Here's What You Need - Prepping for Breast Cancer Surgery

After joining several different online breast cancer support groups, the same question keeps coming up - "What do I need to prepare for my breast surgery and recovery?"

While it's fresh on my mind, I wanted to provide a list of supplies I used most at home. I also include a quick list for packing a hospital bag. Hopefully these lists reach those who are looking for comprehensive, realistic items to gather prior to surgery. 

For context, I had two breast surgeries: a bilateral mastectomy and bilateral DIEP Flap reconstruction. The items I list were used for one or both surgeries. I'll add a * for mastectomy and ^ for DIEP to clarify when each supply came in most handy.

I encourage searching thrift shops for many of these items. For others, I offer alternative ideas if buying something new isn't an option. 

Breast Surgery Supply List

COMFORT

• Post Mastectomy Pillow*^​
  • I talk more about it in this post.
  • Alternative Idea: A long, narrow pillow, or a rolled up towel or blanket could serve the same purpose. The main goal is to protect your chest and provide cushion under the armpits.

• Wedge Pillow *^
  • These are good for keeping your chest elevated while resting, which is recommended. There are a wide variety of ways to use the pieces for maximum comfort. The rounded piece was something I used in the car over my stomach, in addition to my post mastectomy pillow (above), following the DIEP Flap surgery.
  • Alternative Idea: Rest in a recliner, or stack pillows against a headboard or couch arm for back support. Place pillows under knees or feet for comfort or elevation. Body pillows can be adapted to many different configurations.

• Neck Pillow*^​
  • ​I talk more about it in this post.
  • Alternative Idea: A rolled up towel or blanket could serve the same purpose. The main goal is to support your neck while sleeping upright.

• Sleep Eye Mask*^​
  • ​I talk more about it in this post.
  • Alternative Idea: A bandana, towel, or blanket could serve the same purpose. The main goal is to block light for rest.

• Robe*^
  • Having a robe was nice to throw on while I was doing dressing, drain, and scar care. Also if there was an unexpected visitor! The robe linked/pictured has drain holders which could be useful, but I just have regular, old robes. I was able to find some great robes at a thrift shop.

• Button/Zip Tops & Button Up PJ Sets*^
  • Button or zip tops will become vital until you're able to raise your arms to put a shirt on over your head. I lived in PJ sets during recovery and was able to find all that I needed at a local thrift shop. Sweat sets are another option. You can also pair a button or zip top with any pair of pants once you're feeling more mobile.

• Slip-on Shoes & Slippers*^
  • Slip-on shoes for leaving the hospital. 
  • Slippers for home.

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PERSONAL HYGIENE

• Rinse Free Shampoo Caps*^
  • ​I talk more about it in this post.
  • ​Alternative Idea: A regular hair wash in the sink, tub, or shower! I was chicken to bathe after my mastectomy.

• ​Washcloths*^
  • ​I talk more about it in this post.
  • ​Alternative Idea: A regular wash in the tub or shower! I was chicken to bathe after my mastectomy.

• Colgate Wisps*^
  • Many times I didn't want to or have energy to do self care. I kept some Wisps on my side table when I needed to freshen up.
  • Alternative Idea: Use your normal toothbrush.

• Other "Just in Case" Items to Have on Hand:
  • Gauze Pads^
  • Medical Tape^
  • Vaseline and/or Neosporin^
  • Alcohol Wipes*^ (using these makes stripping drain lines easy/not painful on fingers)

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MOBILITY

• ​Folding Walker with Wheels^​
  • I talk more about it in this post.​
  • ​Alternative Idea: Use a chair, using the back of the chair for stability.

• Bathroom Bench Bath Chair*^​
  • I talk more about it in this post.
  • ​Alternative Idea: Plastic or water resistant chair. Sitting on the edge of the tub.​
    

• Grabber Reaching Tool *^
  • You're encouraged to use "T-Rex Arms" for a period of time. When no one is around to help, this reaching tool was priceless!
  • Alternative Idea: Be a better planner than me and have everything you need in a reachable place, or ask for help!

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HEALING GARMENTS

• Abdominal Binder Post Surgery Belly Wrap^​
  • I talk more about it in this post.
  • ​Alternative Idea: Stick with the binder sent home from the hospital. 

• Drain Holder Top*^
  • There are many different options out there, but the linked/pictured hooded, zip-up sweatshirt from Hope Chest was my favorite. It was gifted to me by a sweet family member. The tops have internal pockets to hold your drains and tubes. These tops made me feel secure, especially when going into public.
  • Alternative Idea: Stick with the drain belt sent home from the hospital and wear oversized tops.
    

• IV/Port Multi-Access Tops
  • I did not have chemo or radiation, so I did not need this top, but it looks like a really good investment for those who do. The arms zip open for IV access and the front zips open for port access. 

• Compression Socks*^
  • There is a lot of sitting required for recovery. To help prevent blood clots, compression socks are important.
  • Alternative Idea: Elevate your legs above your heart when able to ensure better blood flow.

• Heated Leg + Calf Massager*^
  • These are a bit of a splurge but, in addition to compression socks and/or leg elevation, these massagers helped when my calves were tight or legs were restless.
  • Alternative Idea: Use a heating pad or warmed lotion and perform self massage on your calves.

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BOREDOM BREAKING ACTIVITIES
You'll have lots of time on your hands! Keep your mind active by picking up or asking for the following:

• Trivia, Puzzle, Coloring Books
• Puzzles
• Journal
• Knitting, Crocheting, Embroidery
• Gem/Diamond Art
• Reading Books
• Phone Games
• Game System, Nintendo Switch

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Packing for the Hospital

I had inpatient stays for my two surgeries. Here's what I packed:

• For the Hospital
  • Comfy clothes that include a button or zip top with loose pants
    • No bra is necessary as you'll either have dressings and/or a compression bra from the hospital. 
  • Slip-on shoes
  • Personal care items
    • They may discourage deodorant if you had lymph nodes removed.
  • Sleep mask
  • Phone/Other chargers, consider a charging block as well
  • Activities to pass the time
  • Favorite snacks
  • Comfort items like a blanket or stuffed animal
• For the Car
  • Post-Mastectomy Pillow as a seatbelt barrier
  • Neck Pillow in case you doze off

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Other Ideas

I'll add to this list if I think of more items that were important during my breast surgery recovery periods. If there is something you used during yours that I didn't include, feel free to leave a comment and I'll add it in to the post attributed to you!

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NOTE: You may notice I didn't include hot/cold packs. These are not encouraged for pain relief following breast surgery. If left on too long tissue damage can occur because you won't have sensation to alert you.

DISCLAIMER: This list won't apply to all, may not be accessible to all, is not exhaustive, and, in some cases, you should chat with your doctor if you have questions.