Diep flap recovery - can I live alone during recovery?

Had a meeting with surgeon & I need a mastectomy with diep flap reconstruction.

Breast care nurse told me that, as I live alone, I need someone to stay with me after surgery "in case you can't get out of bed & to cook" She has suggested my mum. I've been thinking about it for a while & I really don't want any9ne staying with me. My mum is elderly & would not be able to help me out of bed. If I cant cook I'm happy to do microwave meals for a fortnight until I am able to.

I will have daily visitors, just noone able to stay overnight.

What's everyone's experience of recovery? Would I be able to stay alone during recovery?

  • Hello Luskentyre1

    I can see that you've already posted in our Ask the Nurses topic area about this subject and had some advice from Nurse Julia. 

    I'm sorry that you've not had any responses from members who have undergone this surgery. You might want to post a message on this thread by [@Janeymoon]‍ who recently shared some of her experiences with a DIEP surgery. 

    I can see that we have a few ladies who have posted about upcoming surgeries but very few who have posted about their experiences You may have more luck connecting with women who have had this procedure through a cancer-specific forum such as the one hosted by Breast Cancer Now

    Whatever decision you make moving forwards, the important thing is that you have the support you need to help make your recovery go as smoothly as possible. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator