Hi all, can anybody shed light on having had a mastectomy with breast reconstruction using DIEP using abdominal skin and fat. I'm due to see the plastic surgeon tomorrow. I'm feeling really anxiousand worried as it a big major surgery ️
Hi there/ thoughts and best wishes to you. I had diep surgery in late October for 2 hormone affected tumours. I had to have a hysterectomy for a tumour in my uterus six weeks later. I’m still here 52 and don’t consider myself to be remotely strong. I remember feeling very reassured after speaking to the surgeon about the diep - they care about how you will look and feel and work to match the breasts. I mmm was a bit tearful befoe surgery time but I felt like I recovered from the Diep quicker than the 2 hr surgery for a hysterectomy. They will want you up and out of bed and moving v quickly. It feels odd at first but just do a little bit every day. The first 24 hrs after surgery are tough but you will get through it. I can’t believe how clever the surgery is , it’s major but you’ll be surprised by how quickly you adapt and heal. Do listen to the physio even if you initially want to punch them.
Thank you Jane 52 for those reassuring words from your own experience. It's just I'm worried about the recovery part of the surgery. Actually, really scared. But will take your words as some reassurance. I'm sure the surgeon will give me more information tomorrow
Try to get walking and moving as soon as possible but really listen to your body. Everyone is going to be different but you will be surprised at your own strength. Your breast surgery nurses will give you advice and reassurance and you’ll see them regularly after surgery to help with the dressings, scars and healing. I sincerely wish you the best xx
M&S do some that come up over your belly button which means they don’t dig in. Get them as seamless as possible. Wasn’t looking forward to wearing them but you get used to them
and worried as it a big major surgery 
