Double Mastectomy / Direct To Implant

Positive for the BRCA2 gene mutation, family history of breast cancer. I m scheduled to begin my journey on 5/23/24. I will be having all of my tissue removed, as well as the nipples/areola. My skin will be spared.

Surgery was 4 1/2 hours, the breast surgeon completed her work then the plastic surgeon came in to do the reconstruction. I requested a full B or small C. I have a ton of swelling, and bruising. The pain feels like I have been punched many times in my chest. It hurts but I find it tolerable. I have limited motion to avoid feeling the pain. I was able to use the bathroom independently the same day but had trouble wiping up.

The pain meds (Oxy) made me extremely nauseous and I threw up everything I ate for dinner soon after taking the pill. I declined the Oxy for the rest of the night. I slept pretty well and the pain didn’t wake me up.

I have an indent in my right implant. The Dr said that will go away. I was able to walk around the hospital without issue.

I feel fine with the exception of the above mentioned pain. I was discharged at noon the day after surgery. I was able to go into Walmart with my husband to get my prescriptions and some other items. I felt ok enough to sit in the tub with a tiny bit of water to clean up my bottom half. I can’t get my breast wet for a week.

I have two drains on each side (4 total). Output is 15-20 ml. They need to be emptied every 8 hours.

I am managing my pain by alternating Advil and Tylenol. As well as taking Gabapentin and an antibiotic.

Still feeling good. I found an A-line dress big enough to hide my drains. I am thinking I should have bought a couple of maternity tops. I walked around the neighborhood garden center. No issues with eating, or medication. I am quite sore at the bottom area of my breast and the drain sites. One breast is hanging much lower than the other idk if that will correct itself. I loosened the bottom of the sports bra overnight to help with the under the breast pain, it helped a bit. I am able to care or our pets, cook and do light cleaning. I am completely avoiding alcohol.