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DIEP Breast Reconstruction: What was your recovery like?
Hello everyone,
For multiple reasons I have decided to have the DIEP procedure done on the left breast. I have researched and consulted with my provider on this, however, would like to know more from those who have had this done.
What makes me the most nervous is the recovery. What helped you get through the toughest moments? What did you experience that wasn't expected? Tips for preparing my home to make things easier. I anticipate sleeping in a recliner to start, I don't have a lift chair and wonder if a regular recliner will be enough. Any helpful thoughts and ideas are much appreciated.
In waiting for my surgery date, I have been preparing my body by eating high protien and nutrient dense foods and staying active in the martial arts. I am 53, post menopause, and taking an estrogen surpressing hormone therapy. The risk of hernia and buldge around the incision site make me nervous, however, this procedure is the best option for me in the long run. After your surgery/recovery time, how have you bounced back from it all? Any trouble in the abdomen area? Breast area? Any shoulder issues after restrictions?
How does one maintain a "warrior" mindset in this part of the cancer journey?
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I had a DIEP flap attempted and conjunction with a VLNT surgery, so my post surgical issues were more complicated. The DIEP flap was not successful for me, and only for me, because they could not locate enough arteries to use to provide blood supply to the flap. So one day later, the flap was removed. My total recovery time was well over 10 days, when I reached the 30 day mark, I was cleared to return home as my surgery as well was out of state. During the 5 1/2 weeks I stayed near the hospital. I had health nurses come in at least once a week and my husband was with me the rest of the time. part of the recovery time is because of the need to harvest the tissue, for me from my abdomen. In addition to the surgical activity on your chest, you also have surgical activity on another part of your body so you have two separate areas that need time to heal. I would double check to make sure that your window is only 10 days. We rented an Airbnb and stayed there for a six week window.
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3 ReactionsYes I had my bilateral mastectomy Last June & finished my radiation in August.
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1 Reaction@linabazzi28, I'd like to add my welcome. I'm tagging fellow members like @sharonemma @sedonadreaming @clynnford @seathink @mari @jillianb who can share more about their recovery from deep inferior epigastric perforator (DIEP) flap surgery.
Lina, have you found accommodation and caregiving services for post surgery? What questions do you have as you prepare for surgery?
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1 ReactionDefinitely agree with your plan to get a caregiver and nurse. It will be very helpful to have someone there to help you with showering, getting dressing, getting food or heating it up, help with meds and going to the bathroom. Getting the binder on and off to go to the bathroom takes some effort. My sister stayed with me a few days post release from the hospital overnight but I had people come and go and check on me for days after that. See if you can get a recliner in your stay. It’s easier to use than the bed at the start. Let me know what questions you have.
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2 ReactionsHi Colleen, not yet. I’ve been exploring different options. Most likely will stay at the Kahler hotel. There’s a private company that provides special care & requesting a minimum of 3 hours to come &check on me. (65-75$ per hour) which is kinda costly. I’m just wondering if I’m able to be on my own after I’m discharged.
Did you contact someone at Mayo Clinic's concierge services as @roch suggested? https://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide/minnesota/concierge-services
There are some options listed in these discussions too:
- How can I hire a caregiver while in treatment at Mayo Clinic https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/hiring-a-caregiver/
- Need Help Getting To Hotel Post Surgery https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/need-help-getting-to-hotel-post-surgery
I’m having mine in Scottsdale. How do I find a caregiver and nurse from that location?
@razorbackash1982, I recommend contacting Mayo Clinic's Concierge Services. They may be able to help.
- Mayo Clinic Concierge Services https://www.mayoclinic.org/patient-visitor-guide/minnesota/concierge-services
Another option is to speak with an oncology social worker:
- How an Oncology Social Worker Can Help https://connect.mayoclinic.org/blog/cancer-education-center/newsfeed-post/how-an-oncology-social-worker-can-help/
When will you be having your procedure?
Hi everyone,
I had my DIEP flap surgery at Mayo Clinic this past July, and I’m now almost five weeks post-surgery. I’m so happy with the results so far and grateful to be on the road to recovery.
For those of you who’ve had the DIEP flap at Mayo — how did you feel after six months? Did your belly go back to feeling and looking like it did before surgery, or does it stay more like a tummy tuck even after one year or two years?
I know keeping a flat tummy depends a lot on nutrition and lifestyle, but I’d really appreciate any recommendations or feedback from your own experiences.
Looking forward to connecting and learning from you!
@linabazzi28 Hi there. Did you have a mastectomy at the same time as the DIEP? My breast surgeon's nurse is telling me they don't do that, but I have heard others on here say that it can be done, so I am confused. I haven't been able to meet with the plastic surgeon first. How are you feeling now?