We heard that there are many problems post operatively with the reconstructive surgery and many of us are concerned about the possible complications , but if there is any consolation, I just want to share the good news about my breast reconstruction surgery and recovery. I hope this would add to the positiveness of those who are going to have this operation. Yes, we can do it girls.
Before I had the mastectomy I was asked what kind of immediate reconstruction do I wish to have. I trawled various websites and gathered many information and finally decided on DIEP (or nothing). I was told by various consultants that it would be a major surgery and was told all possible complications (seroma, infection, flap failure, long recovery, long anesthesia risk, possible coming home with the drains, infection, etc, etc). Every surgery has risks, so although I was weary but accepted those risks and decided to go ahead - as I was deemed a suitable candidate for DIEP. I am 56 and slim, non smoker (my surgeon made sure that each of his patient is not smoking).
I have my unilateral mastectomy on 8th Oct but the surgery took much longer than anticipated. More than 15 hours (went in to the theatre at 8.30 until 12.30 midnight, back in the ward at 2.30 morning)! There was a complication with the perforators (veins) during the operation. My chest/breast vein was too small and when connected to the flap, the blood flow was poor. So my plastic surgeon in the theatre decided to re-do the surgery by harvesting a vein from my left arm to use. Because it is a highly complex micro surgery it took a very long time, but in the end it was successful. My flap receives good blood flow.
I have to be honest that although I felt awful after the surgery, I did not have pain. I recovered pretty fast on the 3rd day. The surgeon was surprised to see me on day 4 looking “alive” and well. You would be surprise, a good dry wash and a change of clothes with a little lipstick boost your look 
. All drains were out on day 4 and I was able to walk freely to and from bathroom, to the corridor, etc. it was not a long walk as my back hurts from hunching forward.
I was allowed to go home on day 5 (2 days earlier than scheduled) when both the breast and the plastic surgeons were happy with my recovery.
It is 3 weeks after my surgery now. I gained strength each day, I am able to walk around the house, garden with no problem. I am able to do small chores at home. I am very fortunate that I dont have seroma, lymphodema or infection. yesterday my surgeon was so pleased to see my progress. Although I understand that no driving for 6 weeks, but I feel strong now and may be able to drive before then.
I know that I am lucky, but I am sure I am not the only one. I just hope that this information gives you a bit of boosting and positive feeling, that despite this major surgery, a quick recovery is possible.
Tips: always use anti bacterial soap/gel to wash your hands before touching or changing dressing, I spray my armpit stiches (where they cut for the lymph nodes removal) with antiseptic each day then pat dry. This is a very uncomfortable wound, keeping infection away is a must.
Always sleep with two pillow under your thigh the first 3 weeks. Vitamin C helps to heal, drink plenty of water.
Wishing those who are going through this type of operation, a speedy and good recovery.