Introduction — Natural Breast Reconstruction, Close to Home
For women facing breast cancer surgery, the journey doesn’t end with mastectomy — it continues with healing, confidence, and renewal. Choosing the right surgeon for DIEP flap breast reconstruction is a deeply personal and important decision.
Across New Hampshire and Southern Maine, The DIEP Group has become the leading choice for women seeking natural, implant-free breast reconstruction, performed by fellowship-trained microsurgeons at Portsmouth Regional Hospital.
Each year, our surgeons perform hundreds of DIEP flap procedures — restoring not just breast shape, but peace of mind, for women throughout the region.
“I had been told I’d need to go to Boston for a DIEP flap. Finding The DIEP Group in Portsmouth changed everything. My surgery went perfectly, and my results look completely natural.”
— Kathleen S., Dover, NH
What Is DIEP Flap Reconstruction?
The Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap is the most advanced form of natural breast reconstruction available today.
This microsurgical procedure uses your own lower abdominal skin and fat — not muscle — to create a new, soft breast. The blood vessels are meticulously reconnected under a microscope to restore circulation and ensure long-term tissue health.
Benefits of DIEP Flap Reconstruction
- 100% natural, no implants or foreign materials
- Soft, warm, and permanent results
- No need for implant exchanges every 10 years
- Safe after radiation or implant complications
- Added abdominal contouring, similar to a tummy tuck
The DIEP Group — New Hampshire’s Center of Excellence
Fellowship-Trained Microsurgeons
Every member of The DIEP Group’s surgical team has completed dedicated microsurgery fellowships, focusing exclusively on breast reconstruction. This level of specialization sets us apart from general plastic surgeons who only occasionally perform these procedures.
High-Volume, Multi-State Expertise
Performing over 200 DIEP flap reconstructions annually, our group is among the most experienced in New England.
Our surgeons operate across multiple states — ensuring that women in New Hampshire, Southern Maine, and Northern Massachusetts have access to this advanced reconstruction without needing to travel to Boston.
Hospital-Based Safety
All surgeries are performed at Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a fully accredited facility with a dedicated microsurgical nursing team and advanced flap monitoring technology.
DIEP Flap Reconstruction vs. Implants
Many women come to The DIEP Group after struggling with complications from implant-based reconstruction — including capsular contracture, tightness after radiation, or cosmetic dissatisfaction.
Why More Patients Are Choosing DIEP Flaps
- Natural look and feel, no foreign material
- No risk of implant rupture or recall
- No cold or hard sensation
- Long-lasting, lifelong results
- Can improve abdominal contour at the same time
When Implants Fail, DIEP Flaps Restore Confidence
Some of our happiest patients are those who switched from implants to natural reconstruction — even years after their original surgery.
“After radiation, my implants became hard and painful. The DIEP flap gave me soft, natural breasts again. I finally feel whole.”
— Rebecca L., Portsmouth, NH
Insurance Coverage in New Hampshire and Maine
Breast reconstruction after mastectomy — including DIEP flap surgery — is always covered by insurance under the Women’s Health and Cancer Rights Act (1998).
The DIEP Group’s insurance specialists handle the entire process for you, from preauthorization to appeals.
Common Insurance Plans in New Hampshire and Maine
Most major private insurance plans are accepted, including:
- Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of NH
- Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
- Tufts Health Plan
- UnitedHealthcare
- Aetna
- Cigna
- MVP Health Care
(We do not participate with Medicaid, Medicare, or Tricare plans.)
This means you can undergo natural breast reconstruction locally — fully covered by insurance — without traveling out of state.
The DIEP Group’s Portsmouth Location
Hospital Partner: Portsmouth Regional Hospital
All DIEP flap surgeries for New Hampshire and Southern Maine patients are performed at Portsmouth Regional Hospital, a premier facility known for its advanced surgical infrastructure and compassionate nursing staff.
Postoperative Stay
Patients typically remain in the hospital for two nights for close monitoring and comfort. Our team provides daily follow-up to ensure a safe, smooth recovery before you return home.
Serving All of New Hampshire and Southern Maine
Women travel from across both states to Portsmouth for their reconstruction — including:
Manchester, Concord, Nashua, Dover, Keene, Rochester, Laconia, Derry, Portland, Biddeford, Saco, York, and Kittery.
For Southern Maine residents, Portsmouth offers a much closer and more specialized option than Boston hospitals — without the long commutes, high costs, or wait times.
“I live in Saco, Maine, and couldn’t find anyone experienced in DIEP flaps locally. The DIEP Group was worth the short drive — it felt like world-class care right next door.”
— Lisa P., Saco, ME
Why The DIEP Group Is the Region’s Trusted Leader
- Board-certified plastic and reconstructive microsurgeons
- Over 200 DIEP flap reconstructions performed each year
- Hospital-based surgeries for safety and comfort
- Insurance-covered care with full preauthorization support
- Collaborative postoperative care with local surgeons
- Compassionate, patient-first communication every step of the way
Conclusion — World-Class Reconstruction, Local Convenience
You don’t need to travel to Boston for the best DIEP flap breast reconstruction.
At The DIEP Group, we bring world-class microsurgical expertise right to Portsmouth Regional Hospital, helping women across New Hampshire and Southern Maine restore confidence through natural, long-lasting breast reconstruction.
“It’s incredible to have this level of expertise here in New Hampshire. The DIEP Group gave me back my confidence and comfort.”
— Heather D., Manchester, NH
The DIEP Group – Portsmouth Regional Hospital
Portsmouth, NH
203-200-0828
