DIEP Flap Before & After

These before-and-after images showcase a patient who underwent bilateral DIEP flap breast reconstruction, a highly specialized procedure that uses the patient’s own abdominal tissue to recreate natural-looking breasts following mastectomy.

In the before photos, the chest reflects the changes following mastectomy, with the absence of breast volume and contour. The after photos demonstrate the results of reconstruction using the Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap technique, in which skin and fat from the lower abdomen are carefully transferred to the chest while preserving the abdominal muscles.

This approach allows surgeons to sculpt soft, natural breast mounds while also providing the added benefit of abdominal contouring similar to a tummy tuck. The reconstructed breasts typically feel more natural than implants and can age with the patient’s body over time.

Each patient’s anatomy, healing process, and aesthetic goals are unique. These photos illustrate one example of what may be achieved with bilateral DIEP flap reconstruction and are shared to help educate patients about potential outcomes.

This patient underwent bilateral DIEP flap breast reconstruction, a highly specialized procedure that uses the patient’s own abdominal skin and fat to recreate natural-looking breasts following mastectomy. Unlike traditional flap procedures, the DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) flap preserves the abdominal muscles while transferring tissue and reconnecting the blood vessels using microsurgery.

In the before photos, the patient is shown following mastectomy. In the after photos, you can see the results after bilateral DIEP flap reconstruction, where tissue from the lower abdomen was used to restore breast shape and volume. This technique often provides a soft, natural feel and can also create a contour similar to a tummy tuck at the donor site.

Individual results vary, but many patients choose DIEP flap reconstruction because it uses their own tissue, avoids implants, and maintains abdominal muscle strength. These images demonstrate how autologous reconstruction can restore both form and confidence after breast cancer surgery.

These before-and-after images highlight the reconstructive journey of a 52-year-old patient who underwent a staged approach to breast surgery. The process began with a breast reduction to improve breast size and shape, followed by nipple-sparing mastectomies. Final reconstruction was completed using DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) flap breast reconstruction, which uses the patient’s own abdominal tissue to create a natural-looking breast mound.

The after photos demonstrate restored breast volume, improved symmetry, and preservation of the nipple–areola complex, with results that reflect a natural contour and soft appearance. This case illustrates how a carefully planned, multi-step surgical approach can support both oncologic safety and aesthetic outcomes while using the patient’s own tissue for reconstruction.