DIEP 2011

DIEP for me on Jan 12th in New York (Dr Ahn).

I have a consult with PS in Feb. so hoping for a DIEP ASAP after that.. It's a little daunting this surgery.  It is so long and complicated.  I'm nervous, but excited at the same time.  I can't wait to get back to "normal"

Ray, is it a bilateral or unilateral DIEP reconstruction?  I had a unilateral DIEP in Oct 2008, and it is not an easy recovery.  Your breasts probably won't hurt, but, boy, that hip-to-hip incision is going to be uncomfortable.  It will be hard to stand up straight and walk straight, but you'll want to start trying early on.  I always felt worse by the evening -- my stomach was so distended and felt like it was sitting on my chest.  Constipated as well.  I was off work for four weeks (it's longer for bilateral recon) and thought by week three there was no way I could go back to work in another week.  But I did.  I remember telling my brother for several months afterwards that this whole "tummy tuck" thing wasn't worth it, and I wouldn't recommend a tummy tuck to anyone for any reason.  Well, I don't feel that way now.  I've got a nice flat tummy and a nice contour, lost over 20 lbs and very happy.  I hesitate at painting such a realistic picture, but I don't think the docs tell you enough about the experience.  I don't know if it's because they're trying to protect you, the patient, themselves, or the fact that it can be different for everyone.

Please let us know how your surgery goes.  Remember, you are very brave.  My PS once told me that surgery isn't for sissies.  That couldn't be more true.  None of us are sissies.  We're all incredibly brave women -- even when we're afraid.  All the best to you.

I go to Chicago on the 30th of Dec. for a consult with Dr. Massey(Midwest weather permitting!!!)...I am considering a unilateral DIEP...if I decide to go, I am on the Calendar for late March early April I think, Roper  in Charleston...My youngest graduates High School June 11Th...so I need to be up and functioning by then and a wedding a few states over in July...

Rayofsun,

I know that must be nerve wracking to get a cold when you're only a week away, but most colds get resolved in less than a  week, so I wish you the best for a quick head cold recovery, so you can move forward to your surgery.

Hi All,

Having unilateral DIEP in 201, still waiting for a surgery date, was told the wait will be about 5 months.

PS is Dr, Toni Zhong at Toronto General, I am SO excited, don't care what kind of recovery it is, I just want my boob back

Thanks for starting this thread

Mo

Hello, I am scheduled for a bilateral DIEP on 1-20-11. It's getting close now and Ithe nerves are starting to set in.

I was diagnosed with BC in the left breast in 1998 and underwent a lumptectomy, radiation and a followed up with 5yrs of Tamoxifen. In 9/09, I was diagnosed again however, in the right breast this time. I decided enough was enough and I had a BMX in 11/09. Due to the radiation 12 years ago. My options for reconstruction are very limited due to the high failure rate of implants after prior radiation treatment.  After much research I decided to go to the UW here in Seattle for my reconstruction. My PS placed tissue expanders behind the chest wall and these have gradually been expanded to 560 CC's over the last several months. The expanders have been sucessful in providing the pockets to place the tissue. It has been a slow process, however, I have have not experienced much pain at all throughout the process. I decided to wait and have the DIEP done in January 2011 as this is a good time of year to be snuggled up at home and secondly for insurance purposes.- I know there will be touch up surgeries scheduled later in the year and wanted to get this completed all in one calendar year. I will probably hit my max out of pocket for the year so I may as well do it in January!!!

Yes, these TE's have been in for a year now and I am so ready to get these rocks out.... They are not the most comfortable but for me they definitely beat the alternative. It has also given me plenty of time to prepare for the next phase of this journey.   

I also watch the posts for DIEP in Seattle. I wish those of you who are also going through this, peace and strength. As this is my first time to post, I look forward to hearing from you.

ladym:  I have an app't with Dr. zhong in feb.  It's already been a long wait, and like you, I will be waiting at least 5-8 months for surgery.  I am sooo impatient, but at least there is a light at the end of this very long tunnel  I will be watching this thread for your surgery and how you make out.

kelben- that's so exciting!!! I have heard nothing but good things about Dr. Zhong. I had my last consult in Nov and signed all the consent forms and took pics ect,m but just CAN'T get that date...uuugghhh. I know that the immediate recon comes before the delayed so I just have to try to be patient and hope it's worth the wait.

Are you having immediate or delayed? unilateral or bilateral? I'll definaltey be on this thread a lot trying to learn lots before my surgery.

Mo:)

I had a left mastectomy in March and I'm a D cup, so I'm a circus freak too...with one very large right breast (hey put us together and we would be pretty hot) hahahaha

Dr. Zhong told me that she will do the DIEP on  the left and then 2 months later will lift the right one at the same time as the nipples are done.

I can't wait and I learn so much on these threads, lemme know how your consult goes.

btw...wait til you see Dr. Zong, she is SO pretty and young looking.

Rayofsun:

It is very frustrating to potentially have to postpone surgery, BUT I know from experience that anesthesia and being intubated can play havoc with respiratory issues.  Really better to make sure that's all cleared up before going under.

kelben I sent you a pm