Introduction — Bringing Advanced Breast Reconstruction to Upstate New York
For women across Upstate New York — from Albany to Saratoga Springs, Troy, and Utica — access to advanced, natural breast reconstruction has historically meant traveling downstate or to Boston.
The DIEP Group has changed that.
Our fellowship-trained microsurgeons now perform DIEP flap breast reconstruction at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany, making us one of the only high-volume microsurgical teams in all of Upstate New York offering this state-of-the-art, insurance-covered procedure.
“I live in Saratoga Springs and couldn’t find anyone offering DIEP flap surgery nearby. The DIEP Group made it possible for me to have reconstruction close to home — and my results are better than I ever imagined.”
— Laura G., Saratoga Springs, NY
What Is DIEP Flap Reconstruction?
The Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap is the most advanced technique in breast reconstruction. It uses your own abdominal skin and fat to recreate a soft, natural breast — without removing or damaging muscle.
During the procedure, the microsurgeon reconnects tiny blood vessels from the lower abdomen to the chest using high-powered microscopes, ensuring excellent blood flow and healing.
Why Women Choose DIEP Flaps
- 100% natural — no implants or synthetic materials
- Feels soft and warm, like natural breast tissue
- Permanent — no risk of rupture or replacement
- Ideal after radiation or failed implants
- Provides a tummy tuck-like contouring benefit
The DIEP Group — Upstate New York’s Leading Microsurgical Team
Expertise in the Region
DIEP flap reconstruction requires advanced microsurgical training and extensive experience.
The DIEP Group’s fellowship-trained microsurgeons perform over 200 DIEP flaps every year across multiple states, making our team one of the most experienced in the Northeast.
Board-Certified, Fellowship-Trained Surgeons
Each DIEP Group surgeon is board-certified in plastic surgery and fellowship-trained in microsurgical breast reconstruction — focusing exclusively on natural, implant-free techniques.
Collaborative, Hospital-Based Care
All procedures are performed at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany, where our team works alongside local oncologists, breast surgeons, and plastic surgeons to deliver seamless, coordinated care from consultation to recovery.
“I met with other surgeons who said my case was too complex. The DIEP Group team didn’t hesitate — they made me feel safe, capable, and hopeful again.”
— Tina P., Troy, NY
DIEP Flap vs. Implants — A Permanent, Natural Alternative
Many women across Upstate New York come to The DIEP Group after experiencing problems with implant-based reconstruction, such as:
- Capsular contracture (hard, painful scar tissue)
- Implant rupture or leakage
- Distortion after radiation therapy
- Cold, unnatural feel
- Animation deformity (movement with muscle flexion)
- Recalled textured implants
Why DIEP Flaps Are Better
- No implants to replace or recall
- Soft, natural, and body-warm
- Long-lasting, lifetime result
- Improves abdominal contour
- Resistant to radiation effects
“After radiation, my implant was tight and uncomfortable. Switching to DIEP flaps gave me a completely natural look and feel.”
— Amanda K., Albany, NY
Insurance Coverage for DIEP Flap Surgery
DIEP flap reconstruction is covered by all major private insurance plans under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (1998) — whether it’s done:
- Immediately after mastectomy
- Months or years later
- To replace failed implants
Common Insurance Providers in Upstate New York
- BlueCross BlueShield of Western & Northeastern NY
- MVP Health Care
- Aetna
- Cigna
- Empire BlueCross
- UnitedHealthcare
- CDPHP
(The DIEP Group does not participate with Medicaid, Medicare, or Tricare plans.)
Our insurance team manages all preauthorization and documentation to ensure your surgery is covered — and your peace of mind is protected.
DIEP Flap Surgery at St. Peter’s Hospital in Albany
Advanced Care, Close to Home
All Upstate New York surgeries are performed at St. Peter’s Hospital, a regional leader in complex surgery and women’s health.
Our team has established a dedicated DIEP flap program with specialized nursing staff, monitoring technology, and microsurgical expertise.
Hospital Stay
Patients typically stay two nights for postoperative recovery and flap monitoring.
“I was impressed with how well-coordinated everything was at St. Peter’s. The DIEP Group handled every detail — from insurance to recovery.”
— Rachel F., Colonie, NY
Areas We Serve in Upstate New York
The DIEP Group proudly provides advanced breast reconstruction to patients from:
Albany, Troy, Saratoga Springs, Schenectady, Clifton Park, Colonie, Poughkeepsie, and Utica.
We are one of the only centers in the entire Upstate region performing DIEP flap surgery at this level of specialization and frequency.
For patients in Utica and Syracuse, Albany is the closest destination for high-volume microsurgical reconstruction — saving hours of travel time compared to New York City or Boston.
“I live in Utica, and no one near me performed DIEP flaps. The Albany team made it possible for me to stay in-state and get the best care.”
— Marissa J., Utica, NY
The DIEP Group Advantage
- Over 200 DIEP flaps annually across the Northeast
- Fellowship-trained microsurgeons with national expertise
- Hospital-based, team-oriented reconstruction
- Insurance-covered surgery and authorization support
- Revision options for failed or radiated implant reconstructions
- Personalized, compassionate care every step of the way
We’re proud to offer Upstate New York women the same advanced reconstruction available at major academic centers — delivered locally and personally.
Why The DIEP Group Is the Choice for Upstate Women
Until recently, there were limited options for Upstate New York patients needing or desiring DIEP flap surgery. Now, with The DIEP Group at St. Peter’s Hospital, women can stay close to home while receiving national-level care.
We’ve combined academic expertise with community-based accessibility, creating a trusted program that restores confidence, femininity, and peace of mind.
“I didn’t want to go to New York City for surgery. The DIEP Group gave me world-class results right here in Albany.”
— Patricia E., Clifton Park, NY
Conclusion — Advanced Reconstruction, Locally Available
If you’re searching for some of the best DIEP flap surgeons in Upstate New York, you no longer need to leave your region.
At The DIEP Group, our board-certified microsurgeons provide natural, long-lasting breast reconstruction for women across Albany, Troy, Saratoga, and beyond.
Restoration, comfort, and confidence are closer than you think.
The DIEP Group – Upstate New York Division
St. Peter’s Hospital – Albany, NY
203-200-0828
