There is a good group on Facebook called diep reconstruction uk. I found this very helpful when I had a smx and diep in august,  very honest accounts are given and some photos too so you get a good idea of what the op and result will be like from people who have been through it rather than some cartoon pictures in a pamphlet. I didn't find it awful , it's a big op so you know you have had it and I did have healing issues from the abdo wound but it all settles. Good luck!