Awaiting mastectomy and reconstruction

Hi Rachel. 

I understand how you feel. I had a double mastectomy, reconstruction (implants) and sentinal node biopsy with 6 nodes removed early March this year and was so nervous before hand.  I have to say I was rapt with how it all went. Yes day 1 after I was zonked but I quickly started to improve and got my legs moving as soon as I could. I did stop taking the heavy painkillers as soon as possible and I really believe that helped.  I had drains in and got to carry them around like little dogs for about 7 days ha ha. I almost named them! 

I was also nervous about looking at my chest after the surgery but was blown away at how that looked too. I only had scarring under the new bust line. I don't know why but I expected it to be different.  But that would depend on what type of reconstruction you're having.

I ended up being in hospital for 7days. I took my laptop and borrowed a tv series to watch and I read, took a crossword mag, wrote in a journal. Took my own tea and chocolate supply. As a mother of 3 little boys I missed them but I have to admit it was kind of nice to not "do"much and have all my meals cooked and placed in front of me! 

By day 10 after surgery I was amazed at how great it all felt and how I had healed. But I continued to feel tired on  and off for about 3weeks. 

Anyway that was my  experience but obviously everyone's is different and depends on the procedure performed. I really hope yours is similar. I wish you the very best for Fri. It'll be here before you know it and then you' ll be out the other side :-)

Shellie oxox 

Hi Rachel

Friday will soon be here then become a distant memory. 

As long as you like and trust your medical team you will be OK.  It is all very daunting but ask every question you can think of, even ones which you feel are 'silly' - they aren't - and the answers will give you strength.  Knowledge is power.

I had a mastectomy last year but was not offered any reconstruction at the time - it all happened so fast and I had no options at all.  I have got through it with the help of lovely ladies on this site.  When you feel 'alone' jump on and someone will talk with you.

My hospital stay went from the expected 3 nights to 7 due to complications and extra surgeries but it went by quickly - you will find the staff are so good - and I made jokes about myself which made them laugh with me. Laughter is good medicine.

As soon as your specialists give you the all clear to move around start walking around the ward.  Talk short trips to begin with and increase it each day - this will aid your recovery.  I began with taking my drainage tubes and drip but the latter soon disappeared.

Apart from the exercise, you will soon begin to chat with other 'walkers' and that makes the time pass quickly.

Good luck for Friday and we will all be watching for your next post.

Hugs and prayers for a restful hospital stay ...

Summer  :-)

Hi Rachael not long to wait, Friday will be here good luck. You haven't said what type of reconstruction you are having. Recovery time will depend on what type of reconstruction you are having. Good luck x