DIEP Breast Reconstruction: What was your recovery like?

Posted by mkefighter @mkefighter, Aug 10, 2024

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?

Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Breast Cancer Support Group.

Christiclint | @txdiepflapusa | 1 day ago

Reading all your experiences has honestly been very helpful and reassuring. My wife is also preparing for a DIEP flap reconstruction, and as her partner, I’m trying to understand everything so I can support her better through this journey. After a lot of research and consultations, we’ve decided to go ahead with the surgery through TXDIEPFLAP , mainly because we feel confident about the doctors and their experience. That decision has given us some peace of mind, but of course, the recovery phase still makes us a bit nervous. One thing that really stands out from all your replies is how important preparation is both physically and mentally. We’ve started focusing on good nutrition and light exercise, and now we’re also considering adding some strength training before surgery. The recovery part, especially abdominal tightness and limited movement, is something we’re mentally preparing for. Your tips about using a recliner, setting up the home in advance, and having support for daily tasks are extremely helpful. I’ll make sure I’m fully ready to support her with everything during those first few weeks. It’s also helpful to hear honest experiences about long-term recovery not always being 100%, but still getting back to a good, active life with PT and consistency. That really helps us set realistic expectations. If anyone has advice specifically for partners or caregivers, I would truly appreciate it what helped you the most during recovery? Wishing strength and healing to everyone here. This journey truly requires a warrior mindset for both patients and their loved ones.

Colleen Young, Connect Director | @colleenyoung | 1 day ago

In reply to @txdiepflapusa "Reading all your experiences has honestly been very helpful and reassuring. My wife is also preparing..." + (show)

@txdiepflapusa, welcome. While not the same surgery, you might find the tips shared on this related dicussion to be helpful:
- Advice on Taking Care of a Spouse after a Mastectomy https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/advice-on-taking-care-of-a-spouse-after-a-mastectomy/

I think you are already doing the most important thing you can do for your wife -- being with her. It's clear that you are researched with her. It sounds like you are open and discuss all aspects of the journey. Keeping the lines of communication open is important. And just be there.