Prehab Exercises for Patients due to have DIEP Reconstruction

In collaboration with your surgeon, the physiotherapists at The Nightingale Centre have created an exercise programme for patients due to have a DIEP (Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator) reconstruction.

Prehabilitation (prehab) means getting your mind and body ready for surgery. It’s a programme of support and advice, and covers three main areas of your health:

  • Physical activity or exercise
  • Diet and nutrition
  • Mental wellbeing

The benefits of prehab include reducing the time you spend in hospital, reducing complications and shortening your recovery time following your operation.

You might be having an immediate DIEP reconstruction, which means that you may only have a few weeks to prepare for your surgery. Research has shown that you only need 3 weeks of prehab to see improvements in your fitness levels and strength. If you’re having a delayed DIEP reconstruction, you will have a lot more time to prepare for surgery. Taking small steps to improve your fitness and strength will contribute to a smoother and quicker recovery period.

Guidelines to Completing the Prehab Exercises

The stretching exercises can be performed between 2-3 times a day.

The strengthening exercises should be performed between 2-4 times a week.

Only progress on to the next exercise level when you’re finding the previous level too easy.

IMPORTANT: If you have any back problems, take care when performing the exercises. Back pain shouldn’t stop you from completing exercises, but the exercises may need to be tailored for you.

When undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery or any other treatment for cancer, you may be given specific advice on which activities you may or may not do when undergoing your treatment, and it is important to follow this advice. Please consult a healthcare professional involved in your care if you have any concerns regarding activities or exercises on this website.

If you have any questions, please telephone the Nightingale Physiotherapy Team on

0161 291 4268 (Mon-Fri 8am-4pm).