DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction is a major surgery that requires planning, support, and 4-6 weeks of recovery time. The exact length of time off work after a DIEP flap will depend on several factors, including your age, overall health, and type of job. More physical jobs require more time off than sedentary/desk jobs. Patients who have sedentary jobs, or who work from home, may be able to resume working as early as 3-4 weeks after surgery, especially if a part-time arrangement is an option.
It’s important to have a family member or close friend available to help with everyday chores, especially around the house, like vacuuming, laundry, cleaning, grocery shopping and meal prep.
Talk with your surgeon about what activities are possible during the first few weeks after surgery, so you can plan accordingly. You can find a detailed list of what to expect weekly throughout your recovery here.
When Should I Expect to Return to Work?
If possible, plan on returning gradually rather than all at once. It is common for patients to feel they get tired more quickly so going back part-time at first can be a good idea. Your surgical team should also provide you with the guidelines you need to gradually get back to normal at work.
How Can I Make Going Back to Work After Surgery Easier?
Here are some tips to help make your transition from post-op recovery to employee as pain-free as possible:
Make sure you are completely healed: Going back to work too soon after surgery can cause health problems. Even if you feel restless, make sure to not go back to work until your surgeon gives you permission.
Discuss your needs with your boss: Communicate your concerns and let them know if you need flexible work hours or a work-from-home environment during the initial weeks.
Be patient with yourself: Recovering from surgery is difficult. There will be a learning curve as you get readjusted to being back at work. Be patient with yourself and your coworkers.
Achieving a Full Recovery from DIEP Flap Reconstruction Takes Time
It’s important for you not only physically but emotionally to take all the time you need to heal. You will need support from friends and family during your recovery, so make sure they know how to support you during the healing process.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
At PRMA, we know that deciding to have breast reconstruction is a big step. We want you to feel informed, supported, and confident throughout the whole process. If you would like to learn more and review your options with one of our breast reconstruction specialists, please feel free to request your consultation today.
“Set realistic, attainable goals after your surgery. Your body is going to feel different now than it did before surgery. If you are doing it simply to lose weight or get back into a certain dress or pant size you may be setting yourself up for failure. Reset your compass.”
Leave Comment
Sign Up for Our Monthly Newsletter
Continue Reading
Too Thin For DIEP Flap? You May Have Other Flap Options!
Too Thin For DIEP Flap? You May Still Be A Flap Candidate! March 03, 2023 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin What happens if you are too thin for DIEP flap surgery? At PRMA we have successfully performed DIEP flap reconstructions on women with BMI’s of 20 and even less. For those who are deemed “Too […]
How Long Will I Be Out Of Work After DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction Surgery?
How Long Will I Be Out Of Work After DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction? January 31, 2023 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction is a major surgery that requires planning, support, and 4-6 weeks of recovery time. The exact length of time off work after a DIEP flap will depend on several factors, […]
This Simple Coding Change Could Kill Access to DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction for Thousands of Americans
This Simple Coding Change Could Kill Access to DIEP Flap Breast Reconstruction for Thousands of Americans January 25, 2023 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin Changes in medical coding by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) will severely limit the breast reconstruction options women have available through insurance, potentially making procedures like the DIEP […]
5 Tips Beauty-Lover’s Should Know Before Breast Reconstruction Surgery
5 Tips Beauty-Lover’s Should Know Before Breast Reconstruction Surgery January 18, 2023 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin Planning ahead is important when preparing for your breast reconstruction surgery, especially when it comes to work and personal life. From requesting time off from work, prepping meals, and preparing your home for a comfortable recovery – there […]
PRMA Performs Record Breaking 11,000th Flap-Based Breast Reconstruction Procedure to End the Year
PRMA Performs Record Breaking 11,000th Flap-Based Breast Reconstruction Procedure to End the Year January 04, 2023 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin PRMA reached a new milestone at the end of December 2022 – we officially completed our 11,000th flap-based breast reconstruction procedure. This accomplishment distinguishes PRMA as one of the busiest breast centers in the […]
Using Barre Workouts for Health and Healing through Breast Reconstruction
Using Barre Workouts for Health and Healing through Breast Reconstruction December 14, 2022 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin The day I was diagnosed with breast cancer, I met with my GP and he recommended that I have a double mastectomy and immediate DIEP flap reconstruction. At that point, I had the option of a lumpectomy […]
The Ultimate Breast Reconstruction Gift Giving Guide
The Ultimate Breast Reconstruction Gift Giving Guide December 09, 2022 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin Christmas is a magical and joyful time of year that goes by too fast. However, for those who have to spend Christmas preparing and recovering for surgery, the holidays may seem endless. There are many creative Christmas gifts for patients […]
Guest Post: Strength Training After Breast Reconstruction
Strength Training After Breast Reconstruction December 05, 2022 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin Is exercise after breast reconstruction possible? Yes, it is even A.W.I.N! How about strength training? Absolutely and yes, A.W.I.N.! My A.W.I.N. acronym is meant to inspire you, motivate you, and share with you my tips on the value of exercise and how […]
How to Lose Weight Before Your Breast Reconstruction Surgery
How to Lose Weight Before Your Breast Reconstruction Surgery December 05, 2022 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin Prior to surgery, PRMA recommends that patients have a BMI below 40, and preferably below 35. This is because patients who have a BMI over 40 have a higher risk of complications, particularly wound healing problems. While DIEP […]
Defining “Swelly Belly” and What to Expect
Defining “Swelly Belly” and What to Expect November 15, 2022 Share on Facebook Twitter Linkedin During the post-surgery recovery period after DIEP flap breast reconstruction surgery, a common question we get asked is “why do I look and feel so bloated?” The truth of the matter is swelling, mild discomfort, and distention are common. Your […]
No Comments