Cosmetic DIEP Flap Breast Augmentation in San Antonio, TX

Name: Cosmetic DIEP Flap Breast Augmentation
Brand: Micallef Plastic Surgery
Rating: 4.9 (62 reviews)

Cosmetic DIEP flap augmentation presents an innovative alternative to conventional breast enhancement, utilizing the patient's own tissue to build larger, rounder breast mounds.

A more effective implant alternative than fat transfer

Cosmetic DIEP flap augmentation offers several key advantages over breast enhancement using fat transfer. To begin with, fat transfer offers only a small increase in cup size, which may not be satisfactory for those patients seeking more dramatic results. Secondly, it is difficult to predict the percentage of transferred fat that will survive, as much of it is reabsorbed by the body. DIEP flap augmentation transfers living tissue with its own blood supply to the breasts, allowing for a highly authentic outcome.

What is cosmetic DIEP flap augmentation?

Whether you are undergoing breast augmentation for the first time or you seek a revision after implant-related complications, Dr. Micallef and Dr. Ortiz offer a state-of-the-art solution through the transfer of autologous tissue to the breasts. Cosmetic DIEP flap augmentation allows women to enjoy fuller, larger breasts without the risks of implants, which include capsular contracture, BII (Breast Implant Illness), rupture, rippling, and Breast Implant-Associated Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma (BIA-ALCL), a type of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. During the procedure, Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz will remove tissue and fat from the abdominal region, transferring it to the chest.

Candidates for cosmetic DIEP flap breast augmentation

Patients seeking an alternative to enhancement with both implants and fat transfer will find that DIEP flap augmentation has a wide array of benefits and may be an excellent solution for their needs. Note that if you have had stomach surgery in the past, you may not qualify for the procedure. As with any cosmetic undertaking, candidates should be mentally and physically healthy non-smokers who have realistic expectations about what their procedure can accomplish.

What can I expect from the procedure?

Consultation:

The first step is to undergo a detailed consultation with Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz and the knowledgeable, caring team. You will be able to ask questions and receive detailed answers regarding risks and benefits, recovery time, costs, and what you can expect from your results. Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz will perform a physical evaluation to ensure you have sufficient donor material for surgery as well as a thorough review of your medical history.

Surgery:

You will be required to follow a detailed set of instructions prior to your procedure. During surgery, Dr. Micallef or Dr. Ortiz will extract fat and tissue from the lower portion of the abdomen, transplanting these materials to the chest to build the new breast mounds. He may also use liposuction and tummy tuck techniques to improve definition and shape in your belly after harvesting the raw materials for DIEP flap augmentation.

Recovery:

After surgery, patients will likely feel sore and tired for several weeks. This is normal. Dr. Micallef and Dr. Ortiz will ensure you are comfortable by prescribing pain medications. Drainage tubes may be present when you wake up, which are used to escort excess blood and fluids out of the body, reducing swelling. Most patients will spend 2-5 days in the hospital recovering before returning home. As with conventional breast augmentation, heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be postponed for 4-6 weeks.

What are the benefits of cosmetic DIEP flap augmentation?

Because the patient’s own tissue, skin, and fat are used for enhancement, results are highly natural in terms of feel and appearance.
Less scar tissue is created than with implants
There is less risk of complications, including rupture, leakage, and capsular contracture
Muscle-sparing procedure
Creates a more feminine and alluring silhouette
Boosts self-confidence
Long-lasting results

Wide Awake Rapid Recovery

Experience the revolutionary Wide Awake Rapid Recovery method at Micallef Plastic Surgery, guided by Dr. Christopher J. Micallef. This advanced technique employs tumescent anesthesia for effective pain management and reduced bleeding and bruising. Direct communication with the surgeon is possible with patients awake during the procedure, allowing for a highly personalized experience. The minimally invasive nature of this approach minimizes tissue trauma, resulting in a shorter recovery period and enabling patients to return to their daily activities within a few days to a week.

Cosmetic DIEP Augmentation after Capsular Contracture

Capsular contracture is a common complication after traditional breast enhancement that involves the hardening of the tissue surrounding the implants. It may not only cause aesthetic abnormalities but can also be quite painful. Patients who have experienced this often seek out cosmetic DIEP augmentation as a viable alternative to reinserting implants. DIEP surgery can help patients resolve capsular contracture while maintaining the full breast shape and size they desire.

Why choose Micallef Plastic Surgery?

Dr. Christopher J. Micallef is a renowned, double-board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon whose meticulous attention to detail, painstaking artistry, and mastery of cutting-edge surgical techniques make him the ideal choice for performing cosmetic DIEP flap breast augmentation. Dr. Micallef spent over 15 years in the Air Force, developing the drive, discipline, and commitment that informs his work as a surgeon today. When you seek a surgeon with outstanding credentials, a compassionate bedside manner, and the advanced skills to perform complex, intricate procedures, Dr. Micallef is a natural choice. Call today to get started!