Hi FreeRangeChick,
Im just 12 months following a DIEP flap reconstruction. I have an appointment next Tuesday to discuss the next step, my tweaking operation, where they'll tidy up areas so they look more normal, and give me a new nipple.
I have found it a challenge and lots of hard work in the recovery process, however one of the best decisions that I have ever made in the moving on process.
I was in hospital for 7 days, the operation took 8 hours and I awoke with a drip, a catheter and 3 drain tubes ( 1 for the new breast and 1 each side of the lower tummy wound ) Nursing staff checked me half hourly for circulation in my new breast and other checks while they were there for the first 2 days. Breast drain came out day 3 and I was allowed out of bed that day. Tummy drains and dressings down on day 5, and I went home day 7. I was encouraged to walk, and that helped heaps.
Once I was home, I was told to not lift or drive for 6 weeks, and had to wear a tummy girdle for about 6 weeks, this helps to reduce any seroma under the tummy wound.
Just keep working on remaining fit by walking and be gentle on yourself. It's a huge thing to do, but in my opinion, worth the effort.
I wish you all the very best, and send you a huge cuddle, Trace xxxx
