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Simple13
Simple13 Member Posts: 45
edited March 2016 in Surgery - Before, During, and After

I am having a left mastectomy with TE on March 16, and am trying to get my sister to understand the complexities of this surgery. She is totally clueless and I don't think that she will be able to give me the help and support that I need to get me through the recovery period. I feel that I am totally alone in the "prepping" stage and even after the surgery. Not even sure I can count on her being there when I wake up. Any thoughts or helpful hints?

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  • Skittlegirl
    Skittlegirl Member Posts: 428
    edited March 2016

    I had a BMX with no expanders or reconstruction. However, I was alone in the hospital a lot because my husband was dealing with our 3 kids. The nurses took good care of me.

    Once home, I did pretty well on my own. Surgeon cleared me to drive 8 days after surgery as long as I felt I could drive safely and wasn't on the pain killers. I didn't have any restrictions except no housework, which I kinda ignored with 3 young children. I was making lunches, doing laundry , and dishes at 5 days post-op. I was able to shower on my own at 2 days post-op.

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  • Simple13
    Simple13 Member Posts: 45
    edited March 2016

    Thanks for the good information. I am having a hard time explaining that I have to take 3-4 weeks off work and that I will have to stay in the hospital overnight. She (my sister) seems to think it's no big deal and I think that is what ticks me off most. She doesn't seem to "get it". You sound like you have it together. I kind of ignore housework also but that will be our little secret (grin). Have to have a drain(s) so no showers for a while.

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  • Skittlegirl
    Skittlegirl Member Posts: 428
    edited March 2016

    I could still shower with drains. My BS said to pin them to a lanyard.

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  • Simple13
    Simple13 Member Posts: 45
    edited March 2016

    Really? I was told no showers. I think I will have to have another chat with the doctors. Supposed to have a pre-op appointment on Tuesday so I will get all my questions answered (hopefully). Anything else I should know?


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  • Mckaylaleigh
    Mckaylaleigh Member Posts: 90
    edited March 2016

    I haven't had anyone other than my husband and honestly, I could have made it without him. My house isn't as clean as it normally would be and whatnot, but it can wait.  Maybe once she is there she will see that there is more to it and that you do need her help.  I wish I could be there to help you.  All doctors are different, mine told me I could shower 48 hours after but I waited a little longer and even then I wrapped myself in suran wrap and tried to keep my check out of the water.

    I am not sure if this will make a difference for you since you are only having the left down, but I would put everthing that you will be needing/wanting at waist level so you aren't bending or stretching to get things. I didn't buy any special garmets or anything that so many women do and honestly, I they would have went to waste if I did, I didn't need them. I am wrapped in an ace bandage and have my drains pnned to that.

    Good luck with everything, you got this!



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  • Simple13
    Simple13 Member Posts: 45
    edited March 2016

    The surgery got postponed until March 30th so I am still trying to get my sister and me on the same page. I want her to go to the next Doc appointment with me, but I detect some hesitation on her part, so we shall see. Thanks for the encouraging words and advice.

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  • Mckaylaleigh
    Mckaylaleigh Member Posts: 90
    edited March 2016

    I am sorry. My surgery got postponed 5 days before it was scheduled (I got sick) and that was tough emotionally. I definitely think you should try to get your sister to go with you, I sure hope she comes around!

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  • Simple13
    Simple13 Member Posts: 45
    edited March 2016

    Yes, I think she is coming around. It seems that she wants to help all she can. I think I just have to tell her what to do or what I need help with. My surgery on the 30th is outpatient. Is there anything special that I need to be aware of?

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