How difficult is the recovery from DIEP flap surgery?

Healing and recovery after DIEP flap breast reconstruction can be significantly easier than most patients think. With the implementation of ERAS Protocols, most patients experience little discomfort after surgery, require little if any narcotics, and can be discharged from the hospital after 3 days or less.

How long does swelling last after DIEP flap surgery?

The majority of swelling will subside in 3-4 weeks, but some swelling may persist for up to 3 months.

How long does flap surgery take to heal?

It can take about 6 to 8 weeks to recover from DIEP flap reconstruction surgery. Your doctor may recommend that you wear a compression girdle for up to 8 weeks after surgery.

When can I sleep on my side after DIEP flap?

HOW LONG UNTIL I CAN SLEEP ON MY SIDE AFTER DIEP FLAP SURGERY? Until your breasts have healed sufficiently, you must avoid putting any strain on the reconstructed breasts. Most patients can expect to start sleeping on their side again at least four weeks post-operation.

When can I sleep on my side after DIEP flap surgery?

How long does swelling last after breast reconstruction?

How long does swelling typically last after breast reconstruction surgery? Every healing journey is different, but most patients will see the majority of their swelling diminish after about two to three weeks. However, slight swelling or a feeling of tightness can last for a few months.

What happens to belly button during DIEP flap?

Because skin, fat, and blood vessels are moved from the belly to the chest, having a DIEP flap means your belly will be flatter and tighter — as if you had a tummy tuck.

What do you wear after DIEP flap surgery?

What do you wear after DIEP flap surgery? You may be given a support girdle or compression garment for your abdomen, and we recommended a supportive sports bra for your breasts. Wear clothes that are comfortable and don’t pull at or aggravate your stitches, and that are easy to get on and off.

How long after DIEP flap Can I drive?

How long is the recovery from DIEP Flap surgery? Walking is encouraged the first day after surgery. After 7-10 days, you should be able to drive.

How do you reduce swelling after Diep Flap?

Swelling can take 4-8 weeks to completely resolve. Compression garments such as a compression bra, shape wear or an abdominal binder can help reduce swelling.

Do you lose weight after Diep Flap?

If your weight goals change after surgery and you lose weight, no worries! Your newly reconstructed breasts will react to your weight loss changes similarly to how your natural breasts would have. If you lose weight after DIEP surgery, your reconstructed breasts will likely decrease in size as well.

When can you sleep on your side after having DIEP flap surgery?

How long does it take for skin flap to heal?

Keeping the site moist with the above procedures will hasten healing and provide you with the nicest scar possible. Do not wear make up over the incisions or flap until the sutures are removed (or have dissolved), and a thin layer of new skin covers the area. This usually takes 7 to 10 days.

How long should a skin flap take to heal?

The donor area of partial thickness skin grafts usually takes about 2 weeks to heal. For full thickness skin grafts, the donor area only takes about 5 to 10 days to heal, because it’s usually quite small and closed with stitches.