Hi Everyone,
Ive just had a delayed breast reconstruction -DIEP. It is two years since my masectomy and 22 months since rads. My reconstruction was delayed due to the rads but I delayed it further as the Herceptin has affected my heart so on heart meds and I wanted to have time to recover from all the treatment.
You definately need a plastic surgeon who specialises in this reconstruction. I also chose to go to a specialist regional centre where DIEPS are routinely undertaken. Am glad I did this the staff and surgeons have been fantastic. Im receiving great aftercare. Only been home a week so early days but have been fine with lots of pain relive so can keep moving. Was told to keep talkng it as being in pain just stops you moving and that slows healing. Make sure you have laxatives too as pain relieve such as codeine is terrible for constipation.....am using lactulose which works for me.
Am able to self care but avoiding any lifting. I have never had any dressings on my wounds -they used glue to seal them -amazing!!! The wounds are healing well so been told at clinic they dont need to see me until August now -fingers crossed progress continues to be straightforward.
Been using loose fitting pjs and loose fitting cheap stretchy yoga pants. Am ok with putting on/off loose t shirts and loose sleeveless tops but also have button up shirts/cardi to hand if needed. Bought cheap shapewear from Sainsburys -you wear it 24hrs a day so need several pairs. Mine cost £6 each so no need to buy the expensive stuff. Am using my masectomy bras but bought bra extenders......been fine! Will treat myself to some lovely new bras when fully recovered.
Ive found the U pillow and wedge plus loads of pillows great for getting a comfortable postion in bed at home as have to sleep on my back. I put two pillows under my knees at night for comfort but I can lay my legs flat and its good to gently gradually encourage to strech your legs flat if you can as this will help with standing up straight (doc told me this) but I dont sleep like that! My bed is a good height -ie when sat on bed my feet are flat on floor but knees at right angles as recommended by the specialsit nurse. This has enabled me to get in and out of bed on my own. Ive a set of wooden drawers with TV on and can reach stuff on there plus a hard tray on the bed beside me to put stuff. Really helps! Walk in shower a must! Managed stairs easily. Definately worth swimming and walking before this op to build tummy muscles as Nurses tell me my ability to stand up straight away is down to strong tummy muscles. I am no fitness freak though by a long chalk....my adult sons laughed when I told them as they know how unfit I really am!!
initially a water bottle or glass with straw is helpful if your laying semi flat but am using ordinary tall glasses now. Drink loads of water!!! Good for healing but also helps with constipation. Am also eating dried prunes...lol.
Been doing lost of little walks round house / garden. But will start a little walk to cafe and back this coking week.
Lots of rest though too!!
Ive got people around me for the first two weeks as I do tire really easily and need naps! Lol... And its comforting knowing someone is around to support.....help out with doing the shopping washing and cooking. I have a cleaner coming in and someone to cut my lawn and will be shopping online once my little support group have gone and am on my own once more. Pharmacy will deliver meds.
Ive been lucky so far but wanted to write this positive response as so often posts are from people not faring well.
Am delighted so far with my new breast......far far better than I was expecting.....and its a 'f' cup -dont know how they managed that!! Just fingers crossed recovery continues smoothly.
Good luck hope your DIEP goes well.....xx 😊😊
