DIEP FLAP Surgery

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MJMT
MJMT Member Posts: 3
edited May 2020 in Surgery - Before, During, and After

Hello,

The first time I was diagnosed w/ BrCa (5/2012) I had Left Mastectomy w/ Reconstruction w/ implant and followed with 3 of 4 rounds of Chemo. I decided on the mastectomy to avoid radiation. I was also on oral hormone blockers afterwards.

The second time I was diagnosed (1/2017), it as a recurrence of the same in the Left side in the lymph node in the chest wall above the implant which tumor was surgically removed. I had 5 months of Chemo and then after a month break had 5 weeks of Radiation with the implant.

Since then, the implant has gotten deformed, hard and uncomfortable. I am getting it removed and replaced with diep flap, bilateral if possible.

Have any of you lovely ladies had the experience of Bilateral Diep Flap? One of my concerns is toileting in the early recovery. Would I be able to wipe my butt without disturbing the healing incisions?

Thank you in advance for your Reply,

MJMT

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  • KCMC
    KCMC Member Posts: 208
    edited October 2019

    Hi, I had a double mastectomy and immediate bilateral DIEP flap in May of 2017. I had no real problem using the toilet - I do remember not being able to do my hair - after showering my husband had to blow dry it for me. I can remember not being able to lift my arms. I was worried about using the toilet but never had to ask anyone to wipe for me even in the hospital.

    Also, I just wanted to let you know I am so happy with the results and don’t regret my decision at all. Good luck!

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  • MJMT
    MJMT Member Posts: 3
    edited October 2019

    Thank you KCMC !! Your response is very reassuring ..

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  • Cobra91
    Cobra91 Member Posts: 3
    edited April 2020

    I am 3 weeks out from my bilateral mastectomy with immediate DIEP flap. I can answer any questions you have. I had a catheter for the first couple of days which was helpful. Then they wanted me to get up and move around. It was not necessarily painful but more sore and tight— unless you have to cough or sneeze. Wiping after using the toilet can be a little uncomfortable but really only for about a week. Everything loosens up quickly. I had my drains in for longer than I expected— about 3 weeks. They were uncomfortable and super annoying.
    Hope this helps!

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  • dixie954
    dixie954 Member Posts: 4
    edited May 2020

    I am having my surgery on May 27th. What do I need for after surgery. Bra? Tummy area? I need to feel better really quick. LOL. My son is getting married on June 6th!

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