Mastectomy Surgery

Hi Emma 

I had the same surgery as you last febuary just my left boob removed, i was home after 2 days . my daughter came and stayed with me for 5 days . I was not prepared for the back ache and cough following operation so get honey lemon in and drink lots of it, hot water bottle for your back or a wrap you can put in the microwave i have a lavender one. I managed to get out and walk 4 days later it was slow but worth it. I was back in the gym 6 months later . I bought 3 bras off amazon just stretcy ones not expensive as they cut holes in them . A good support bra to come home in as you have to wear one for 6 weeks. you will feel tight on your tummy but it ill be lovely and flat. just take each day as it comes you will get there. I just wished i was on this site before my operation as find it so useful. hope it all goes well im sure it will. a shirt type nightie is perfect 

Jan 

Hi Emma, I'm having a mastectomy on Thursday but my reconstruction is doing to be delayed because I'm having radiotherapy.

Sorry pressed reply too soon. 

I've ordered myself some cyberjammies as they do them as mix and match so I ordered a top which buttons up in a size bigger than my bottoms and I went with jersey ones. I also wanted something that s modern looking as I'm only 44. They arrived today and feel amazing. So soft and the bottoms have pockets!

Thank you for your advice Jan :)

Sorry to hear about a delay for you, good luck

Oh thank you, I haven't heard of those, will have a google.

Funnily enough while at the hospital for other appts the "plastic" nurse contacted me and we have arranged a "Teams" tomorrow, so hopefully she can give me some hints and tips too

your welcome . Good luck too your be fine 

Hi Emma, I am considering this surgery too so I would be hugely grateful for any hints or tips from your session with the nurse.

I feel like I am trying to decide between radiotherapy and the mastectomy and all the associate reconstruction (or not) with very limited information so am desperately trying to understand the implications…

may I ask, were you offered a choice and, if so, what factors did you consider?

thank you!

Hi Emma G

I had a DIEP 4 years ago. It is a big surgery but with amazing results as you will end up with a very natural looking boob. I did have to have a bit of tweaking and nipple re con etc but it was definitely worth it. Tips for surgery: good post op bra, they put it on you in theatre and good support knickers. I used the gowns in hospital, (they give you a clean one each day) but you will need some push on slippers and dressing gown. 

Also, be prepared for little sleep post-op as they check the blood flow into your new boob every hour for the first 24 hours then every 2 hours for the next 24 and so forth. You will need some help at home for a short period of time afterwards. My stomach was incredibly tight and couldn't straighten up for weeks. Walk when able if only a few steps and do your exercises religiously. It's amazing surgery. Good luck!!!XXXxx