[sarah]

This may sound stupid but I'm not sure if I had a Diep flap (thought that is what it was) or a tram but your husband is absolutely right, this is a decision you have to make. I had mine in 1999 so really old style. 12 hours sounds too long. mine took 8 hours with both mastectomy and flap done together. I must say when I woke up I found it painful even with the pathetic morphine drip but everyone I spoke to before doing had had no problem and thought it wasn't that painful and the results were great - that I would agree with. Just make sure that the hospital will take care of your pain needs fully and also that if you need 6 days in hospital (I did) you can get them. I didn't get out of bed for several days - maybe 4??? They put plastic massaging leggings on me to avoid clots and also had me breathe into tubes frequently to avoid pneumonia. Also don't try to do too much when you get home - apparently I got up and about too soon - nothing drastic but I was told off. I was somewhat bent over for quite a while - they took some stomach muscle to use. Apparently I was fitter than they thought and getting enough fat wasn't as easy as anticipated!!!
So check the pain attention and the possible length of stay.
I went home with drains still in me that took many days to get down enough to be removed.
Remember there are no bad decisions and my results were great - just like a natural breast.
It's 15 years later, things are bound to be easier and better today.
Good luck,
stay healthy, that's the most important thing
hugs and lvoe
sarah