Clothing

Question

I’m having a double mastectomy in 2 weeks I live 4 hrs from the hospital so was wondering what other Ladies did as far as day wear. Did you just stay in pyjamas or get dressed each day. I will be there for about 5/7 days. Any tips as what to take or not take would b appreciated. I am going to Epworth freemasons in east Melbourne.&nbsp;

cutter · Answer

Thank you much appreciated, I have new button front pj,s so will take those.

abbydog · Answer

I only had an initial Mastectomy with axillary clearance. Later I've had Breast Reconstruction with prophylactic Mastectomy to other side at the same time of surgery. PJ's with opening front were ideal. Probably short sleeves, as you will have an IV for a day or two. I don't believe you have filled in your profile. Is your DMX for prophylactic reasons, possibly with immediate implants? Or is there a plan for Chemo and R/T? &nbsp;The advice may be slightly different. Have you been told how many wound drains to expect? I'm guessing 2 each side. The drains can be a little challenging, when moving around. Sometimes hospitals provide a bag to put them in, or a pillowcase will do. You could take a bag with a handle, big enough to fit equal to 4 large cans of food. I haven't found my breast surgeries too painful. Usually they suggest regular Paracetamol, with stronger tablets on top as needed. Don't let the pain get on top, ask when you start to need it. Make sure your Nurse Call Bell is always within reach.I took a hand held fan, as I get hot too easily.&nbsp;Do any exercises that are recommended for you, so that you can maintain a good range of movement.&nbsp;Will you be expected to stay in/near Melbourne for a week or two after?As Arpie says, accept offers for help, get on top of basic housework, preprepare some freezer meals, or buy.Do you have friends and family that you are comfortable to talk to about your surgery?Ask anything else.Wishing you all the best with your surgery and recovery.

julez1958 · Answer

Hi @Cutter I had two separate surgeries - first was single mastectomy then second was prophylactic mastectomy of the non cancer breast and double DIEP flap reconstruction.The first time I took pyjamas to hospital ( loose fitting pants and button up the front tops ) plus an outfit to return home in ( loose fitting pants and button up the front shirt ).Second time I just wore &nbsp;the hospital gown in hospital and saved the pyjamas until I got home.I think my hubby was getting a bit worried about how much I wore the pyjamas when I got home 😊I recall answering the door to a courier and it was afternoon and I said “ I’m just home from having major surgery in hospital “ when it was a week later !My point being , it’s a big surgery and if you feel like &nbsp;spending the day in your pjs during that initial recovery period , so what?You do need to take it slowly and be kind yo yourself.Take care🌺

tonyam · Answer

Hi @Cutter, sorry to hear you’ve had to join the bc club.You may want to join our new group here called ‘Flat Chat’. The ladies have given you great tips. I will add: slip on shoes cos you can’t bend down to lace up etcAsk the breast care nurse beforehand if she’ll supply you with drain bags and soft moon cushions to go under your arms. You may need these for the car ride home- going over pot holes will hurt! I wore singlets and button down front shirts for the first few weeks.I had a prophylactic mastectomy last year as I was fed up being lopsided for 12yrs. I’m now flat and navigating my way through crop tops. My best wishes to you- big hug xx

iserbrown · Answer

https://www.reclaimyourcurves.org.au/information-sheets.html

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