SIEA Flap Reconstruction
SIEA Flap reconstruction surgery replaces the skin and soft tissue removed at mastectomy with soft, warm, living tissue by borrowing skin and fatty tissue from the abdomen.
Understanding SIEA Flap Reconstructive Surgery
At Florida Breast Center, we are proud to offer a range of advanced reconstruction techniques that prioritize both natural results and your long-term well-being. One such option is the SIEA Flap – a microsurgical procedure that uses your own tissue from the lower abdomen to recreate a soft, warm, and natural-feeling breast after mastectomy.
Similar to the DIEP Flap, this method transfers skin and fat from the abdomen. However, what makes the SIEA Flap (Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Flap) unique is that it uses blood vessels located just beneath the skin, completely avoiding the abdominal muscles. This means no cutting through or around muscle tissue, resulting in less impact on core strength and often an easier recovery.
The process involves making a low incision near the bikini line, removing the necessary tissue along with the superficial vessels, and carefully connecting those vessels to healthy ones in the chest using high-precision microsurgery. The nipple and areola may be restored in a later stage, and over time, scars tend to fade significantly.
The SIEA Flap is an excellent choice for women who have suitable superficial vessels and want the most muscle-sparing approach available. As always, our team will help you understand whether this technique is right for your body and goals.
📞 Schedule a consultation to explore whether SIEA Flap reconstruction may be the best path forward for you.
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FAQ's about SIEA Flap Breast Reconstruction
Like the DIEP procedure, lower abdominal tissue is harvested during the SIEA Flap procedure, leaving a thin scar and a flat belly (very much like a tummy tuck). The scar will fade over time and is usually not visible in most clothing. Most patients report that the scar is barely noticeable after one year post-surgery.
For many women, the reconstructed breast may be firmer and have a more youthful appearance than their natural breasts. The reconstructed breast will also remain consistent in size and shape, while the natural breasts may change over time. SIEA Flap microsurgery often produces a more symmetrical result than other breast reconstruction procedures, which can help improve overall body balance and aesthetic results.
While every patient’s recovery may vary, a typical hospital stay for SIEA flap surgery lasts about 48 hours.
SIEA Flap microsurgery breast reconstruction offers several benefits. It allows for the use of natural tissue, resulting in a more natural-looking and feeling breast. It also avoids the need for muscle sacrifice, leading to a quicker recovery time and reduced complications. Additionally, SIEA Flap microsurgery preserves abdominal muscles, minimizing the risk of abdominal wall weakness or hernia.
It’s easy to schedule your first free consultation with Dr. St. Hilaire and the Florida Breast Center. Just call or fill out our online form, and we’ll determine together if you’re a candidate for surgery. We’re excited to meet you!
Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey?
Your next step starts with a simple conversation. We’ll walk you through your options, answer your questions about natural tissue breast reconstruction, and help you make the decision that’s right for you.
Call us: 850-517-0013