Stacked Flap

Stacked Flap℠ breast reconstruction uses the tissue flap to recreate a soft, natural breast for women facing mastectomy after breast cancer. An autologous breast reconstruction procedure, Stacked Flap℠ breast reconstruction is performed when the tummy tissue is too thin for an ordinary DIEP Flap or APEX Flap℠ procedure. This produces a larger breast and allows the incision in the tummy to be kept lower in the bikini line.

In most circumstances, the Stacked Flap℠ procedure can be done on the same day as the mastectomy; this is known as “immediate reconstruction.” For women with previous mastectomies, the Stacked DIEP Flap℠ may be performed after treatment. This is known as “delayed reconstruction.”

Most women are candidates for immediate reconstruction, so speaking with your team prior to your mastectomy about reconstruction is important.

Occasionally, a “bridging implant” reconstruction is used before DIEP breast reconstruction. This allows women with more advanced diseases requiring radiation treatment to benefit from skin sparing or a Nipple Sparing Mastectomy.

There are several benefits of the Stacked DIEP Flap℠ reconstruction technique. The recreation of the breast with soft, warm, living fat is permanent and doesn’t require maintenance imaging or repeat surgeries. For women who’ve undergone mastectomy in the past, stacked DIEP flaps allow for the avoidance of tissue expanders.

An important benefit of the Stacked Flap℠ over the TRAM Flap or other outdated procedures is that the abdominal muscle is protected and core strength is preserved. This allows for the avoidance of placing artificial mesh into the abdomen and prevents hernias and long-term abdominal weakness.

Women who undergo the Stacked Flap℠ breast reconstruction also benefit from improved abdominal shape, much like a “tummy tuck.” Taking less fat from each side and using this layering technique also allows the donor incision to be kept lower than is otherwise possible.

This produces an associated flatter, tighter abdomen, which is a nice compliment to the newly reconstructed breast.

As with any surgery, the risks of stacked flaps can be minimized by carefully following your pre-surgical instructions. If you have other medical problems or factors that increase your risk, we will work with you to educate you on proper preparation and arrange your clinical care regimen to maximize your safety and ensure a successful recovery.

PRE-SURGERY OFFICE VISIT

In most cases, you will be seen in our office 1-2 days prior to your Stacked Flap℠ breast reconstruction. At that time, we will go over the planned procedure, review consents, answer any questions you may have, and apply any surgical planning markings as may be required.

THE OPERATION

When you arrive at St. Charles Surgical Hospital, you will be escorted to the preoperative holding area, where you will change into a gown and be given foot coverings. The nurse or anesthesiologist will start an IV so that fluids and necessary medications may be given to you. Family members will be allowed to visit with you in the preoperative area once you are prepared for surgery.

Your procedure will be performed in a state-of-the-art operating suite that is part of a fully accredited hospital that has been recognized by the American College of Surgeons for Excellence in care quality. Highly trained professionals using the most modern equipment and techniques will attend to you.

In addition to your surgeons, the surgical team includes anesthesiologists, operating room technicians, nurses, and physician assistants.

AFTER YOUR PROCEDURE

After your surgery is complete, you will awaken in the recovery room under warm blankets with a dedicated nursing attendant at your side. You will be carefully monitored and kept comfortable. You will then be transferred to a private inpatient room that is prepared to allow you to rest and recover under the supervision of your attending physician and nurses. One adult caregiver may stay with you overnight during your hospitalization. A fold-out Murphy bed will be integrated into your room for individualized comfort.