Question about Bi-lateral Mastectomy recovery

Well, I went back to work three weeks after my bi-lateral mastecomy.  I certainly think you could go on a trip such as you describe.  My only reservation would be the drive; hopefully you wouldn't be going alone and could share the driving. 

Hi Bettina,

My first operation was a unilateral mast  of the L breast and the BS took 9 nodes. I went back to work in a little less than 2 weeks. The first 5 days were the worst, as far as the lack of mobility in my left arm and keeping those drains out of the way. The BS removed my two drains on day 10, which was a huge relief.

A year later I had a prophylactic mast of the R breast and, as the BS did not take any nodes, this surgery was a piece of cake compared to the first.

Long story short (SORRY--), yes  - I think your trip is quite doable, well-deserved and will do you a heck of a lot of good, physically and psychologically.

Raye

My circumstances were definitely atypical.  I think your trip sounds like a lovely idea!

I traveled by car four days post-surgery.  But, my trip was a wee bit shorter with straight and flat roads.  I also did trips at two and four weeks post-surgery.  My experiences varied from good to difficult.  I had nausea from the pain meds which made things more complicated.  Fortunately, my dear hubby was willing to stop for as long as needed to let my stomach settle.

Small pillows were extremely important for comfort to protect tender areas from the seatbelt rubbing.  I used two or three that were generously given to me at the hospital.  I wore a zip up jacket to hide the drains and tubes.  We traveled with Sprite Zero and dry crackers in case of nausea.

Consider taking several pillows and/or a wedge to make sure you can be comfortable when sleeping.  Some rentals do not have lots of pillows on the bed. 

I think the trip sound great. I also went back to work three wks after my bi-lat. So I don't see why you can't travel. Ask your surgeon but I think you will get the OK. Do take pillows with you as dancingneedles suggested. They may not have enough for you there. Hopefully the drains will be gone by then. if not they can be hidden but you are going for R&R so it may not be a big issue for you. I hope that your surgery goes well and that you recover quickly. The hospital gave me a small pillow and I also got one in the mail from the american cancer society to use under the seatbelt. They are a must to prevent any rubbing and to keep it away from your incisions. Just take a break from time to time and go at your own pace. (and ENJOY)

Best wishes.

The trip sounds so lovely!!  

Pillows are a BIG must for the drive.  For about 2 months post-mast, I had to use a pillow hugged to my chest to prevent "road jiggles."  I live about 1 1/2 hours from our work and they are re-paving I80 and the road surface is VERY veriable - those ups and downs were awful without a pillow but fine with a pillow hugged against the chest.  

Enjoy your get away!