Bilateral mastectomy + SLNB + TAD

Have you had your surgery yet? I had mine on the 14th and found I took too much to the hospital as really only relied on wet ones for cleaning as was not allowed to have a shower and when i could it was really only a spot wash to avoid getting dressing wet.

So clean undies, good quality pjs that’s were button ups and track pants and button up shirt good easy slip on joggers (as hospital would not allow thongs or anything that would be a trip hazard) I was only in hospital for 2 days with a double mastectomy and that’s only because my blood pressure was slow low

kept me in extra night.

I just wanted to have a good wash and clean undies and bras and then easy wear clothes once leaving, I wanted to brush my teeth and hair and everything else could wait until I left the hospital. 
If I had one suggestion is that the wards are so loud so earplugs would have been good but then again I was are constantly getting checked by nurses due to blood pressure that it might have been more hassle.

don’t be nervous, trust your professionals and have a good sleep. Recovery started when I got home and dealing with the drains and pico dressing was the most challenging but give it a bit over a week and you start feeling semi normal

have a couple of good Drain bags - I was given some from the amazing volunteers who whipped them up on their sewing machines. Those kind volunteers are life savers.

Sorry to see you joining us here, boysmum​ , but you've come to the right place for support & 'lived' experiences. xx

Are you having reconstruction? If 'yes',  you could join the Choosing Breast Reconstruction, Here:
Group: Choosing breast reconstruction | BCNA Online Network

If not having reconstruction, ask your surgeon about an 'aesthetic closure' for the tidiest result - and you could also join the Flatchat group, here:
Group: Flat Chat - no breast reconstruction | BCNA Online Network

Both are PRIVATE groups and you can ask ANYTHING in complete privacy - NO-ONE else can read those posts, unless they are a member!  Both groups would have info that may assist you at some time or other as you go thru your surgery & ongoing treatment xx

It can be a very emotional time too, before, during and after surgery & treatment ..... so if you feel yourself getting sad, angry or concerned about how things are going - have a listen to Charlotte Tottman's podcast on her own Breast Cancer story.  She is a specialist Breast Cancer Psychologist who had a double mastectomy about 5 years ago.  She was quite surprised at just 'how much' it affected her both mentally and physically, as she'd been helping ladies for decades .... and then experienced it all herself!  The podcasts are very easy to listen to & most members find them very helpful.  There are 2 seasons - start off with the first one here (What You don't know until you do Welcome):
https://soundcloud.com/bcna

You can also call our Helpline here for a confidential one on one chat:
1800 500 258

Also, check out this post, that has a wealth of information in it - tips on what to take to hospital (front opening pyjamas, for example! And don't forget the charging cords for you phone/tablet if you take one with you! ) 
Cooking & freezing your favourite meals over the next 2  weeks, will definitely make it easier for you when you get home & may not feel like cooking!   
Maybe Consider moving the things you use EVERY DAY that are in high cupboards or low cupboards onto the bench (Coffee/tea/sugar/coffee mug, favourite saucepan etc) so you don't have to reach for them for the first week or two after surgery (or until your Surgeon or BC Nurse say you can reach up/down.) 
A big welcome to all New Online Network Members ..... | BCNA Online Network

Good/Bad things .... almost everyone has a 'bad day' sooner or later where 'the wheels fall off', no matter how small the reason - it is totally NORMAL xx .... Mine was losing a beautiful 'guardian angel'  pendant whilst I was having radiation (a loved friend had given it to me .... and it just broke me.  I couldn't stop crying.)  Just know that there MAY be bad days .... but with good family & friend support you will get over the hurdle xx  (plus support from us at BCNA - as you can raise ANY issue without fear of rejection xx. As we've ALL BEEN THERE!)
Another 'thing' I discovered was that a lot of people don't know how to handle the news that you're not well & will need surgery & ongoing treatment - they don't know WHAT to say - so they say NOTHING!  (And sadly, that hurts you even MORE!) 
Also - it may surprise you 'who' steps up to the plate and supports you the most - quite often, it is not the person you think it will be! 
Just Be open minded and try not to take it personally ... as it DOES hurt xx

Keep a little diary going re your mental health & physical concerns .... the ups & downs, so that when you see your medical team, you can raise the issues, if they are still a concern for you.  Better still, you should be teamed up with a Breast Care Nurse (usually after your surgery) - and they will become your FIRST port of call for accurate information on any of your concerns. 

Try & keep your sense of humour going - as you'll need it!  We have a 'Funnies' page and a 'Wise Words' thread for some laughs and/or inspiration
Wise words .... | BCNA Online Network .... feel free to add any that you love! xx

After my surgery, I found that a small 'long' cushion was essential to rest my arm on, as it didn't like being 'flat on the bed' immediately after surgery.  (8 years later, I use it under my head when I read in bed!)  

Wishing you all the best as you approach your surgery - take care xx