Second stage surgery NOLA

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marycal
marycal Member Posts: 61
edited November 2017 in Breast Reconstruction

Hi all -

I had a BMX with DIEP flap recon in NOLA in July and I'm scheduled for stage 2 in November. I'm just starting to try and wrap my mind around doing this again (now that I'm finally feeling like myself again!), and I am wondering if there is any difference in how to prepare, stuff to bring, etc, etc. I understand this will be an easier surgery/recovery, but it still doesn't sound like it will be the walk in the park that I was hoping for. :) I'd love to hear anyone's experience and any advice or suggestions.

PS - My recovery after the first surgery was WAY harder than I had anticipated.

Thank you so much!


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  • aussielovergirl
    aussielovergirl Member Posts: 46
    edited November 2017

    Hi Marycal have you had your stage 2 yet ?

    if so, hope you are healing well and not in too much discomfort. I hear its not as bad, just the issue with drains again, using your compression garments especially if you have lots of lipo, and giving yourself time to recover. All the best to you !


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  • marycal
    marycal Member Posts: 61
    edited November 2017

    Thanks Aussie! I am recovering as we speak. The flight back was a bit brutal and I'm happy to be home. It hasn't been as bad as the first surgery, but it has definitely been hard. Now trying to figure out who will take these drains out for me! Hope your are recovering well!


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  • Lula73
    Lula73 Member Posts: 1,824
    edited November 2017

    hi marycal- glad you’re doing well! I’m recovering from stage 2 right now too. When did you have yours? Mine was 11/2. Are you on the NOLA Facebook page? There is a video on there of taking out your own drains. I can’t copy & paste it as it’s a private group but I can put you in touch with the admins to get you added so you’ll have access to it if you want. Just let me know

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  • marycal
    marycal Member Posts: 61
    edited November 2017

    Hey there Lula73! Great to hear from you and glad you finally had your stage 2 surgery! I had mine 11/16. One of my good friends, who is a nurse, is on her way over here, and I just spoke with the center and they gave me verbal instructions. Seems easy enough. :) Thank you though! I hope your healing is going well. Sending hugs your way.

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  • Lula73
    Lula73 Member Posts: 1,824
    edited November 2017

    marycal-I was there thru the 10th So we just missed each other! Glad to hear you’re feeling more confident on pulling the drains and lucky to have a nurse handy😀 No drains for Thanksgiving!!! 🦃

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