Is a hard, swollen belly after DIEP flap surgery normal? Usually yes: swelling, scar tissue and a tight closure soften over months. Learn about numbness, abdominal bulge and hernia, fat necrosis, healed scars, what helps, warning signs and phase 2 surgery.

DIEP flap breast reconstruction offers excellent long-term results, but the first two weeks after surgery require careful monitoring. Learn about the early complications that can occur — from vascular problems and hematoma to seroma, infection, and fat necrosis — how your surgical team detects them, and which warning signs you should never ignore after going home.

How long is recovery from DIEP flap surgery? 5 to 7 days in hospital, light work by week 5 to 6, full activity by 12 to 16 weeks. Week-by-week timeline, sleeping and exercise advice, checklist and FAQ.