Post DIEP care and recovery

Hi

I had a mastectomy with an immediate recon by DIEP a few years ago. I wasn't given much info prior to surgery and did much of the research myself online. Anyway.... having been in your position..... recovery can be slow mostly due to abdominal would. Yes, it looks awful to begin with - it will heal well but you need to look after yourself. No twisting, bending down etc also no lifting of arm on affected side and no repeated actions - includes shaking anything ie duvet, ironing, vacuuming for 6 weeks. (silver lining here). I was stooped for weeks - going up and down stairs sideways, having stools in bathroom to clean my teeth. Things begin to turn the corner at about 3 weeks post op and at 6 weeks post op you can drive again. I put scarf across my lap under seat belt to protect my scar. At 6 weeks post op also massaged Bio oil on scars it helps to loosen them and heal nicely. My horrendous abdominal scar is now just a thin white line - difficult to imagine in the early post op period. Use good post op bra and support knickers 24/7 for 6 weeks and do your exercises religiously and REST, and be patient with yourself. Each week you will be able to do a lot more than the week before - it just takes time. XXXXxxxx

Thank you Moresleep . That's actually very reassuring. I need all the help I can get. We are all different and will heal differently. Your post has made me feel much better re general recovery. So in many respects I'm on track. I feel my abdomen wound is healing really well. Using compression briefs during the day. Now wearing a bra 24/7. Unfortunately, my breast wounds are infected and I was admitted to hospital last night for IV antibiotics and monitoring. Never a dull moment.