DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Recovery

Following a mastectomy for breast cancer, breast reconstruction is often performed to recreate the breast mound. One such procedure to do this is the Deep Inferior Epigastric Artery Perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction procedure.

What Is the DIEP Flap Procedure?

In the DIEP flap procedure, excess tissue, skin, and blood vessels are taken from the patient’s abdominal region to create the new breast. This procedure is generally done in phases. First, the affected breast is removed during the mastectomy, and a tissue expander is put in place to prevent the skin from tightening up as it heals. Then, a few months later, the DIEP flap procedure is performed to transplant the skin, tissue, and blood vessels to the breast.

How Long Is the Recovery Time?

Patients can expect the following recovery timelines after DIEP flap breast reconstruction.

Hospital Stay

Patients will have a hospital stay of three to four days following the DIEP flap procedure. They should be able to walk short distances within two days following surgery. Light walking is important to keep circulation moving to the legs. Patients may require assistance getting in and out of bed in the first few days after surgery.

Home Care

Once home, patients should be able to resume normal functions such as dressing and eating with little to no discomfort. However, they should have a caregiver for at least the first week or two following surgery. It generally takes four to six weeks for a full recovery from a DIEP flap procedure.

• Heavy lifting: Patients should avoid lifting any heaving objects for the first two to three weeks following surgery.
• Surgical drains: Surgical drains will be removed at one to two weeks following the surgery.
• Showering: Patients may want to use a shower stool (available from most drug stores) to sit on while showering. Sponge baths or baby wipes may be a good alternative for freshening up if patients are not up to getting in and out of a shower. Baths are not recommended, as patients will want to avoid exposing their surgical incisions and drains to excess water.
• Heavy activity: Although the body may heal quickly, patients may find that they tire easily. Activities such as driving, housework, or returning to work should be approached cautiously after the first three to four weeks, depending on the patient’s energy level. More strenuous activities, such as exercise, should wait until after the first month following surgery. 
• Discomfort: There may be some residual tightness in the abdomen for a month or two following surgery, as well as some discomfort in the breasts for a few weeks after surgery. In most patients, these side effects fade by the third month after surgery.

Reconstructive breast surgery following a mastectomy can be very emotional for patients. They may be concerned about the look and feel of their reconstructed breast. Our surgeons are very sensitive to these concerns and will work closely with patients to ensure that they are satisfied with their procedure and recovery process. Contact Crawford Plastic Surgery to schedule an appointment.