Hi , I had a mastectomy in March 2011 and another one in May 2012. I found the recovery not to bad. Tablets for the pain helped. I also saw a breast nurse at the hospital befoe the op and got two bags that go over your shoulder made from material, to put the drainage bottles in, so much easier to get around. Ask the breast nurse for some, as people make them to donate .
I get so sick from anethestic and that was my biggest fear. I asked to speak to the Dr when I went to have the op and told him my concerns and they gave me a anethestic that would not make me sick. I woke up feeling great both times. Please let them know before they put you under.
Button down pjs are a must, so much easier. I had a horseshoe pillow for hosp,and found it great.
I found my breast nurse great, for after the op support, could ring anytimewith concerns.
Wishing you all the best. Debbie
Hi Tonya, thank you for responding. The waiting game is totally doing my head in, sleepless nights, moody and just plain worrying, I just wish it would hurry up so I can move on.
You mentioned seroma, what's that?? Is it painful when you have it drained?????? What's its caused from!
Love & Blessings
Tanya
xoxoxo
Hi Michelle, Thank you so much for replying your advice is greatly appreciated :-)
How long ago did you have the procedure done? I am so anxious of the whole thing, I'm worried about the anethesetic, the recovery and when I get home. In particular when I get home, as I have been blessed with a grand daughter and its killing me inside that I know when I am in recovery I won't be able to nurse the little munchkin!!!!
I work as an administrator, sitting behind a desk from 9 to 5, so I'm guessing I could return to work once the drainage tubes are removed??????
How do I go about arranging a bra from Berlei?
How rude of me; how are you, when did you have your mastecomy?
Love & Blessings
Tanya
xoxo
I had a mastectomy in 2010.Yes,it's daunting,both physically and mentally but the recovery was easier than I thought. I was in hospital for 3 days and then went home with a drain left in.The drain was possibly the worst part cos you have to drag it around with you.My surgeon took it out a week later.I couldn't wear a bra for many weeks and instead wore a singlet/cami and then a loose fitting shirt.Make sure you have some loose tops for after.The free Berlei bra with soft filler inserts is great and I still wear mine.Your breast care nurse or any health professional can order it from BCNA for you.I got fitted for a prosthesis about 6 weeks post op.I was driving and back at work about 3 or 4 weeks post op -can't remember. I know I had trouble with a seroma on the scarline that kept filling up and needed draining each week for about 5 weeks.It's not uncommon.The other thing that was annoying was I couldn't wear many of my tops cos the neckline was slightly too low. A mastectomy is a big adjustment all round but you gradually get there.Please blog and ask questions here any time.
Tonya xx
I had a mastectomy in 2010.Yes,it's daunting,both physically and mentally but the recovery was easier than I thought. I was in hospital for 3 days and then went home with a drain left in.The drain was possibly the worst part cos you have to drag it around with you.My surgeon took it out a week later.I couldn't wear a bra for many weeks and instead wore a singlet/cami and then a loose fitting shirt.Make sure you have some loose tops for after.The free Berlei bra with soft filler inserts is great and I still wear mine.Your breast care nurse or any health professional can order it from BCNA for you.I got fitted for a prosthesis about 6 weeks post op.I was driving and back at work about 3 or 4 weeks post op -can't remember. I know I had trouble with a seroma on the scarline that kept filling up and needed draining each week for about 5 weeks.It's not uncommon.The other thing that was annoying was I couldn't wear many of my tops cos the neckline was slightly too low. A mastectomy is a big adjustment all round but you gradually get there.Please blog and ask questions here any time.
Tonya xx
Firstly, I am so sorry you have joined the bc club, but you will find so much support and help on this site, from so many girls who have been through it all.
Take advantage of the 6 weeks before your surgery to do things like see your dentist (the last thing you want to do during treatment!) and overhaul your kitchen so that you don't have to reach up for items you use a lot. Stock your freezer with pre-cooked meals, and give your friends a roster to fill out themselves on who can help with cleaning, children, school runs, shopping etc. Perople often want to help and don't know how.
For hospital you are best with front-opening pj tops - easier to check dressings, etc. and get out of easily for showers. Two small pillows for tucking under your arms at night really help to keep you comfortable on your back after surgery. A notebook helps to keep track of future appointments/physio instructions etc.
The operation varies from person to person, but I found it surprisingly pain-free - the post-op meds really work, and in a day or two, panadol does the trick. Have you arranged for the free bra from Berlei yet? You won't wear one at first while you heal, but it will be useful for work until you get organised with your prostheses. I don't know what work you do, so can't comment on how long it would take to go back. After 2-3 weeks of physio exercises you will be surprised at how much better you feel - some you do every hour, but they are worth every minute of effort.
All the very best for your surgery. Stay in touch. Big hug, Michelle x
