Post mastectomy advice

[Fushia123]

Having a mastectomy next week - one side (right).
The last few months have been grim with 2 ops. This should be the last. 🤞
I’m scared and sad but getting used to the idea slowly. I’m trying not to read anything online that might worry me any more than necessary (consultant’s appointments have been full of info and were terrifying.) I had some info from the nurses but I gather that things like front fastening bras and pyjamas with front fasteners are useful during recovery. Or can I just use what I’ve got - buying new stuff for such a sad time seems odd. District nurses will come to see me everyday for 2 weeks.
Practical and sensitive advice from anyone who has gone through this would be valuable to read. Thank you. X

I wouldn't buy a bra just yet, you will get too sore, I was. Soft front fastening pj top. Take a front fastening top with you to come home in. Maybe a pashmina or shawl instead of a coat. Easier to put on and softer. Ensure they go through the arm exercises, and start as soon as you can, I didn't and got a frozen shoulder. Get your arm pits waxed just before as it is a while before you can do them again.

If you are not having a recon I recommend NicolaJane bras, better than M an S.

I am pleased to see you are having nursing care, I got none and the breast care nurses were a bit rubbish.

Thank you very much for your kind reply and good advice. I hope your recovery went ok.

When I had my mastectomy, the morning after (before I was sent home) I was given a few softies (fake boob) to try, which wouldn't have been possible if I didn't have an appropriate bra to wear.

Good luck with your surgery x

Thank you. I’ve been given a ‘softie’ but have left it in the bag and not touched it yet. Thank you again. I hope that your recovery was ok.

It sounds like a similar experience to myself. I had three ops in the space of 6 weeks and then eventually a mastectomy. Such a worrying time. In terms of the mastectomy I honestly didn’t find it too bad. I appreciate everyone has different experiences but it wasn’t anything I couldn’t handle. The worst part was the drains they sent me home with. They kept getting caught on things and that definitely does hurt so just be careful with that. Make sure you do your stretching exercises they give religiously.

I had my mastectomy two years ago and I am just getting round to having my reconstruction now as it hasn’t felt the right time until now so just take your time.
I haven’t felt sad about losing a boob because I am so unbelievably grateful that it was all clear in the end and losing a boob was worth that.
Sending lots of love and positive vibes.

Thank you for your kind and encouraging words. I very much appreciate your reply. Thank you again.

I asked my mum before I replied as she’s had a double mastectomy with removal of lymph nodes. She said to avoid anything with a seam or lace or anything that isn’t completely flat and smooth against your wound while you’re healing. Once the dressings come off, you might find you struggle with itching as you’re healing and lace/seams etc will just irritate you hugely. Anything cotton is good. And always front fastening while you’re healing because you’ll need easy access for a while.

She was having some trouble healing on the wound site, so along with having chemo, she cut out sugar completely (apart from sherbet lemons which were the only thing that disguised the metallic taste of the chemo) and it made a huge difference; she was growing new skin so quickly that it really surprised her consultant. Obviously different stuff works for different people but it might help you if you struggle there.

She didn’t have reconstructive surgery and she has quite extensive scarring quite high into her armpit (that’s not usual, bastard disease just would not fuck off), so I expect that’s why, but she could never tolerate any bras with underwire or that firm boning at the sides in. It was always the plain cotton ones and she’d use a bit of t shirt fabric to sew a pocket in for her prostheses. If you decide not to, or to wait a while, you might find the same. Unfortunately, the dog got to her boobs she was given after her op. Bloody thing came wandering into the kitchen with one between his jaws and the other was chomped to bits all over her bed (that was an interesting conversation with the vet!) so she hasn’t really bothered since.

And she also echoed what @DesperatelySeekingHelp said about the drains, and to make sure you do your exercises religiously. And good luck 💐

I haven’t had a mastectomy, but wish you the very best of luck.

i would highly recommend these for complete comfort from M&S:

www.marksandspencer.com/cotton-rich-secret-support-vest/p/clp60717677?color=GREYMARL#intid=pid_pg1pip12g2r5c2

Thank you for your replies - I really appreciate your comments.