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DIEP flap reconstruction​

After a mastectomy, your surgeon may be able to use body tissue taken from elsewhere on your body to reconstruct the shape of your breast. One such procedure is deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap reconstruction, so-called because it uses a 'flap' of muscle, usually taken from your belly.  

Who is suitable for DIEP flap reconstruction​?

If you have had one or both breasts removed because of breast cancer, your breast consultant may suggest surgery to reconstruct the shape of your breast. DIEP flap reconstruction might suit you if: 

  • you have had a  mastectomy 
  • you do not want a silicone implant

Reconstructing the shape of your breast can help to reduce the psychological impact of surgery. 

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What does DIEP flap reconstruction​ involve? ​

DIEP flap reconstruction is an advanced surgical procedure. It usually takes about six to eight hours. A specialist plastic surgeon takes a section of tissue from one area of your body (usually the area around your tummy) and relocates it to your chest to shape a new breast. It can be done at the same time as your mastectomy or as a separate procedure at a later date. The advantage of the DIEP procedure is that the surgeon only removes skin and fat, leaving your abdominal muscle tissue in place.  

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What can you do to prepare for DIEP flap reconstruction​?

Ahead of your operation, it helps to be as fit and healthy as possible. This will help you cope with the operation and recover strength afterwards.  

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What is the recovery period?

During this procedure, you will have had surgery at two sites on your body – your chest and your stomach. This means that your recovery time will be longer than someone who has had a mastectomy alone. You will need to be cared for in hospital for up to seven nights. When you are ready to return home, your breast consultant or specialist nurse will let you know how to manage your recovery. Typically, it takes about six to eight weeks before you can return to your normal activities, including work.   

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Paying for your treatment

We welcome both self-paying and insured patients.

Self-pay patients

We offer several ways for patients to self-pay, including pay-as-you-go, flexible payment options, and self-pay packages.

Find out more about self-pay >

Insured patients

At Cromwell Hospital, we accept private health insurance from most major providers, including AXA, Aviva, Bupa, and Vitality.

How to use your private health insurance >
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Clear self-pay options

As well as working with all major insurance companies, we also welcome patients who wish to pay for themselves. 

Below is an outline of our self-pay hospital price package for this procedure.

Hospital price package

Treatment from £36,570
Includes:
  • Pre-admission tests
  • Private ensuite room (nights subject to package terms)
  • Theatre procedure
  • Meals, nursing care, and discharge medication

Consultant and other fees will apply.

When enquiring, please quote B2986 (unilateral) or B2996 (bilateral).

Ready to take the first step?

Call our self-pay team on ‭+44 (0)20 7244 4886‬

Our locations

Cromwell Hospital

Cromwell Hospital

164-178 Cromwell Road
London SW5 0TU
United Kingdom

+44 (0)20 7460 5700

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Call us now for appointment bookings, general queries, and personalised quotes.

Alternatively, you can contact us using our online form.