post TRAM flap reconstruction

Hi Nadene

Yes, the TRAM flap surgery is FULL ON - and I don't think I was prepared either - I was qutie uncomfortable for  a number of weeks, and I never thought I would stand up straight again. The strain on my back was quite hard to take, and i was terrified of getting a bulging disc because of the way I had to walk (had those before).

Try not to be discouraged - think of it this way: YOU have done most of the hard work already - you are now a few weeks down the track and  have had a magic operation (it still amazes me at the skill of the surgeons and what they have done for me) that gives a really realistic result. Your boobs are probably still quite swollen and tender - but be reassured that by 3 months post-op, they will be soft and really fine - and you will be able to wear normal bras. You also WILL be able to walk without feeling so tight in the belly too - although probably at the moment you are wondering how you are ever going to feel normal again... I think the belly loosening up was one of the things I was really looking forward to. Be assured that TIME will heal things for you - and you just have to be patient and kind to yourself - and KNOW that all will be well.

I guess it doesn't help having had the gall bladder episodes, you poor thing - as if you aren't in enough discomfort.

At night - I used to place pillows under my lower legs, but eventually weaned myself off them. I took lots of regular panadol, and 'restavit' (a sleeping antihistamine) to help me sleep at nights too.

By 5-6 weeks post-op I recovered my energy again - and I'm now over 4 months post op and I feel great! I escaped the chemo as the size of the tumour was small and there was no lymph node involvement - so I elected not to do it (little benefit). So I'm just taking Tamoxifen, which so far hasn't caused me any trouble.

Let me know how you are going.

I hope I've been a little help

Cheers

Christine