Double Mastectomy today

I’m sorry I can’t answer your question as I’m pre surgery but I wanted to bump you back up the list for answers and to wish you good luck, hope it goes smoothly and I’ll be thinking of you ️️️x

I think it depends on each surgeon. My surgeon doesn’t want me to wear a bra for a week and I have a little vacuum pack in. They did give me a softie but I didn’t use it. Wishing you all the very best.

Good luck for your surgery today hope all goes well.

Sending you big hugs

Diane x

Hello Greencyclist

Sorry I cant answer your question but I wish you all the best with your surgery and your recovery xxx

Hi, good luck with your operation. I had post-chemo double mastectomy with some nodes removed for investigation. This was just over a year ago.  I did not use the softies.  I was advised to wear a loose front patterned blouse so as to distract from the flat appearance.  I did not have a drain put in, my surgeon felt it wasn't necessary and she proved correct. I personally decided to keep the clothing around this area quite loose for some time. I got some nerve end pain and didn't want anything adding to this. I  recommend that you do the post-op exercises each day without fail. I had online weekly sessions with a physiotherapist and they helped a lot. I did not have reconstruction, it wasn't an option due to covid and my weight. I have now got used to being flat (I was a 42 H cup!) I put off getting my proper prosthesis until all nerve pain was resolved and until I felt the scar was as good as it was going to get but this was my decision. The prosthesis I was given were of good quality but I choose not to wear them a lot. Frankly, I can't be bothered and they seem heavy now but maybe if I had been going back to work (I was a teacher) I would have worn them and I do for the occasional event. 

I admit to occasionally feeling depressed at my lack but think this might be down to the aromatase (exemestane ) I have to take and the weight that I have put on around my middle (I sometimes joke that my bust has slipped to my middle) I do recommend you try and keep the weight from accumulating here if you can. The other thing you will notice is a tightness across where the scar is. At first, this annoyed me as I felt it resembled the feeling of still wearing a bra but I am used to it now and don't notice it. Apart from my big stomach I am quite content and don't miss my big boobs.

Two major recommendations are to do the exercises and massage the scar tissue (You will be given advice on this) I used bio oil and for a bit, I splashed out on Kelo-Cote Scar Gel but for the size of a double mastectomy, it can be expensive. 

Thinking of you and please don't worry xx

I feel your pain Rozalia. I have now gone so far backwards to menopause middle that I could weep. Particularly as it took me a very long time to lose it at the time. I get that tight feeling too. Ha not worried at all about wearing the softies I just wished that I looked asymmetrical.. Heyho take care and love to everyone xxxx

Hi 

Hope your surgery went well, and you're getting well looked after x

Thank you all for your reply’s,  I haven’t worn a bra or the softies since surgery.  All has gone wee, except for a little serums, but sinc3 had it drained..  braless and flat,   I’m rocking the loo  

Aw so glad to hear it has gone well!  I have a little build up of fluid today and it feels weird! They have told me it’s prob normal! Hope so! I’m thinking you mean you’re rocking the look not the Loo!!!! Good luck xx