Hi @papillary
I fully, understand your nerves it is absolutely normal it is a big surgery but it is worth it. I was also, terrified and confused about what to expect before my surgery.
I had a double mastectomy and DIEP reconstruction 3 weeks ago today, and life it getting easier and better each day, I am also thrilled with the results. The first few days are the worst being very overwhelming and lots of drips and drains in you, but I was out of bed the morning following the operation, showered the next day all be it not particularly effectively, the next day walking along the ward unaided and by day 4 after the operation I was allowed out of the hospital with a friend to have a coffee at the cafe across the road. The banana walking lasted about a week but in general, I was what I would call delicate and not able to walk far for the first 2 weeks, I made sure I did 2 walks a day gradually increasing the distance which I am still doing, I am now able to walk a few thousand steps at a time before taking a rest.
They will give you plenty of painkillers and I would recommend taking them as it enables you to move and this helps with the healing process. I was given gentle laxatives to counteract the painkillers, also, a suppository to get things going on day 3 to assist with no.2’s which is standard following being under the anaesthetic for so long.
A few tips were, a front fastening bra, pj’s with a button front, a set of day clothes I wore slouchy yoga trousers and a soft button-up top, long sharing cable for phone and wired earbuds (they were easy to grab off the table and less risk of dropping on the floor than wireless ones) download some ebooks or music, you won’t have any energy to read or focus for long. I started this topic before my surgery which has some helpful tips DIEP flap surgery experiences
All the best with the surgery, it really will be fine, your team will look after you, and post surgery just remember to listen to your body, take things gently and rest. xx