Agree DIEP flap is a major surgery. I just had it in December 2023. It looks great and was worth it. Mayo told me on a radiated breast there is a 40% chance of implant rejection, Here is my experience: No cooking, cleaning, laundry or lifting more than 5 pounds for 4 weeks. Slowly add things after 4 weeks So basically no repetitive movements. It can cause you to lose the flap or can collect fluid. Start lifting your arms above your shoulders after 8 weeks. My abs are still sore 6 weeks post op between belly button and bottom of rib cage. It took 3 weeks to stand up straight. Compression garments for 6 weeks. You’ll need lots of help with meals, garbage, pets, laundry. I had some fluid build up in my abdominal incision so I could only get up from chair and do a light 10 minute walk 2x a day for week 3-5. Also they said it would take 8 weeks to get stamina back, maybe longer. My surgery was 13 hrs, it just takes alot out of you.