Videos

University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center

Breast Reconstruction and the DIEP Flap Procedure

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Overview:

In this 11-minute video, plastic surgeon Devinder Singh, M.D., discusses surgical options for breast reconstruction after mastectomy. He explains the two basic types of breast reconstruction -- implant reconstruction and autogenous reconstruction (using the body's own tissue to construct a new breast). He outlines the advantages and disadvantages of each type. Dr. Singh notes that age should not be a limiting factor in deciding to have reconstructive surgery and recommends that every woman undergoing a mastectomy discuss reconstructive surgical options with her surgeon.

Dr. Singh performs a state-of-the-art method of breast reconstruction called DIEP Flap, or Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator Flap. This microsurgical technique involves completely removing a portion of abdominal tissue from the body, bringing that tissue to the mastectomy site, and reconnecting the blood supply under a microscope to reestablish circulation to the relocated tissue.

Dr. Devinder Singh is assistant professor of surgery at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and a member of the breast cancer program team at the University of Maryland Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Cancer Center.

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This page was last updated on: February 26, 2009.

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