Advice for DIEP preparation

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jjp123
jjp123 Member Posts: 2
edited August 2019 in Breast Reconstruction

Hi All, I just this morning scheduled my DIEP abdominal tissue surgery for September. I was wondering if anyone who has been through this would have any advice on how to prepare my home, myself, and my wardrobe prior to the procedure. When I had my mastectomy, my girlfriend made me a post-mastectomy pillow which became my constant companion in bed as well as while on the couch during recovery. Is there anything you wish you knew before surgery that you now know? Also, any encouraging words would be greatly appreciated as I am pretty nervous about going through such an extensive procedure.

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  • Peregrinelady
    Peregrinelady Member Posts: 1,019
    edited July 2019
    The best way to learn about DIEP and preparation is to read the DIEP threads. I read the 2013 one when I was waiting for my surgery in 2016 and it had lots of great info. It is a tough surgery, but most people say that it was worth it, even with complications. I am glad I did it.
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  • OCDAmy
    OCDAmy Member Posts: 873
    edited July 2019

    Check out this thread. It’s a lot to read but it is very helpful. Best of luck, I’m pleased with my DIEP results.

    https://community.breastcancer.org/forum/44/topics/861735?page=72#idx_2131


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  • Proud_Patriot
    Proud_Patriot Member Posts: 27
    edited July 2019

    The one thing I felt really helped me after DIEP Flap surgery was having a recliner for sleep. It was much easier for me to get in and out of the recliner than in and out of bed. I already had regular recliners in the house and did not rent a special one for this surgery.

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  • Meow13
    Meow13 Member Posts: 4,859
    edited July 2019

    Are you having a single side DIEP? I did, I didn't use a recliner I slept on the non DIEP side. Pillows are very useful for comfort. Really wasn't that much discomfort. I had pain medication in the hospital that caused constipation take stool softeners it will help. Otherwise I didn't need anything special. It was 7 years ago in April I had the surgery.

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  • jjp123
    jjp123 Member Posts: 2
    edited July 2019

    Thank you all for the advice. I like hearing that the pain level and recuperation was tolerable...it makes me less nervous.

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  • GwennyMD
    GwennyMD Member Posts: 147
    edited August 2019

    One of the prior DIEP threads had a list of things you should do or buy before surgery. Check the 2014 and 2015 threads. I did not follow all of it. Some of it depends on how long you will be in hospital and your home situation. If you have kids (especially small ones) you will need to have meals prepared, house cleaned, etc for at least 3 weeks since you will not be able to do it . Some people bought the special camisole with pockets for the drains. I tied mine to a ribbon that I wore around my neck. Sometimes I just used a safety pin and attached it to my shirt. You may need personal help for several days to get in and out of bed or take a shower. I did not rent a recliner. My bed is comfy and I keep 6 pillows in it. Since I had a BMI with the DIEP, I stacked the pillows and backrest so I could sleep in a reclining position. Some doctors make you wear a compression bra, others do not. Most people found that yoga pants and loose pajama bottoms were their best friends. I wore large button down shirts for at least 3 weeks.

    I hope that this helps. Good luck!

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