Welcome to the Center for Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction, your trusted source for SIEA Flap breast reconstruction in New Orleans, LA, and Southwest Florida. Led by renowned surgeon Dr. Hugo St. Hilaire and his experienced team, we are proud to offer over 15 years of expertise in this specialized field.
At our center, we believe in utilizing advanced microsurgical techniques that harness the patient's own tissue for breast reconstruction. This innovative approach not only provides natural-looking results but also minimizes the risk of complications.
What sets us apart is our holistic, integrative care approach. We understand that breast reconstruction is not just a physical journey but also an emotional one. Our compassionate staff is dedicated to providing personalized care, addressing the unique needs and concerns of each patient throughout their entire treatment process.
If you’re ready to experience the best SIEA Flap surgery New Orleans has to offer, join us at the Center for Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction. Schedule a consultation and let us help you restore confidence and reclaim your life.
Like the DIEP Flap procedure, SIEA Flap reconstruction surgery replaces the skin and soft tissue removed at mastectomy with soft, warm, living tissue by borrowing skin and fatty tissue from the abdomen.
For some women, the blood vessels just under the skin in the lower abdomen may be chosen as the feeding vessels for the required tissue. The procedure is otherwise the same as the DIEP flap:
Unlike conventional TRAM flap reconstructions, the use of our refined perforator flap techniques allows for the collection of this tissue without sacrificing underlying abdominal muscles. In fact, the use of the superficial vessels in SIEA Flap reconstruction allows for complete avoidance of the abdominal muscles because the blood vessels used do not travel within the muscle. The vessels supplying the lower abdominal tissue are preserved, and the transferred skin and fat are transformed into a new breast mound.
SIEA Flap microsurgery breast reconstruction offers several benefits. It allows for the use of natural tissue, resulting in a more natural-looking and feeling breast. It also avoids the need for muscle sacrifice, leading to a quicker recovery time and reduced complications. Additionally, SIEA Flap microsurgery preserves abdominal muscles, minimizing the risk of abdominal wall weakness or hernia.
While every patient's recovery may vary, a typical hospital stay for SIEA flap surgery lasts about 48 hours.
For many women, the reconstructed breast may be firmer and have a more youthful appearance than their natural breasts. The reconstructed breast will also remain consistent in size and shape, while the natural breasts may change over time. SIEA Flap microsurgery often produces a more symmetrical result than other breast reconstruction procedures, which can help improve overall body balance and aesthetic results.
Like the DIEP procedure, lower abdominal tissue is harvested during the SIEA Flap procedure, leaving a thin scar and a flat belly (very much like a tummy tuck). The scar will fade over time and is usually not visible in most clothing. Most patients report that the scar is barely noticeable after one year post-surgery.
It’s easy to schedule your first free consultation with Dr. St. Hilaire and the Center for Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction. Just fill out our online form, and we’ll determine together if you’re a candidate for surgery. We’re excited to meet you!