Mastectomy advice

Hi Lara17.  I'm glad you posted this as I am having a mastectomy on 12th and had been pondering this too! I have a few zip up fleeces but what to wear underneath? I will also have a tummy wound so will tracksuit or pyjama  bottoms even be uncomfy? I have just received a pack from Macmilan telling me I will need at least two soft, non -wired, back fastening bras and also spanx type pants to wear for 6-8 weeks afterwards, (I'm going to be sooo hot!!) so had better get shopping!

I'm sure someone will be able to answer our questions.....

Sorry, just seen your name is Kathryn!

Hi to you both,

as long as the top is reasonably loose then all you need to do (and you can practise this now) is put the affected arm in first, get the top all well up towards your shoulder and then other arm in and use that to help the top over your head and then just straighten it all out.  Tight tops are much more difficult! 
hope that helps? 
and I hope surgery all goes well for you 

Hugs xxx

And about bras, if you’re having a mastectomy then underwired bras aren’t recommended; partly because of the inevitable nerve damage post surgery, as you will not feel any potential sore areas! 
go for comfort and ease, I always fasten my back fastening bras in front and then spin around (have done so ever since I had a shoulder injury long ago!) . Some hospitals ask you to take in a comfy bra ready for the op, some  (including mine) ask you to wear your most comfy on your first appointment back so they can pad round the drain for you 

Hugs xxx

Thanks for that mommy will start practising x 

Hope you find it easy! I was an OT before retiring so adapting daily living tasks was a part of my remit!

Hugs xxx

Thanks moomy that's very helpful. All the best for your op Kathryn x

Sorry previous should have said moomy stupid predictive text x 

You too x

Initially I used some of my husband's casual shirts and leggings. I also used a zip up fleece over a loose T-shirt. I wasn't allowed to raise my arm on the affected side but if it's loose you can cope.  My problem was putting my socks on ( I had a DEIP). I had to wear a compressions bra but again I had immediate recon. I also used light compression knickers or cycling shorts to help with the abdominal wound - again for DIEP. Buy a front fastening bra. But, it's like having a newborn things move on quick quickly so don't go overboard on clothes just a few basics or adapt what's in your (or husband's???) wardrobe.