Surgery date and items to aid recovery

[lb12678]

Hello
I’ve finally got my surgery date, after things moving very slowly and at times feeling like I’d been forgotten, things seem to be picking up pace now!

My surgery is on the 22 August, I’m having a mastectomy with reconstruction on the right and a lumpectomy on the left. They are also removing the lymph nodes on the right.

I’m extremely apprehensive of the surgery, I’m terrified of the anaesthetic (I’ve had issues in the past with allergic reactions) but I’m just trusting the team will take care of me.

I’m trying to get organised with anything that will help make my recovery easier and more comfortable.

Any suggestions would be great x

[ginger1]

Hi
As someone who’s just gone through the same op I’ll give you my experience.

I had my surgery on 18th July so am currently 2 wks 5 days post op.

I had single mx with immediate diep reconstruction, uplift and slight reduction to other side & lymph nodes were removed from my chest wall & armpit (my biopsy for sentinel L/N was positive hence the clearance)

I suffer with severe anxiety so wore a medical bracelet which meant I didn’t have to talk/engage if I felt anxious, but I could nod or shake my head or give the thumbs up if needed to alert the staff I understood.

I packed a small case and a small bag, and apart from toothbrush and toothpaste I used literally nothing apart from my iPad and phone.

I took an extension lead as I only needed to have that plugged in resting on my bed, and made it so much easier.
I also took a couple of my own pillows as hospitals never have enough.

Front fastening/buttoned pjs or nighties.

I’ve been told no bra for 4 weeks (other hospitals give diff advice)

I took snacks but couldn’t/didn’t eat them.

I couldn’t shower so just used appropriate wet wipes just to freshen up.

A neck fan was my saviour in hospital as they have to keep your body temp up.

At home I’m using sticks to aid with walking to take the pressure off my back.

I’ve borrowed a type of hostess trolly from a family member that has all my stuff on to make it easier, I’ve got my meds, tissues, snacks, creams, dressings, you name it, it’s beside me and within reach.

I have a long handed grabber too so I dont stretch. So if I drop things or need to reach a little I’ve have that, I also have a little bag hanging off the end for rubbish.

I’m recovering well and have had great support by my family.

I got the house in order b4 my op and I was in on the fri @6am and home Monday eve @7pm

I had 2 drains which were taken out on the Wednesday along with all my dressings and so far all is good.

Good luck hon with yr op x x x

[shine25]

Wishing you all the best for your surgery. I had mastectomy and reconstruction in mid May and am currently getting 3 weeks of radiotherapy.
Post op I found I was really thirsty and the hospital only provided a small polystyrene cup and a big water jug which I couldn’t lift to refill. I got family to bring me a couple of water bottles with spouts so perhaps pack one or two of those.

And yes front fastening tops/pjs are best.

I tried to reduce my pain relief a bit at day 8 as which didn’t go well so had to keep going a while longer.

Remember to do your shoulder exercises. I found some good videos to follow on youtube for weeks 1-3 post op and then 4-6 weeks post op. I developed cording so this was really important to keep going with.

I booked an appointment with my hairdressers for a wash and blow dry for around day 11 and that felt awesome! My husband did his best to help me wash my hair but not quite the same lol. And it was a lovely treat after all the shock and stress of getting a breast cancer diagnosis.

You will be well looked after by the healthcare team and I hope you have a good recovery from the surgery.

[Yasmeink]

Hi @lb12678
I completely understand the anxiety- I had a left MX with targeted lymph node removal in February 2024 and just went back in July this year to have a right side MX. I’m now 4 weeks post op. On both occasions staff have been so friendly and calming and one nurse just sat and held my hand while they were administering the GA - I won’t forget it, just let them know you are nervous and worried, they have lots of experience in dealing with this

For managing post op, I would recommend lots and lots of pillows in every room you sit in. You might want one to hug as well, this will help create a barrier between your arm and chest so you’re not aggravating anything.

I would also second the exercises- they’re so important, do what you can and don’t push yourself, but it’ll be a huge help in recovering. Every week you’ll notice a massive change in recovery!

Wishing you all the best