Surgery Essentials
Mastectomy Pillow Set- A must have for the car ride home and first few days post surgery. Tuck your phone and necessities into the pockets to keep them within reach. This set includes a pillow strap for your seat belt and a drain lanyard.
Gownie- This wrap dress has pockets for your drains if you prefer not to use a lanyard. I changed into this for my rides home from the hospital for both surgeries.
Drain Pouch- I alternated between wearing my drains on my lanyard and tucking them into this pouch. I liked how I was able to tuck the excess tubing into this so they weren’t loose and at risk of being tugged.
Camisoles- These simple camis were also handy in keeping my drain tubing close to my body.
Non-slip socks- A slight upgrade from the ones you'll be wearing in the hospital.
Lightweight Straw Cup- You’ll be surprised by how hard it is to lift something as simple as a water bottle. I found using a simple cup like this far more convenient than my usual stainless steel tumbler.
Button Down Pajamas- You’ll be living in these for a few days. If you’d like something more luxe, try Lake Pajamas; my sweet friends treated me to these and they were heavenly.
Power Lift Recliner- I lived in this chair for three weeks after my mastectomy and one week after my oophorectomy. The lift to stand feature is so essential. If this is pricey or if you don’t have the space to keep one in your space permanently, you can find a power lift chair rental near you.
Caster Table- I wheeled my meds, meals and water bottle with me between rooms on this handy table.
Abdominal pads- I wore these in my bra to protect my incisions. Your surgeon might have different instructions for you; it might be helpful to have these on hand.
True and Co Wireless Bras- I transitioned to these soft bras after my drains were removed. The band sits lower on the rib cage and did not dig into my incision sites.
Hair Washing Pillow- You won’t be able to shower right away so if you’d like to freshen up, I found this helpful. Use this hair towel when you’re done.