Ask the Doctor- I Am Not Eligible For Diep Surgery. Can I Have Gap Surgery At The Same Time As I Have Both Breasts Removed?

This week, Richard Kline, MD, of The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction answers your question about breast reconstruction.

Question:  I learned from my doctor at MUSC yesterday that I do not have enough fat and am therefore not a candidate for DIEP surgery. He suggested I make an appointment with you before my surgery for mastectomy.  I do not have clean margins in my right breast after lumpectomy and I have chosen to have both breasts removed. If I am eligible for GAP, is there any difference with having it done at the same time or later? I am 70 years old, healthy, an avid tennis player, with no chemo or radiation needed.

Answer: We have done about 300 GAP flaps with a 95.7% success rate. There are actually advantages to having the GAP surgery done at a later date, as it is a much more involved and lengthy surgery than the DIEP.
I would be delighted to see you at any time, evaluate your donor sites, and discuss options in more detail.

Thanks for contacting us, and I look forward to hearing from you.

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