Why is my belly still sore and swollen after DIEP flap reconstruction?

Persistent soreness and swelling over a year after DIEP flap reconstruction can understandably be concerning and uncomfortable. It's worth discussing these ongoing symptoms with your surgical team, as they can best evaluate whether what you're experiencing is within the normal range of healing or if additional support might be helpful - every recovery journey is unique and timelines can vary significantly between patients.

I had bacterial infection in the incisional area. Now I have a a hard, ugly scar.

Whenever u deal with surgery particularly on the belly area u’re with dealing with muscle. I had a tummy-tuck some time ago and boy was a sore. And at the time I had breast reduction also. That didn’t bother me as much as my stomach. It would be the same type of pain if u do push-ups and other stomach exercises . It’ll take sometime and u’ll start feeling better. I also had a hysterectomy many yrs. ago and that affected my stomach couldn’t wait to get that over with. I took an over load of estrogen after that surgery that’s where the breast cancer came from. Anyway I wish u well and just give it time. Mary

The reason ur stomach is still bothering u is because anytime u deal with the stomach u’re dealing with muscle and u have to give it a chance to heal.’try moving a little slower and try to walk not a lot at one time a few steps. A little more each day. Good luck and let me know how u are doing! Mary