hi everyone, i was diagnosed breast cancer on 1.7.08, i was due for surgery for left mastectomy, and right reduction on 24.7.08 but i developed a throat infection, and they have put me back to 11.9.08, i was frightened in the hospital waiting for their decision whether to do it or not, i am mostly concerned with the pain afterwards, can anyone put my mind at east, but honestly thanks Diane x
My mum had this operation ten days ago. She was out of hospital in two days! And said the pain was not bad at all. She didn’t even use her morpine drip after surgery and apart from the odd paracetamol (and she got an infection due to them not changing her dressings) she said it wasn’t so much painful, but a bit uncomfortable. I hope this helps a wee bit.
Jules xx
Hi Diane -I had the same op on 31st May and I can put my hand on my heart(or my lovely new bosoms!!!) and say it wasn’t bad at all - honestly! I was in hospital for about six days and reduced my painkillers after 3rd day. Actually I found the constipation worse - some of the painkillers can cause this - so do keep up on the old fruit and roughage bit- and do drink loads of water. Pineapple juice is good for healing too. When you get home - take it easy and do as much as you feel like - DO THE EXERCISES!!! - I was told to just do the easy ones for first fortnight or so - not to lift my recon arm above shoulder height- and no lifting. I didn’t drive for about six weeks - enjoyed the luxury of not having to! You have to get a good fitting bra - unwired preferably with crossover bit at front - Marks do good ones and they are great at measuring you - and you have to wear a bra day and night for three months. i found it best to sleep propped up and couldn’t lie on either side for a long time - not painful- just uncomfortable. I used bio oil on my scars and find it really helps.
I am so pleased with my new boobs - I was 38FF before - very heavy and saggy - was actually giving me back ache and I resembled the hunchback of Notre Dame - now I am a very pert 36D and everyone says I look wonderful and I do feel great with a renewed energy - even though I am now on chemo trail - due 2nd FEC 5th August/
Sorry to waffle on but I appreciated all the advice I got on this site - no-one gives better info than those that have been ther done that and got the tee shirt - please do keep posting any more questions and try not to let it build up in your mind with the extended time you have to wait!
Cheers and take care…no worries! C x