Breast Cancer second time around

I had a bilateral mastectomy with tissue expanders inserted and 3/4 inflated. I imagine since you previously had radiotherapy that may not be an option. They preserved about half the skin with very good margins. I had 4 drains in. My main issues was not being allowed to raise my arms above shoulder height for 3 weeks and weakness in arm strength as the expanders went under the chest wall muscles which were also cut. It was quite painful but was manage pretty well in hospital and I got a good regime going at home. I was numb from the sentinal node biopsy which became painful when some of the nerves recovered but was sorted with lyrica. My procedure took 6 weeks for recovery and ability to sleep well. If you are only having a mastectomy it should take about half this time. Have lots of pillows available to be able to hug in bed which will provide some support and look at a mastectomy camisole for comfort also. Emotionally it is a difficult journey, mine was made easier with the reconstruction...you will miss your breasts but at the same time feel relief the cancer is removed.  Hope all gies well. We are here for you. Kath x