Can I Get Breast Implants with DIEP Reconstruction?

Whether or not you can receive breast implants with DIEP reconstruction is dependent on your goals, your anatomy, and the nature of your reconstruction. It can be done, but individual eligibility varies.

The combination of breast implants with DIEP reconstruction is a procedure that involves using the Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap technique with implants to reconstruct the breasts. (1, 2) This technique is also referred to as a ‘hybrid technique’ because both procedures are used in a planned fashion to achieve the patient’s goals.

Breast reconstruction after mastectomy often presents one central question to patients: Should I choose natural tissue or implants?

With advancements in surgical techniques, the answer does not always have to be either-or, as our hybrid technique can offer the benefits of both options. MH Plastic Surgery, led by Dr. Michael Howard, is recognized as one of the Midwest’s leading breast reconstruction practices. Dr. Howard can help patients reconstruct their breasts to their ideal image using implants, natural tissues, or both.

Whether you are seeking symmetry after mastectomy, added volume, or simply want to refine your initial DIEP results, it is important to understand your surgical options. If you have had or are planning a DIEP flap reconstruction and are wondering whether implants can be part of your journey, Dr. Howard is here to guide you through every option with expertise, compassion, and artistry.

If you’re considering your reconstruction options, we invite you to schedule a personal consultation at one of our three locations in Lake Forest, Chicago, or Glenview by giving us a call at (224) 271-4250.

About Breast Implants with DIEP Reconstruction

The DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) flap is a reconstructive procedure that takes abdominal skin and fat and repurposes it to recreate the breast mound. (3) Unlike older techniques, DIEP flap procedures preserve the abdominal muscles, which supports a shorter recovery and lowers the risk of complications. The result is a soft, natural look.

Adding implants to a DIEP flap reconstruction may be appropriate in certain cases where additional volume or symmetry is either desired or needed. This approach is often referred to as a hybrid breast reconstruction (4) and may be recommended if:

  • You desire fuller breasts than what your natural tissue alone can achieve
  • You experience flap volume loss over time
  • You want better symmetry between the reconstructed and natural breast
  • You are looking to revise or enhance your prior DIEP results

Benefits

Combining implants with DIEP reconstruction can provide patients with the best perks of each method, including:

  • Aesthetic enhancement that combines natural tissue with structured implant support
  • Greater ability to match breast size and shape in unilateral reconstructions
  • More options for women with limited abdominal fat
  • Soft, natural tissue feel from DIEP, with added projection from the implant
  • A highly customizable procedure that can be tailored to your goals
  • Revision potential for improving outcomes from prior reconstructions

Candidates

Not every patient is a candidate for combined DIEP flap and implant reconstruction, but many are. Patients who benefit most from this hybrid reconstruction are usually:

  • Women who have undergone DIEP flap surgery but desire additional volume
  • Those seeking improved symmetry between natural and reconstructed breasts
  • Patients in good general health
  • Nonsmokers or those willing to temporarily refrain from nicotine usage
  • Women experiencing volume loss or dissatisfaction with prior results
  • Those planning reconstruction in stages and exploring future enhancement options

Whether or not you are a candidate for this reconstruction method will be determined by Dr. Howard during your personal consultation after he has gained sufficient information about you, your background, and your overall goals.

Personal Consultation

Every breast reconstruction journey is deeply personal, and therefore, your journey will begin with a one-on-one consultation with Dr. Howard. During your consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss your medical history, surgical goals, and any concerns you have about DIEP flap reconstruction with implants. Dr. Howard will assess your previous procedures, evaluate your current anatomy, and explore whether a hybrid reconstruction is suitable for your circumstances.

You will also be able to review before-and-after photos of patients with similar cases and learn about different implant types, placement options, and surgical timelines. Together, you and Dr. Howard will develop a personalized treatment plan.

Schedule this personal consultation at our Lake Forest, Chicago, or Glenview locations by calling (224) 271-4250.

