First reconstructive surgery of its type at LRMC
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Lakeway Regional Medical Center (LRMC) today announced the successful completion of the first double mastectomy and DIEP Flap reconstruction surgery performed on its campus.
The DIEP Flap procedure was performed by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Robert Whitfield, M.D., of Austin. Dr. Whitfield will be one of the lead physicians directing the future development of a Breast Care Center at LRMC.
The DIEP Flap procedure was performed on an otherwise healthy 43-year old female patient with invasive cancer, for which she was genetically predisposed. During the reconstruction surgery, Dr. Whitfield isolated blood vessels called deep inferior epigastric perforators (DIEP), leaving the skin and fat connected to them, from the patient’s lower abdomen and transferred them to the chest for reconstruction. The perforators, tissue and skin, collectively referred to as the flap, were then connected to the patient’s blood vessels using a microscope. The tissue was then shaped to create the new breasts.
The DIEP Flap procedure offers a number of advantages to those considering breast reconstruction following a single or double mastectomy. Because abdominal muscles are preserved during the surgery, the patient experiences less post-surgery pain, a lower risk of losing abdominal strength and a faster recovery. In addition, breasts reconstructed using the body’s own tissue will offer a more natural look and feel that matures and changes as the body ages.
DIEP Flap is a highly complex surgery, and LRMC is one of only four medical facilities in Central Texas that offer the procedure. It is performed only by Board Certified Plastic Surgeons with experience and skill in this specialized surgery.
About Lakeway Regional Medical Center
Lakeway Regional Medical Center (LRMC) is a state-of-the-art medical campus dedicated to the delivery of world-class healthcare. LRMC provides services in emergency medicine, neurosurgery, orthopedics, neurology, cardiology, general surgery, gastroenterology and women’s health. For more information about LRMC, visit LakewayRegional.com or call 512-571-5000.
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