Gift to Me! 285 Cc Sientra Smooth Round HSC Moderate Plus

These things really do have a mind of their own right now. I think the best advice is that this entire process takes time, it is not a sprint. The other day I was convinced the left one was higher, then the right, then the left. Unless something is seriously wrong (signs of infection or extreme pain) it's a good idea to just chill, try to forget about them beyond instructions to follow from your surgeon, and see where everything is in 3 to 6 months.

This week I started applying Biocorneum twice a day, after it dries I apply tape over it because I like having that layer over the incision site. Based on healing of my injuries from my being a complete hazard in the kitchen I don't even know if I really need to use the Biocorneum but it can't hurt. I started testing it out on a 4 month old burn scar and it seems to be doing something.

The past week was the most annoying with the zings and pings as healing takes place. No actual pain, just the body going through its process and reminding me that there are quite a few nerves in breasts.

So very happy!

I've been feeling pretty darn fantastic since day one. It is so easy to potentially over do it during this time, it's important to be mindful of that!
I had my steristrips swapped out for micropore tape. Was advised to begin the massage and continue to wear the strap.
Still in love with my new breasts, possibly to an unhealthy degree, lol.
My right breast is settling faster than the left, which is normal. I'll continue to wear the strap and massage and what not. Looking forward to it catching up with the other side!
No pain or issues, just weird sensations, zings, and pings! A funny thing that happens is I can be completely relaxed and my breasts will feel softer, if I get a chill or goosebumps it's like my whole chest sort of tenses up a tiny bit. The feeling goes away as quickly as it comes, just weird and random.
Beyond thrilled I was able to do this for myself, at this time I would not change a thing.

1. The bloat & back up is real. This is normal with surgery and taking 2.5 mg oxycodone night of, and two nights after probably doesn’t help. Taking Duloclax daily, staying very hydrated, drinking kefir/spinach smoothies, eating nonstop… ugh. Someone on here kindly suggested a cup of coffee, a double cappuccino this morning did the trick! I would strongly suggest that route before reaching for something stronger to get things moving.

I am basically eating like a bottomless pit, if there’s one thing these little T-REX arms can do it’s pick up food and stuff it in my face! Yay for food prep, right?

2. The strap gets annoying, but it needs to be worn. This is a part of this process that I must accept. I did a DIY modification similar to a pad you can add to a seat belt strap. I have some super squishy thick socks; I cut the toes off and put the strap through the socks, placing them along the strap so I can get them right at the part where it hits my armpits to give some cushion. It feels so much better, these modifications are successful at alleviating the annoyance while keeping the strap in place with appropriate pressure. Also, I’m able to CAREFULLY get some loose t shirts on now. Most front button up clothing does not cover the strap so I was having to modify with pins/clips.

3. The post-surgery bra – I shrunk it a bit in the wash, lesson learned. It’s fine but I needed help getting it back on the first time. So far, I’m good on my own. Also, my instructions say I can take 1-hour breaks from time to time, but I do not feel comfortable doing that without some support. During my “break” I am using some front close sports bras I purchased but they do not provide the same level of support as the post-surgery bra provided. The bra provided is Design Veronique #457-Z Yesmina Z; it has back hook & eye closure and front zip with 2 hook and eyes at the top and bottom of the zip. It’s very comfortable and holding everything in place, I will continue to wash & wear this one; and use my less structured bras during my breaks.

4. Showering! I showered the 3rd day after (72 hours) and it was fantastic!!! I was very careful and had help adjusting the shower head prior to getting in. I did my hair in sections so as not to get shampoo in my eyes; I could do the front part with my T-REX arms, rinse, then do the back part and rinse. I was able to really wash the important bits but you still really need to be mindful of physical limitations and not push yourself too much. Some of the markings came off easily, some are a bit more stubborn, so I’ll let them fade on their own without scrubbing too much.

5. The guests of honor, still processing that they are “mine” I initially found myself almost afraid of them, this is fading. I’ll need to work through the complexities of that in order to begin massaging them as directed next week. I absolutely love them! I am so happy they are mine and I was able to do this for myself. The bruising came in a bit more and is fading at the same time. No actual “pain” just unfamiliar feelings that I can’t quite put my finger on as far as description is concerned. I FREAKING LOVE MY NEW BOOBS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I maniacally grin from ear to ear when I think of them.

6. Sleeping! I ended up getting a Yogibo Moon Pillow, it’s fantastic up against my headboard with my pillows stacked to sleep upright-ish. I have a large pillow on each side of me and one for under my knees for at night. It’s comfortable for sleeping but my bed really isn’t convenient for chill time/in/out during the day without using my arms and having to ask for help all the time. The sofa is good for during the day to chill and read books. The Yogibo Support Reading Pillow would be even better but you need for time for delivery, we have one on the way for my son’s room.

7. Pain & Meds! Taking as prescribed! I’ll finish my antibiotics tomorrow, the 5th day post. I took 2.5 mg oxycodone at bedtime spaced apart from my nighttime meds; the night of through the 3rd night. Overall, this is helped with a nice restful full night sleep, but I don’t think it necessary to continue. I begin to taper off the rest of the meds over the next week. The pain has basically been nonexistent, I know each experience is different, but for me it’s been a freaking cake walk. The strap is honestly the most bothersome part but I fixed that with the socks. I just have weird random feelings that move around the breasts, no actual aches or pains, just sensations.

8. Prep & Help! You cannot prepare enough! Practice T-Rex Arms and Sleeping Position at least a month in advance. This will help you identify areas of your home that you will experience limitations in and give you time to adjust. I am SHORT, 5 ft. tall. and I have deep kitchen counters. I have everything that I would commonly use or need on the counter close to the edge, chargers set up where they need to be without reaching. My desk is set up at a standing level so I don’t reach and can type like a little T-Rex, it’s perfect! Test this out prior! For food prep, I chopped a ton of fresh fruit, veg, and greens; make sure to pack these in smaller containers so they’re easier for you to get for yourself. I froze some favorite meals. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and/or accept help with things. Maybe the potato chips are up too high, and a step stool isn’t going to get you there! ;P I can do laundry, but I need help getting the wet clothes into the dryer and out of the dryer; from there I can do basic folding… You can actually do quite a bit with T-REX arms, doesn’t mean you should do it all though! Take it easy, be mindful!

9. Kids & Pets! I have a small dog that is like velcro, it was a change for her to not be able to snuggle up with me all the time. I take time to sit down on the floor with her and give her some dedicated attention, pets, and snuggles without stressing my body. She is not a puller so I was able to take her for a walk today (4th Day Post) and pick up a cup of coffee. If you have a dog that pulls at all DO NOT RISK A WALK, PLEASE WAIT. I have a teenager that is fairly independent, so I just stick to my regular check-ins and what not. If you have younger kiddos, recovery time would be the perfect time to let them eat ice cream for breakfast and watch that one movie or show on repeat! Maybe play a long game of monopoly or put together a giant puzzle? Chill but engaging activities that won’t stress your recovery.

I absolutely love my new breasts and I am extremely curious to observe the healing process. I can already tell that my left will settle a bit slower than my right. I will continue to post updates/photos.