I am due to have a mastectomy next week, and have been given the option of a DIEP bipedicle flap reconstruction.
I ride horses for my sport and hobby and it is an important part of my life.
I have been advised by the plastic surgeon that my stomach muscles will be weakened by the surgery as they cut through them to perform this surgery. My concern is whether I will be strong enough to continue riding after the surgery. If I can ride, even after several months off, then this is ok. It's the long term that i'm concerned about.
Unfortunately the surgeon cannot advise on this, so I was hoping that someone on this group may have had the same procedure done & that they can let me know how they are physically since.
Thank you,
Olivia
Until someone gets here with answers, a thought comes to mind. Since this specific angle is not about cancer but about certain muscles as they relate to the sport activity, would a doctor who specialises in sport be able to give a better prediction, based specifically on your own circumstances? While this may not be available on the NHS, perhaps it is worth exploring privately?
Hi Olivia
I’m not sure about the bipedicle bit but I had diep reconstruction in December. My CT before op showed that my blood supply wasn’t great so the ps thought he might need to cut into my stomach muscle but fortunately he didn’t. I’m 12 weeks post surgery now and haven’t noticed any lack of strength in my abs. It does take time to heal but I feel like I am almost back to normal now. I think the problem is that they don’t know if they need to cut the muscle until they do the procedure so it would be hard to say for sure. Sorry, that’s probably not much help! Good luck with whatever you decide.
I don’t ride but I do run 10,000 steps (approx 5 miles per day) and was advised not to run but walk for at least the first 6 weeks. The pressure of the bounce could cause the internal/external healing process to be disrupted. Also without a bra I found it too painful..couldn’t wear a bra for a while because of the irritating dissolving stitches under my armpit. All good now!
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