Hey everyone
I’m on the countdown to my surgery now (26th August).
I’m trying to prepare best I can mentally & emotionally. Gosh that’s difficult!
It’s only an overnight stay but am asking for any advice on what I might need in the weeks afterwards. to help myself to be comfortable etc.
💓 thanks ☺️🌸
Ann58 The recovery can be rather varied. Have you got someone at home who will be able to provide support? e.g. for household chores, lifting things, etc.
Button-up shirts or blouses and zip-up fleeces were my wardrobe for a while as they were easiest to put on when my arm movement was restricted.
When I went to sleep I positioned pillows on either side of me to try and keep me from rolling around during the night. I did wake a few times rolling a bit on my surgery side but the pillows helped.
Showering was a bit complicated. I skipped it a few days and used baby wipes to give myself a freshen up :) Washing hair can be tricky if arm movement is restricted so getting someone to help, using dry shampoo, or just letting it be might be options. I was able to awkwardly do it left-handed and it was delightful when my right arm was ready to help again.
My breast care nurse gave me a booklet of exercises to do after surgery. I did them a few times a day and it was helpful for me to notice the improvements.
I had the fridge and freezer stocked with foods so I wouldn't have to go to the supermarket.
I had booked in to see my GP in the gap between surgery and seeing the surgeon. It was helpful to talk to her about how I was feeling and she checked how I was healing (including taking a dressing off that seemed bonded to my skin but she had magic liquid to release the glue!).
Overall it can be a time to catch up on reading, a bit of tv, relaxing, or sitting outside enjoying the sunshine. Taking it day by day, letting the body heal.
