What are your Tips for Sleeping After Mastectomy?

I have a recliner that I bought when my husband had some surgery. I actually slept in it for several weeks because it was so comfortable - snuggled me in and I put pillows in front and in the side. I bought a pillow for the front of me that went around me with a pocket in it. I used that all day and night for comfort and protection. Also Soma makes a bra that holds the drains and it is so comfortable. It made it easy to tuck the drains away. After two weeks I used pillows in my bed and slept on my back slightly inclined. I found it the best for me. I didn’t have any pain after my bilateral mastectomy. The surgeon used long lasting nerve block and I never even used the pain killers they gave me. Please do take a probiotic if they give you antibiotics after the surgery to protect your stomach. Another tip a friend with experience gave me was to make sure your diet includes a ton of good protein to promote healing. She suggested Fairlife protein drink as a snack and I did that and healed well. All my best to you. Hope this all helps.

I made a mastectomy pillow which was very helpful whenever in the car and sleeping. I too am a side sleeper I slept about the first 7- 10 days in the living room recliner. I moved everything I'd need to the counter in the kitchen. My first major milestone for myself was to use the coffee maker by myself with the aide of a small foot stool. Since arm mobility is restricted I was elated to make my own cup of coffee in the morning.

The pillow was easy to make and I used cheerful colors which helped to redirect me from why I was using the pillow.