breast reconstruction, she returned for a left breast reduction in order to make her breasts more even. She also underwent right nipple reconstruction and tattooing of her right nipple. She is very happy with the natural feel and shape of her reconstructed right breast and she has no limitations in her physical activity.