Mastectomy preparation advice

Hi Harvestmoon, I had a mastectomy with diep flap reconstruction in October, so thought I'd share some of the items I purchased. I bought a v shaped pillow, as I slept propped up, which worked really well. I bought armpit pillows, as I also had lymph nodes removed, so made things a bit more comfortable. I bought nightdresses which buttoned up the front as well as blouses, as they were easier to take on and off. I got post op bras from m&s, which I was very happy with. I also picked up a dressing gown from Asda for £16, which has  pockets inside for drains. I only had 1 drain, which was removed before I left the hospital. A mastectomy pillow has been really useful, for in the car. Also a good buy for me was a long handled body puff, for washing in the shower, saved too much bending. You may not wish to purchase all these items, but you might find some useful. Good luck with your surgery, hope all goes well. Xx

Thank you Daisy24 

I'm not having any reconstruction,  so does that change the advice re sleeping position or will I still be more comfortable propped up.

Hope you are having a good recovery x

My mastectomy also without reconstruction is a few days before you so I can’t speak yet from experience of using things but I’ve got a v shaped pillow from Ikea - £9 I think - and post surgery bras from m&s and primark. The v shaped pillow seems good for reading in bed so I think I will get use from it longer term, but I can’t imagine wearing the M&S bra if it wasn’t a medical necessity. Hoping you have a speedy and full recovery.

I would think it may be more comfortable propped up for a little while. You might get by with just a few pillow though. 

If you're not having reconstruction, m&s also do foam inserts which are really comfortable. I bought one as I still have to have a reduction of the healthy breast, so a bit lopsided at the moment. Xx