Having DIEP mastectomy in 2 wks and want to know how long will I need someone with me after operation (once out of hospital). My husband is trying to work out when he ll be needed and when he can get back to work.
I had a Diep flap reconstruction from my tummy a few months ago. It really all depends on how well you feel after the surgery. I stayed in hospital for 4 nights. They try and get you up out of bed and walking around the day after the surgery. I was very weak so I was only able to get up a couple of days after the surgery. They give you painkillers but the first few times you have to get up it can be very painful. When I got home I either had to sleep in a sitting position or I needed my husband to help me to get out of bed.
I would say it would be best to have someone with you for at least a few days and then see how you do after that. You will probably have a dressings appointment within a week of your discharge from hospital and then weekly dressings appointments after that.
Thanks shortcake74 this is useful. How are you doing now? I have a holiday booked for 9 wks after surgery do you.think I should try and cancel (if I can) and book one at a later date?
I have to say my recovery has been quite slow, I started chemo 6 weeks after the op. It definately depends on the individual but my plastic surgeon said that most people get back normal activities such as driving, exercising 6 - 8 weeks post op so you might be absolutely fine.
I still feel twinges and tightness some days where my tummy is healing and it's been 3 months post op. But like I said I am having chemo so that has delayed my recovery.
i had the same surgery about two months after you and all went well at the beginning but then, after two or three weeks, I developed issues with healing in all three surgical areas so I’m just curious how you’re doing since you’re ahead of me in the process. Did you find yourself having any complications? And how’s the swelling in the abdomen or pubic area, if you had any? Anything you can share that tells me there’s a light at the end of the tunnel wouid be great.
I'm sorry you have been having some issues. I have been really lucky. I healed well. I had one tiny bit of my tummy scar that got a little bit oozy but some antibiotic cream sorted that. My swelling has gone down but i feel uncomfortable if i eat to much so need to eat much small portions.
I have just come back from a week in Croatia. I couldnt swim but I could doggle paddle. I did lots of walking there and we stayed at the top of a hill but it was ok. My breast has healed really well and I start my radiotherapy tmw. I didnt have swelling in pubic area and have been able to have sex (which I know I shouldnt have until after 6 wks) but we were careful. I think that is something people dont always want to talk about but its important to me.
I hope your issues get sorted out before too long. But talk to your breast nurse hopefully she can give you some timeframes related to your issues.
Thanks for the response. So glad to hear all went so well for you and you were able to go on your holiday, that’s awesome. I’m headed to see my family in the US next Friday, just 8 weeks post surgery (it had been booked for six weeks post, had to change that!) and I sadly won’t be able to go in the water at all but I’ll put my toes in. Just seeing my family will make me feel better.
I’ve not utilised the breast nurses at all, I really should take advantage of that resource.
thanks again and I hope you stay on a path to full healing and health.
I have been surrounded by friends and family and I am positive that has helped my recovery and mental state. I am sure being near your family will help.
Have a fab time (with toes in the water) and enjoy being with your family.
