Achieving Symmetry in Unilateral DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction: An Analysis of 126 Cases over 3 Years

Many patients who prefer breast reconstruction by a deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap often lack skin laxity at the lower abdomen. Recreating a symmetrical breast with various degrees of ptosis is one of the most difficult procedures. In this report, varied DIEP flap shapes were precisely designed on the basis of normal breast ptosis. The reconstructive outcomes were quantitatively evaluated for asymmetry of footprint, volume, breast projection, and nipple position by a 3-dimensional scanning system. One hundred twenty-six cases of unilateral DIEP flap breast reconstruction were successfully performed from January 2009 to July 2012. The maximal flap width ranged from 7.5 to 10.5 cm (mean, 9.0 cm), and the flap length ranged from 28 to 38 cm (mean, 32.5 cm). The discrepancy of the footprint and nipple position did not differ significantly between the reconstructed and normal breasts. However, the reconstructed side had significantly higher breast volume and projection. For patients with a relatively tight abdomen, the flap design and shaping approach we propose achieves a maximal symmetrical outcome and should be considered as a good and reliable option.

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