Tips foe showering after BMX w DIEP recon

Hi Westphel,

Great Question! We're looking forward to hearing from others on how they have managed bathing in the weeks and months after surgery.

You may like to read this section on the main site while you wait.

After Mastectomy And At Home Recovery

Best of luck,

The mods.

I was not allowed to shower until my drains were out, luckily they were out the day I left hospital. I purchased a bath stool and although I only needed it for about 2 weeks, it was welcomed. You have to bend your head down to shampoo due to arm restriction and being able to sit helped. I also didn't have the energy to stand that long, especially in that hunched posture.

I am single and had help from sisters and DD for first 3 week. I had conflicting instructions from doctor's office and hospital surgical unit regarding showers. My first shower was a week after surgery. One sister, an RN, strictly forbid me from getting incisions wet. She instructed others to wrap my midsection (including drains) in saran wrap so I could shower. I had to use shower chair for a few weeks. Washing hair was not a problem since I was 8 weeks PFC at surgery.

Princess, showering after surgery is heaven. Pure bliss. Here's how I managed, with four drains.

Cut a long length of narrow ribbon--grosgrain works well--and string the loops of your drain(s) through it. Tie it in a secure knot and slip it over your head. Now you're wearing your drains as a necklace and there's no chance of dropping them.

Put a plastic stool in the shower so you have something to sit on. I just used the plastic step I have in my closet to reach my shoe shelf; it doesn't have to be anything fancy. A plastic lawn chair would be fine too. You just don't want to get dizzy and pass out in the shower. Have another adult hang around in case you need a hand.

It's OK to get your incisions wet; just let the shower water flow over them. You don't want to soak them, such as in a bathtub or swimming pool, but brief shower flow is OK. Use a mild soap on your skin. Be aware that the hot water may stimulate some itchiness of your skin, don't dig into it. Use a mild lotion.

Enjoy. Revel. Luxuriate.