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DIEP Flap pros and cons?

Posted by maureenmckean @maureenmckean, Nov 20 4:31pm

My friend had a mastectomy for one breast. She’s considering this surgery but would like feedback from those that had it. She is mostly excited about the tummy tuck benefit. Anyone who can share their experience or tips are much appreciated.

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Mentor
Laurie, Volunteer Mentor | @roch | Nov 21 8:22am

@maureenmckean,

I have not had DIEP but it has been discussed on this group in few places. It is major surgery and would not do just to have a tummy tuck. Here is link to a search that has discussions about DIEP.
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/search/?search=DIEP

REPLY
sedonadreaming | @sedonadreaming | Nov 21 5:12pm

I have had DIEP flap surgery. I had a good experience with surgery and immediate recovery, but like every surgery there's chance for complications and I had some wound healing issues. I am in need of some further surgery (as initial DIEP is usually just to remove cancer and get a flap placed, not the prettying up or cleaning up of things). The trouble I am having now is getting it scheduled. It was scheduled, then anesthesia decided no, cancelled my procedure and now I am sitting eternally waiting for an answer from the scheduler. I hear so many complain that once the cancer is dealt with, you get dropped like a hot rock and that is truly how it feels. So, if your friend does it, be prepared for a long road, potentially. Would I make the same decision if I had to do it again? Yes, not a doubt.

REPLY
1 reply
maureenmckean | @maureenmckean | Nov 21 8:07pm
In reply to @sedonadreaming "I have had DIEP flap surgery. I had a good experience with surgery and immediate recovery,..." + (show)
@sedonadreaming

I have had DIEP flap surgery. I had a good experience with surgery and immediate recovery, but like every surgery there's chance for complications and I had some wound healing issues. I am in need of some further surgery (as initial DIEP is usually just to remove cancer and get a flap placed, not the prettying up or cleaning up of things). The trouble I am having now is getting it scheduled. It was scheduled, then anesthesia decided no, cancelled my procedure and now I am sitting eternally waiting for an answer from the scheduler. I hear so many complain that once the cancer is dealt with, you get dropped like a hot rock and that is truly how it feels. So, if your friend does it, be prepared for a long road, potentially. Would I make the same decision if I had to do it again? Yes, not a doubt.

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Thank you so much for your reply. I’m glad you don’t have any regrets. My friend doesn’t have the healthiest lungs and I worry about her being under for a long surgery and then potentially needing additional. Not to mention eating up her sick time.

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