DIEP Flap: An Amazing Breast Reconstruction Procedure Enhances Self-Esteem

For Lauren Raccio, breast cancer treatment at Yale Medicine started because her life was in danger. After surgery to remove the cancer, surgeons performed a remarkable breast reconstruction procedure called DIEP flap.

Instead of using silicone implants, the breasts are recreated using fatty tissue from the abdomen. The result is a breast that looks and feels natural, and is more resilient to radiation after surgery. 

Her surgeon, Brigid Killelea, MD, knew that saving Lauren’s life was about more than the medicine. Like many breast cancer survivors, Lauren wanted to feel whole again.