DIEP Surgery Complete -It feels great

Hi Ladies,

I had my surgery last Tuesday, December 4. The doctors were able to perform a true bilat DIEP. (At first during pre-op exam my doctor thought I would have a DIEP on one side and a pedicle tram flap on the other.)They were so pleased with my anatomy. It is quite fun watching people get excited about such things, but it made for an easier surgery -- though not necessarily shorter. It still took ten hours.

Let me tell you about my care and recovery. The nurses were so extremely diligent in monitoring the vascular activity with a doppler machine on each flap. You can actually hear the vascular action -- very fascinating and encouraging! This was done every hour for over 24 hours and then every two hours for the next 48 hours. They also visually checked my breasts for color). I was kept under a temperature control blanket (made of paper and filled with warm air). And, of course the massaging stockings on the legs. I have lymphodema in my left arm and they were very diligent in taking precautions on that issue as well. They were very specific about lack of movement of my arms. No weight bearing of any kind and my arms cannot extend over my head for a while. I was out of bed around midday the day after surgery with the help of a pt and ot. By the second day of post-opt I stopped the pain medication being given intravenously. I just became sick each time I was out of bed. Though the nurses were very quick with medication to counter it. My pain was only in the abdomin and was moderate. You know that if you have pain, you take the meds. I was just lucky. On the second day I walked down the hall and up two flights of stairs. On the third day, I had the option to go home or stay for another day. I decided to go home because I knew that my husband would be taking very good care of me. He even washes and blow dries my hair and takes care of my every need. You know only too well that we both want the DIEP flaps to be successful so we can move past this as well. I don't normally sleep on my back so sleep is a problem, but I take plenty of naps and feel well rested.

I am 57 years old and physically active, which I know has helped me through the early stages of post opt . Overall, going for this surgery four and half years after my bilat was a difficult decision. Afterall, I was choosing to put myself through it. I believe now that it is a good decision. I am anxious to see how I feel once the drains are out. To the rest of you who have yet to go throughtthis, you are courageous ladies because this does take guts! Rest easy in the fact that it feels great in being on the other side and you will be there very soon. I will keep  you posted.