DIEP flap monitoring explained: what, why & how
From surgical signs to patient peace of mind, Dr Joe Dusseldorp breaks down what flap monitoring involves and why it matters for your recovery.
For patients who choose flap-based breast reconstruction like DIEP, one of the biggest sources of anxiety is the fear that something could go wrong with the flap after surger and it “fails”.
In this episode of Rewritten Me, I speak with leading reconstructive plastic surgeon Dr Joe Dusseldorp about what flap-based reconstruction involves, how the flap is monitored in the hours and days after surgery and what signs surgical teams watch for to support flap health.
Dr Joe also shares details of a new trial to test a device called T-Stat, which is designed to support flap monitoring. He’s presenting the findings at the 2025 ASPS Plastic Surgery Congress this week.
This episode will help you feel more informed during a time when you might feel out of control. And it's a powerful reminder that understanding what flap-based reconstruction is, what’s involved post-op and what recovery really looks like is all part of informed decision-making - a key aspect of self-advocacy.
Listen to this episode
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If you’ve found any of the content upsetting, please reach out and get help. Breast Cancer Network Australia has a free confidential helpline – 1800 500 258. Beyond Blue has a range of free resources online, or you can call them 24/7 on 1300 224 636.
