Upcoming elective double mastectomy

Welcome to the group. My mastectomy was a single skin saving one with immediate reconstruction with expander for later implant. What the girls have said is spot on. It takes time to recover from the anaesthetic and surgery so be kind to yourself and do nothing except laze around nd take gentle walks when you are up to it. Pandol didn't cut the pain for me so I used Tramadol for the first 6 days. I can't take codeine, endone etc. it is important to keep the pain relief up and you may find it all makes you constipated. Coloxyl or similar last thing at night will be your friend also! Let's know how you go. You have plenty of support on this ride. Julie

Hi Jennifer. I had just a single mastectomy 6th December 13, so nearly 2 months post. I had a Portacath put in for chemo which temporarily 3-4 days restricted movement of my arm on the other side. my tips would be - front opening shirts. I didn't own any and hit the op shops (as did my mum, aunt, sister) - front opening bras, soft cotton ones and ask your surgeon how soon you can wear them post. I had them on the day after. - get Breast nurse to order you the BCNA kit with free bra and soft inserts - take your panadol regularly - monitor and let nurses know asap any changes to your bowel movements - lipstick, good hair and good posture for first time you see yourself in the mirror. You are an Amazon!!!! Wear those scars with pride. - Do your physio exercises and try to see a physio a few times post surgery. Oh the bliss of being able to lift arms above your head!! - move your essentials in kitchen/laundry/bathroom to below shoulder height. - ask your physio/surgeon whether/when you can put weight through your shoulders. I got very very good at bum shuffling around in bed and using my Abs to get myself out of a chair. - make friends with your drains. Alternatively make them the scapegoats for any rage. Funnily enough I didn't mind them when I was in hospital, but once I got home I felt they were invading my life. - Get used to drying and dressing yourself taking twice as long. I found this the most frustrating part of any day until.I.realised I wasn't in a hurry for anything, so I used it as opportunity to.practice mindfulness.