Forum Discussion
Next question - on waking
Hi again - still gathering info before my DMX (@kmakm - this might help you too!) and my next question is - what were you wrapped in when you woke up from surgery? I know each surgeon has their own technique so I need to ask mine this question, but I'm keen to hear others' experiences to find out what the possibilities are.
Will I be in bandages? or a support bra? Is there one drain on each side or more than one? Do they normally give you a urinary catheter? I'm having vertical incisions and my nipples are going too, but will be having skin sparing and straight into air expanders. If I end up having an axillary clearance on either side, will that have consequences for how they bandage me up?
So grateful for everyone's help during this dash through the unknown!
Will I be in bandages? or a support bra? Is there one drain on each side or more than one? Do they normally give you a urinary catheter? I'm having vertical incisions and my nipples are going too, but will be having skin sparing and straight into air expanders. If I end up having an axillary clearance on either side, will that have consequences for how they bandage me up?
So grateful for everyone's help during this dash through the unknown!
100 Replies
- I agree @primek....I had my mastectomy on the Tuesday am and physio saw me Wednesday with all the exercises.....told me I had to wait until the Saturday to do the above shoulder/above head exercises
- Just because you can lift your arms above your head doesn't mean you should. I was told specifically nothing above shoulder height for at least a week (it may have been 2 ) so not to put strain on internal suture line. Glad all going well.
- Great to hear Eastmum
- You sound like you’re doing so well @Eastmum ! Keep it up...I remember Day 3 was the hardest for me (and one of the more experienced nurses indicated this was quite common). Those drains are annoying but I always say “better out than in!” Take care and keep us posted xxx
- Thanks @nikkid definitely don’t shy away from pain meds. Day 3 today and really don’t need much. More discomfort than pain. Can’t wait to go home!
- Hi @kmakm - from the coal face, here’s what I’m so happy I came to hospital with (apart from my long charging cables):
. Singlet tops - bought them big and nurse helped me put drains through the arm holes. So comfy and easy for drs and nurses to check everything while giving great cover when visitors come. Plus it’s so hot in my room they’re great to sleep in
. Huge scarf to cover my shoulders and drain bags for when visitors come in or I’m walking around outside
. iPad and netflix
. Wet wipes
. Aromatherapy diffuser with lavender essential oil - so lovely to go to sleep with
. My own pillow from home
. Mints
Desparately praying to the drain fairy to hurry up - I’m so impatient to get drains out. I’m actually feeling terrific and going a bit stir crazy. :) - It is isn’t it? Now it’s all about the healing and recovery. Listen to your body; rest when you need to; be kind to yourself and keep those pain meds up if you feel uncomfortable!!!! X
- Thanks @nikkid - so great to be on the ‘other side’! Xx
- Great to hear @Eastmum! Have been thinking of you xxx
- Oh I'm so glad you were happy with the anaesthetic, makes such a difference. And it sounds like your surgeon has been very considerate and clever. Go you! K xox
