Preparing for surgery

Hi. Here are a few things that spring to mind.  A small pillow to use under the seatbelt in the car on the way home. Post surgery bra. Soft crop top bras (I found these really good for support when sleeping). Clothes that are easy to put on and off as your arm might be limited in motion. Dry shampoo as it will be a few days before you can shower as you have to keep the dressings dry.

i am sure others will be along soon with more ideas.   Good luck for your surgery 

Thanks thats really helpful. I am starting to panic I am not prepared 

Hi CBearG  

I’m sorry you are starting to panic, it is a scary time in the run up to surgery so it’s perfectly normal but you will be well looked after.

I only had a lumpectomy so can only share my experience but, to be honest, I didn’t need very much at all. I wore a zip up hoody to hospital and when I was at home wore stuff that was easy to put on and off like vests I could step into and cardigans. I know lots of people find cushions under the arm and in the car helpful but I found it more awkward and hassle than anything so quickly abandoned that and only used my usual cushions in bed.

In terms of bras, I had some “invisible” crop tops from Primark which were brilliant (still wear them now under close fitting clothes). They are completely seamless and I stepped into them plus they have removable padding which felt protective and gave good shape. A decent sports bra was my best item, not the cheaper ones which I thought were no good, but a proper medium or high support sports bra which is designed to hold everything in place. I wore a zip front Nike one I already had and it was perfect. Silicone strips to place over the incision once dressings are off was also a great buy. I only used them a few times but it helped to feel protected. 

I hope everything goes well for you you tomorrow. x 

Thank you so much thats really helpful. Hope your recovery has or is going well x

I recommend having a small pillow to place under the seatbelt during the car ride home. For sleeping, a "V" type pillow is helpful, along with some additional pillows, especially since lying down properly may not be possible for the first few days after surgery.

You'll need a post-surgery bra, and later on, a sports bra. It's also important to wear clothes that are easy to put on and take off, as your arm movement may be limited. I found button-up pyjamas to be simple and convenient.

It’s a good idea to have someone help you with putting on compression leggings and cooking for the first few days, particularly if you have a drain. To make things easier, I prepared small portions of food and froze them before my surgery, which proved to be quite helpful.

Good luck with your surgery!