Mastectomy 17th March. New pain/ discomfort over ribs

A guess -- the breast tumour could be creating enough pressure to press on a nerve in that area, resulting in pain. If that's the case, the removal of the breast would resolve this in two ways -- the surgeon would be able to verify there is nothing dodgy behind the breast, and the release of the pressure would give that nerve a break, although said nerve may be busy by then responding to the surgery.

Suitable clothing: most women here advise front-fastening garments. For me, an over-the-head wide cotton dress did the trick every time, but not everyone might like that, it may well be that something that opens on the front would be more comfortable.

I got myself two pairs of leggings that were deliberately at least one size larger than my actual size, to allow for ease of dealing with, and for my body to be able to "breath" and be comfortable inside the garments if I chose to wear it for a long time, such as if I were cold. 

Immediately after surgery you would be wearing a hospital gown anyway, and in some cases they also want you to wear their own-issue underpants, so your own clothes only come into it once you prepare to go home, or if you prefer to wear your own underpants.

I'm also going in March 17th for a bi lateral mastectomy and am absolutely panicking. I've got various front fastening tops and a front fastening bra. There's lots of mad questions in my head, do I need to take my own towels as there's no laundry service or am I just being daft. 

I know what you mean about questions. I haven't got a front fastening bra yet. Wasn't sure if I could wear a bra straight away. 

Thank you for this.

Ahrensmum said:

do I need to take my own towels

The four hospitals I stayed overnight in during the past year all provided towels. These included two NHS hospitals, two private places (not my choice; I was told by the NHS to go to these places for my last two surgeries.)

Cautious conclusion: they will provide towels. Best to ask when you go for the pre-assessment.

Hello Mist12, not sure if you are still reading this thread, but I hope all went well with your mastectomy. I am awaiting surgery too, and am experiencing similar rib pain. My CT was also clear, but it's really alarming. Did it go away after your mastectomy, or did you discuss it with your medical team?

Like GreyCats explained, I was told my rib/chest pain was most likely to be due to the cancer causing pressure on a nerve. I had a normal CT too. The rib/chest pain gradually eased over 3-4 months after surgery. It took quite some time and I remember being concerned about it, though my oncologist was not at all. In the end, it did settle as she had anticipated. I did mention the chest ache every time I went to chemo until the pains eased - there was a pre chemo symptom questionnaire to discuss with the chemo nurse. I hope your discomfort eases after surgery too xx