Problem after diep flap surgery

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Ritz10
Ritz10 Member Posts: 3
edited August 2018 in Surgery - Before, During, and After

Hi my name is Rita and I am 35 yrs old. I was diagnosed with breast cancer 2yrs ago went through Chemo. A right side mastectomy and then radiation. Back in July 16 2018 finaly had a left mastectomy and diep flap double reconstruction. There were some complications with my lung colapsing and I had to stay at hospital another extra week. After I got out I notice that the incision on the abdomen was opening had to go to my PS and they told me to pack it. After a week of doing so, had another appointment and they had to open the wound more because there was dead tissue. Now I have to wait 3 to 4 more weeks packing it to see if it works. But now the issue is there is an area next to the opening that is getting red and hard and is scaring me. Ireached out to my PS but no answer yet has anyone gine through this? Am scared.

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  • Trishyla
    Trishyla Member Posts: 1,005
    edited August 2018

    Rita, sweetie. I'm so sorry you're going through this at such a young age. It's scary and frustrating.

    I had a very similar experience after my DIEP flap surgery

    I had a completely collapsed left lung (the first my surgeons had happen in 12 years of doing the procedure) and had to stay in the hospital an additional 4 days. Once I got home, I was doing fine until I went to my chemo buddy's birthday party. I danced in high heels five weeks out from surgery and opened up my abdominal sutures. Yes, I'm an idiot.

    I was fortunate that my incision healed after a couple of weeks of using Silvadine, and I had no further issues.

    It sounds like your PS is taking your concerns seriously. But don't hesitate to keep calling if you feel things are getting worse. Even if it's after hours. An infection like that is nothing to mess around with.

    It sounds like the hard red part next to the open incision might be scar tissue forming. It's very common. Keep a close eye on it, and don't hesitate to go to the ER if you feel like the infection is getting worse. They may not know much about a DIEP flap procedure, but they know an infection when they see it.

    Sending gentle healing hugs. All the best to you.

    Trish

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  • Ritz10
    Ritz10 Member Posts: 3
    edited August 2018

    Thank you Trish,

    It is very reasuting to know that you went through it and think mine will be fine. Right now is been very hard I am 6 week after surgery and everything scares me. I have lymphedema on my right arm after theu removed 27 lymphs and the pain is horrible. All my doctors have been really good and attentive but my body is not healing as expected after all treatments.


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