Double mastectomy for me

Hello just feeling really emotional i had my double mastectomy on Wednesday after a 4hr operation without reconstruction i was back in the ward at 430pm and made to leave hospital at 6pm i feel like I had no care just sent home to look after myself. I feel really angry my husband have had to help me take my first layer of my bandage off and help me with my drains sorry for the vent just feeling like iv been let down

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I understand how you feel. When I had surgery for a recurrence in my reconstructionlast July, I was last on the list. I didnt go down to theatre till 4pm. After surgery about 6.30 in recovery I was in a lo of pain so didn’t go to the ward till 7.30, still had pain. I was told once pain was controlled I could go home. 9pm came and still in pain, they were still planning on sending me home. I was so worried about setting off home so late. The nurse looking after me asked if Id prefer to stay the night. It was a huge relief. I was lucky.

I honestly think if your on the list for a late afternoon surgery, you should have the option to stay in. I think its heartless to send folk home the same day after breast surgery if theyre worried or not coping both physically and emotionally.

In 2004 when I had my original mastectomy and reconstruction. I was on HDU for 24 hours and then a private room on a ward for 6 further days. I felt very well looked after and more than ready to go home to continue recovery.

Protocols have changed so much and not always for the better.

Take care and continue to reach out in the forum for support xx

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Sorry to hear about your experience. I had double mastectomy 5 months ago but stayed the night. It made a big difference. Nurses helped when I woke up vomiting and to take me to the loo. How are you sleeping? I used a slightly reclining chair so my drains were on on the floor.