Tram Flap Recovery

Hi E anne

Wow - a reconstruction 17 years after your mastectomy - how inspiring. I'm so glad to hear that you're pleased with the results :)

I thought I would jump on here and let you know about a fabulous information book by the Cancer Council called Understanding Breast Prosthesis and Reconstruction. It's available on their website (to download a copy of the booklet, click the image of the booklet on the right hand side).

In the Recover section, the booklet states:

"After a TRAM flap reconstruction, you should also avoid heavy lifting – including lifting small children – for about six weeks. The surgery will also cause a tightening of the abdomen similar to a ‘tummy tuck’ operation. You may have some weakness in your abdomen, which you may notice when getting up from a low chair or sitting up in bed. Ask your surgeon for advice about getting back to your regular activities."

So it looks like your surgeon may be the best person to advise you on exercises to do, to help with how your tummy is feeling.

I thought I'd also point you towards a couple of other blogs that women have written about TRAM flap recovery -

One blog here - http://www.bcna.org.au/user/9962/blog/44675

And another blog here - http://www.bcna.org.au/user/5265/blog/44057

All the best

~ Annie