Diep flap reconstruction 12 weeks ago

Evening! I had a right hand mastectomy with immediate diep reconstruction and full axillary sweep in January 22, so I’m just over a year on now. I also am happy with mine but I do also have an area on the outside of the breast under the arm that is still a bit hard and sore to pressure even all this time on, he said it was a small area of fat necrosis but nothing sinister. I was still tender and sore for a while after the operation, I could do most things but it did take a while for it all to fully settle down. Keep doing those arm exercises particularly the ‘batwing’ ones, and massage the hard and swollen areas gently. It does improve with time. I didn’t have what you describe above the belly button though, it felt very tight but not swollen. Are you due a check up with plastics soon? If not maybe ring and see if they can see you and reassure you. I know it varies hugely surgeon to surgeon but they did give me a number after the op and also he told me to call his secretary if I was concerned. It is a hard operation and it does take time to get over but you will get there. You know your body more than anybody else though so if you’re concerned then do contact someone to get it checked xx

Evening!! Thanks for replying. Hmm not got another appointment due until end of April with plastic surgeon. Doctors appointment 1 March. Im going to ring the hospital breast nurse in the morning and arrange an appointment just to settle my mind. Phew its a hard road isn't it!! Good luck to you and thanks again xx 

It is, in one sense you’re amazed you feel so well in only 12 weeks, in others it’s hugely hard work and still uncomfortable!! It’s a huge op! Hope you got hold of them this morning? X