Tips for Mastectomy Recovery and Family Support

I had a DMX 10 days ago. The pain was very manageable with plain Tylenol. I was pleasantly surprised. You may have drains in which you will probably need some help in managing drain care.

I found a topical cbd & arnica cream worked well on my pain with the expanders.

3 days post op...pain is manageable, the drain is more annoying than anything. I find that I am just moving slowly. Lots of support from family and friends...so far, so good.

How's your expanders so far? I'm waiting to get my DMX scheduled.

It's there...doesn't hurt, just feels a bit unnatural. It is not full, so I can feel the hollow areas that are awaiting fluid...I hope that makes sense

Chelle, my expanders feel like I’m wearing a very tight bra. They are 500cc and I’m filled to 450cc. Not painful, just always aware that they are there and I can hear and feel the saline slosh around.

I hadn't even thought about the sound...or maybe I just haven't been in a quiet enough place to hear it...hmmm

I was filled to my expanders capacity and now the sloshing around sound is gone.

I'm not hearing any sloshing, but I can feel the edges...the doc says that the expanders are stitched in in a few places, so that might be some of the pressure I feel at the edges.

Preparing for surgery can feel overwhelming, especially when managing both physical recovery and well-meaning family members who want to help. Many community members have found success with staying ahead of pain medication schedules and setting clear boundaries with loved ones about what type of assistance is actually helpful during recovery. Wishing you strength for your upcoming procedure, and hoping others here will share their practical tips for both pain management and family communication strategies.