Post Mastectomy Must Haves?

Posted by dianetich @dianetich, Jul 31, 2025

I am having a double mastectomy on August 25th. Trying to figure out what I should buy for post surgery recovery. (clothes, pillows, creams etc) What are/were your post-mastectomy "must haves" that you found helpful? Thank you!

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Profile picture for dolphina3 @dolphina3

I had a single masectomy and went home the same day.
Having button or zippered shirts are very helpful.
Have most used kitchen items at lower level so you don't have to reach up.
Make some meals ahead of time and freeze some.
Paper plates.
Wet wipes are nice till allowed to shower.
Night gowns that zip up.
I bought hoodies from Amazon that had inside pockets for drains.
Some people make a sash belt that they can hang drains from.
I propped up pillows in bed to sleep.
Thinking of you and wishing a good recovery.
Sending hugs.

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@dolphina3 Hello,

You have such wonderful suggestions.

I am considering a bilateral mastectomy and your suggestions are insightful and thoughtful.

I can imagine there may be stress following a mastectomy . I found the Belle Roth Naperstek MSW FREE You Tube guided imagery to be helpful.

Best

Susan

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Profile picture for smith777 @smith777

@dolphina3 Hello,

You have such wonderful suggestions.

I am considering a bilateral mastectomy and your suggestions are insightful and thoughtful.

I can imagine there may be stress following a mastectomy . I found the Belle Roth Naperstek MSW FREE You Tube guided imagery to be helpful.

Best

Susan

Jump to this post

@smith777
Hello Susan,

I am glad you found something to guide you that helps.
I kept busy with friends and reading.
I was glad when it was all over and I could get back to doing more things. I remained flat and for me it was the right choice. I didn't want any more surgeries. I think when I looked back I was more relieved than stressed. The first few days I was nervous but then got into the needed routine of emtying the drain.
Thinking of you and hoping all goes well for you.

Hugs
Kathy

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