Preparation

Dr. Howard and his team will provide clear preoperative instructions tailored to your plan. You may be asked to:

  • Avoid nicotine and alcohol before treatment and throughout recovery
  • Stop taking medications or supplements that thin the blood
  • Complete any lab tests or medical clearances
  • Make arrangements for transportation and post-surgical care
  • Discuss any prior implant or flap surgeries in detail

By following these steps, you will reduce the risk of complications and help ensure a smoother recovery.

Procedure

Breast implant with DIEP reconstruction is commonly referred to as a ‘hybrid technique’ because it combines unique aspects of both treatments to achieve the patient’s goals. As such, the exact approach of your procedure will vary depending on your goals and whether the implant is being added during or after your DIEP flap reconstruction. If implants are placed during the initial DIEP flap surgery, Dr. Howard will strategically position the flap tissue over the implant to ensure a smooth, natural contour.

For staged procedures, the flap is allowed to heal and settle before an implant is added during a second surgery. This two-step approach can provide more control over shape and symmetry, especially when only one breast has been reconstructed. Dr. Howard uses advanced microsurgical and aesthetic techniques to ensure precise implant placement, optimal tissue coverage, and minimal scarring.

Recovery

What your recovery process entails will depend on the extent of your procedure. If implants are placed at the same time as your DIEP flap, you may experience moderate swelling, soreness, and fatigue for the first two to three weeks. Dr. Howard will provide pain management options, compression garments, and follow-up care to monitor your healing. If your implant is added later as a second stage, recovery tends to be shorter. Most patients return to light activity within a week, though you can expect to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for several weeks. Dr. Howard and his team will guide you through the recovery process and make adjustments to your plan as needed.

Results

Results from DIEP reconstruction with implants can be greatly satisfying. Patients often report greater breast volume, enhanced projection, and improved symmetry. The combination of soft, natural tissue and implant structure creates a balanced, aesthetically pleasing outcome. Over time, implants may require maintenance or revision, but Dr. Howard will help you stay informed and empowered about your options. Many patients experience a renewed sense of confidence and peace of mind after completing their reconstruction journey with Dr. Howard and his team.

Cost of Breast Implants and DIEP Reconstruction in Chicago

In many cases, reconstruction after mastectomy is covered by insurance under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act. (5) Dr. Howard and his team will work with your insurance provider and provide a detailed estimate so you can make informed decisions when pursuing treatment.

Schedule your consultation today to explore your reconstruction options and their associated costs. Please call any of our locations in Lake Forest, Glenview, or Chicago at (224) 271-4250.

FAQ

Can I get implants after DIEP reconstruction?

Yes, many patients are eligible for implants after DIEP flap surgery, during the same procedure or as a staged approach later on.

Why would someone want implants after a DIEP flap?

Some patients want additional volume, better symmetry, or an enhanced shape that cannot be fully achieved with natural tissue alone.

Is hybrid breast reconstruction safe?

When performed by a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Howard, hybrid reconstruction is a safe and effective option for many women.

Will the implants feel natural under the flap?

Yes, the flap tissue adds a layer of softness and warmth over the implant, helping the breast feel more natural than implants alone.

Do I have to receive implants during my DIEP reconstruction?

Not necessarily. Implants can be added during the initial reconstruction or at a later stage.

Are there risks to combining DIEP and implants?

All surgeries carry some risk. Dr. Howard will discuss any specific risks and how to minimize them during your consultation.

References

  1. Ben Aziz M, Rose J. Breast Reconstruction Perforator Flaps. PubMed. Published 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK565866/
  2. Patel BC, Wong CS, Wright T, Schaffner AD. Breast Implants. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK441998/
  3. Haddock NT, Teotia SS. Efficient DIEP Flap: Bilateral Breast Reconstruction in Less Than Four Hours. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open. 2021;9(9):e3801. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/gox.0000000000003801
  4. Kanchwala S, Momeni A. Hybrid breast reconstruction—the best of both worlds. Gland Surgery. 2019;8(1):82-89. doi:https://doi.org/10.21037/gs.2018.11.01
  5. Your Rights After a Mastectomy. DOL. Published 2024. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/ebsa/about-ebsa/our-activities/resource-center/publications/your-rights-after-a-mastectomy
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