I had a pretty good experience… similar to @meeshodge. I stayed overnight in the hospital, had 2 drains ( no lymph nodes removed as I’d had 4 taken earlier with lumpectomy). Very little pain, was able to control with Tylenol and ibuprofen. I was moving around easily by the third day.
Sleeping was ok, I used a wedge pillow as well and just got used to being on my back.
I also ordered a drain holder for the shower and tops/ hoodie that zipped and had interior drain pockets. I wore a compression wrap which was actually very comfortable and adjustable.
The main thing for me was fatigue… which would hit me late afternoon. Now, 2 - 1/2 mos later, I’m still easily tired. However the holidays can cause that as well!
The drains were the worst part because they are uncomfortable at the skin site and you have to massage and empty them during the day. I had mine out at two weeks and felt so much better ! I started physical therapy at 3 weeks post surgery and am still going for massage. One of my incisions is not pretty and I have some extra skin folds and crevices I’ll be discussing with a plastic surgeon soon. I feel good and am getting used to going flat! Good luck to you!