Hi drabble, thanks for reply.
Had my ld op with expander in Oct 2009.
Was in hosp for 7 days. Had regular painkillers (bit stronger than latest op). The drains were taken out before i left hosp, but had to return a week later, and then twice more to have back area drained, but you cannot feel it as you are numb around there.
A physio came each day i was in hosp to do gentle exercises with me.
Two weeks after op, expansion started, 50mls first time and two weeks later second expansion, ano 50mls (for me the second expansion was too much as it was v tight and too big - in hindsight i would have opted out of this second expansion, or had a lot less put in).
I was driving after 4 weeks (but it was a r/side recon). If you are having left side done, you may need longer, as you do more ie gear stick/hand brake.
My back ached for a few weeks, and I didn't have much energy for about 5 weeks, but it slowly came back.
I got extra physio. Even though i did my exercises 2 or 3 times a day, i felt i needed that extra push, even though i was progressing. She gave me different exercises and manipulated my arm gently, and i,m so glad i went.
I,m really glad i had the op, and i'm sure you will be. April isn't long off, and then you will have the summer to look forward to with two boobs!
Good luck, and let us know how you get on.
Rosie x
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