Can we assign one simple rule regarding education about DIEP flap breast reconstruction? Yes, this one simple rule is to listen. This is where it begins. I have learned from patients and surgeons that listening is the first action required to educate. It reveals what is important for patients and what they desire to understand about the process and decision to have DIEP flap. I have learned from surgeons it is important for patients to take the time to listen to surgeons to understand what they can achieve for a patient in a DIEP flap consultation.
My Introduction and Education about DIEP Flap
I was a student in April of 2014 during my second diagnosis of breast cancer. In the months following my double mastectomy I did what I now tell others to do. “Do your homework to find the right plastic surgeon”. I listened to all breast reconstruction options given to me by my breast surgeon. Since this was my maiden voyage through reconstruction so to speak, I soon realized the importance of this act of listening and dialogue that took place during the consult with her the day we discussed my surgical treatment plans.
My education about DIEP flap intensified when I met with my plastic surgeon in October of 2014. This was my first experience with a plastic surgeon. I prepared ahead of time the questions I had about this type of breast reconstruction using your own tummy tissue to reconstruct breasts after mastectomy. He had years of experience consulting with patients but never met me. Thus, listening to me, the new patient, was a first experience for him also. Fortunately, I chose a plastic surgeon who unalterably believed and practiced the shared decision-making model for a surgical consult in DIEP flap.
Listening became an active back and forth exchange during the consultation. There were thoughtful pauses in our discussion. Notes were taken by his nurse as he asked about my preferences, lifestyle, support at home, and aesthetic desires and outcomes for the surgery. He drew illustrations when he sensed further explanation was needed. The one simple rule of listening from each of us became my education about DIEP flap.
What I Learned From Listening to Patients
When I completed my surgery and began writing this blog about my experience having DIEP flap, I was admittedly excited to tell others about it. I don’t think I always listened first in the early days of talking to patients who would reach out to me wanting to become educated about DIEP flap themselves. I was still in the phase of astonishment and how successful and seamless my own DIEP flap happened. Thinking this was the way everyone should go after mastectomy; I may have been a bit overzealous.
I came to realize that the best way to start any conversation with a those considering DIEP flap is to say, “I am here to listen.” This allows a discourse to begin acknowledging them to take the lead discussing their fears, concerns, and questions. It became very clear to me this was the best way to approach an inquiry about breast reconstruction. Each person I talk to has similarities of being affected by breast cancer. However, each person is unique in their experiential background and what they will need during the reconstructive decision process. They taught me over the years the one simple rule about education for DIEP flap is to listen first. Otherwise, how do I even understand and know what it is they need?
Education About DIEP Flap Listening to Surgeons
My education about this type of surgery, DIEP flap, is ongoing. Attending webinars, conferences, reading the latest articles from my go to resource, PRS Global open, allows me to stay updated on innovations, research, and what works and what hasn’t for patients. Where I find the most value is in actual discussion with microsurgeons who successfully and routinely perform DIEP flap. I listen, with great intent, as they share their expertise and skill. This allows me to invite them to be interviewed so other patients can benefit from their knowledge. I am grateful they share their valuable time for DiepCFoundation. I want patients to be educated to begin the decision process for their surgery.
An affirming moment came to me in a direct message from a surgeon. He stated:
We had the opportunity to take care of a patient Terri was in touch with about her upcoming DIEP flap through the DiepCFoundation. She was so knowledgeable about everything in regard to her surgery. It made coming with a shared plan together so easy and fluid.
Microsurgeon Who Performs DIEP flap
Preparing to Apply the One Simple Rule
Listening is a collaborative act during a consult. When patients and surgeons engage in this type of shared decision-making exchange regarding DIEP Flap breast reconstruction, they are following the one simple rule, listen. Before you go to your own reconstructive surgery consult, think about intentional listening. Calm yourself before the event. Be prepared. Sit in front of a mirror before you go and ask a few of your questions, saying them out loud. Observe how you look to yourself in the mirror, then practice the pause, the pause to listen.
Thank you to the many patients who have taught me education about DIEP flap and the value of the one simple rule, listen. None of us can do this alone. You lean on me because I want it that way and why I do what I do. Leaning on you to learn has been the greatest insight into my education about DIEP flap and what I must remain keenly attuned to, the patient.
Surgeons, know thyself. Many patients will say to me, “I didn’t like the delivery, bedside manner, or arrogance of the surgeon I consulted with”. You cannot change your inherent personality, but I have no doubt you can learn techniques to improve your ability to better listen to your patients from your colleagues, or from your own patients. Take a moment each week or at the end of the day to take notice of what worked and what didn’t work in your consultation for DIEP flap with your patients. Thank you for teaching me to listen better. I have learned much from you.
To say that a person feels listened to means a lot more than just their ideas get heard. It’s a sign of respect. It makes people feel valued.
Deborah Tannen, Georgetown University
I commend your efforts in raising awareness and educating readers about the DIEP flap procedure. By emphasizing the importance of surgeon experience and patient education, you are contributing to a better understanding of this complex surgical technique and its potential benefits for breast cancer survivors.
Thank you for sharing your insights and providing a valuable resource for individuals seeking information on the DIEP flap procedure.
Thank you for your kind words. It means a lot to me.