This is not meant to be medical advice. Please consult your clinician.
Getting ready for breast surgery? It might feel like a lot, but with the right prep and a few handy tips, you'll be ready to handle it with ease. Whether it's a mastectomy, lumpectomy, or reconstruction, a little planning can make all the difference and set you up for a smoother recovery.
Planning Ahead
Preparation is key. Start by making a list of everything you'll need and organizing your home to create a comfortable space where you can rest and recover.
Make sure to have essentials within easy reach, like medications, water, and snacks (don’t forget the snacks!). Plus, think though some activities you'll be able to do while recovering, such as watching tv and reading, and prepare those items.
Stock Up:
Buy plenty of necessary supplies such as gauze, bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any medications. It’s better to have too many than not enough.
Meal Prep:
Prepare and freeze meals ahead of time—this will be a lifesaver. Think soups, smoothies, casseroles, or pre-chopped meals so you can eat without much effort.
Comfortable Clothing:
Choose loose, comfortable clothing that’s easy to put on and take off without lifting your arms. Adaptive clothing is ideal, but your wide-neck shirts and zip-up hoodies are great options as well.
Support System:
Arrange for a friend or family member to help you out for the first few days post-surgery. It'll be painful to move around, so it's key to have someone around to assist with daily tasks. Plus, having someone there to keep you company can be a huge relief.
Day of the Surgery:
On the day of your surgery, focus on staying calm. Practice deep breathing exercises. Bring a book, magazine, or music to help pass the time and keep your mind occupied.
Make sure you’ve packed a hospital bag with essentials like your ID, insurance information, a list of medications, comfortable clothing, and any personal items you’ll need.
Post-Surgery Care
Recovery is a crucial part of the process. Follow your surgeon’s instructions closely, and don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team with any concerns.
Rest and Relaxation:
Give your body the time it needs to heal. Be patient with yourself and listen to your body’s signals.
If you're feeling better, engage in gentle movements with your doctor’s approval and guidance. Light walking can help prevent blood clots and promote healing.
Pain Management:
Take your pain medications as prescribed. Using ice packs can also help reduce swelling and discomfort.
Follow-Up Appointments:
Keep all follow-up appointments to ensure your recovery is on track. Your doctor will check your progress and address any issues that may arise.
And here’s a little insider tip: consider investing in adaptive clothing to make the recovery process even easier.
The Easy-on Adaptive Bra by Springrose is designed with post-surgery needs in mind.
Its velcro front-closure design makes it simple to wear without the need for overhead movements or aggravating any surgical sites.
Remember, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.