Hi
I was diagnosed with a grade 2 Invasive ductile carcinoma in February 2023. I was due to have a lumpectomy but the MRI showed a further tumour which was grade 1. I was then told I required a mastectomy of my left breast. I have opted for an immediate reconstruction, (DIEP)
I feel as though I’ve been waiting ages but I know in the grand scheme of things I haven’t. Since my diagnosis I haven’t coped well. I’m due to have surgery on Monday 17th April and I’m terrified. I have a supportive family and I’m trying to be brave for them but the nearer the surgery comes, the harder I’m finding everything.
Can anyone offer me some advice on how I can cope with the anxiety? Also, does anyone have any practical advice about their experience of the DIEP procedure?
Hi there, I really hope your surgery goes well.
I had a bilateral diep flap in 2016. This was following a bilateral reconstruction using false implants that went wrong. So this was my only choice. The cut was made hip to hip and healed surprisingly quickly. It is a tough road but you will manage well. I suggest you do all the exercises that physio. Be prepared for ‘dog eat. Which is a flap of skin that is created by the scar on the side. This will be removed at a later date but is easily disguised. I used a chair to sit on when showering, but this was only for a week or so. Be prepared to feel numb in the breast that you are having the surgery. 7 years on and I have no feeling from the scar across my belly to just above my breat area. All I feel is pressure. However do take note that I have both of mine done. When you are feeling anxious remind yourself that they are taking the cancer away. Let your family know that you are frightened and are very anxious. You have enough to deal with, ask questions and if you don’t understand, tell them. It’s all too easy for them to slip into medical jargon. All the best for tomorrow x
Hope your surgery went well on Monday & that you’re recovering well.
Dear meebie
I had diep reconstruction on 8 Sept 2023. I rolled out of bed, did lots of physio exercises to improve movement in my arm on the side of the recon. I also got two walking poles that could be folded up so I could go on buses with them.; Needless to say I kept forgetting them and never use them now.
After surgery once I got a bit more mobile I went up to a club up the road and did disco dancing round my handbag as I’m 67 this provided some amusement to the locals. We’ve lived here for 5 years and I have only been there four times as we don’t drink.
I kept walking every day and I am now pretty good. We go for forty minute walks round the countryside with our dog every day. I go over about six stiles every day so I must be ok physically apart from the psychological effect of surgery.
That’s been helped by having a warm breast which my husband says he thinks is better than the one it replaced… he says he really means it.
Seagulls