Reconstruction

vlcarr · 07-09-2011, 02:22 PM

Just wanted to share that I'm 6 weeks out from DIEP on my right breast. My surgeon wanted me to wait a year from radiation before seeking recon. I must say that at the time I really thought I would not even be interested, but changed my mind during the year waiting period.

My remaining breast is not huge but is large enough that the fake one I had to wear really bothered me. It was hot and heavy in order to match my other breast. I also had a caved in area in my chest so it really impacted what I could wear and I decided I wanted it fixed.

I am extremely happy I decided to do DIEP. I was in the hospital for 6 days, around 3 in ICU. The first 24 hours they came in every hour on the hour and listened for a "pulse" in the transplanted tissue. I was so happy it lived. The recovery wasn't a cake walk but doable. In addition, the bread basket all the women in my family have is gone! My surgeon did a wonderful job. I will have another outpatient surgery in 3 months to lift the left breast and make them match a little better. My surgeon said they would be sisters, not twins, but the outcome so far is much better than what I expected.

I was also concerned because I have lymphedema--it didn't make it any worse. Too bad that can't fix that with surgery. I haven't posted in a while but wanted to share this since I'm only 6 weeks post surgery. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Wishing you the best in making your decision.