To access deeper file structures on a Lumia 520 running Windows Phone 8.1, you might consider using a third-party file management app. One effective option is the "Files" app by Microsoft, available on the Windows Phone Store, which can offer more in-depth access to your phone's files compared to the default connection via PC.
For recovering lost files, I recommend looking into data recovery tools that are compatible with Windows Phone systems. Software like Recuva or PhotoRec might be helpful here, but their effectiveness can vary based on how the phone handles deleted data.
If these steps seem daunting or unhelpful, checking out dedicated forums and developer communities for Windows Phone could provide specific guidance and possibly even custom tools tailored for your needs. Remember to back up vital data regularly in the future to avoid similar situations!