Houston4263

Dear confused, your comment showed up on my post, and I'm wondering why. I had a diep flap procedure 7/14/10 to correct some scarring and depleted volume from two lumpectomies and radiation. Are you having total breast reconstruction or partial like me. I can advise you on the partial stuff. I can also tell you that the recovery is lengthy. Don't let me scare you, but I'm a woman who doesn't sit still for long and I had to learn to say no and take care for about 10 days. When I left the hospital,I could not stand up straight because the incision site was so tight. That was a bit alarming, but my doctor's nurse told me it was all totally normal and she was so right. Get lots of movies and books to read and be prepared to relax.

I found the Bio Oil and its cheaper, generic equivalent at CVS. I have been quite good about keeping up with applying it two times a day...until school started last Wednesday. I still apply at night and I plan to keep it up for at least three months. I'm feeling realy good. Things are shifting a bit and I feel like the swelling is gone. I still want to rip my bra off at the end of the day. It seems to irritate me just enough to get me to about 4:00. My breasts and stomach incisions are still numb. A blessing in disguise!

I too have gone without a bra for the past month, but I did purchase a sports bra at Walmart! Great minds think alike Beverly. Now, please tell me what you can about any additional procedure I may have to look forward to. I have briefly spoken to my doctor about this and I have another appointment in a couple of weeks to discuss how things may "shift or settle". I know that my doctor plans to deal with a "dog ear" I have above the stitches on my abdomen. But,if you have any other wisdom about additional procedures, I'd appreciate you're sharing you experience.

I will check that out at CVS. I am ready to massage. One question. Both breasts are still numb but sensitive at the same time. I can't quite explain it, but I think you may understand what I'm saying. I have bought a new bra, but can't seem to wear it for the entire day. When will "normal" sensation return? I know that sensation will not be the same as before the DIEP flap, but when can I expect swelling to go down completely and when can I expect changes in my breasts to be finished?

Hey Beverly,
I am interested in this Bio-oil you spoke of. Where can I get this stuff?