Preparing for Surgery

[Tip788]

Hi,

I am new to this Breast Cancer Community website.

In September I am scheduled to have a Mastectomy along with removing the lymph nodes under my are (right breast/side)..

I wanted to know if any of you out there can give me some words of encouragement or inform me of anything I need to be prepared for.

One other thing, I just completed 12 weeks of chemo/ taxetere about a month ago.  Can anyone tell me when my eyes will stop watering and the numbness and tingling in my fingers and toes will stop?

Thanks for your help.

[japdip]

I see you've gotten some good suggestions regarding your upcoming surgery. I would like to suggest that you visit the following website ... there are several sections but start by clicking on the "Survivor" portion. You will find a wonderful bunch of women who have all "been there" and are more than willing to share experiences and give encouragement and anything else you need.

****.***

[lhughes]

Also, I used a shoe string to hang my drains on when I took a shower.  Make a necklace out of the shoe string and ping them to the necklace.  Just make sure that your string is long enough that the drains don't pull.

Good luck....mastectomy is fairly easy compared to getting through chemo!  I took Abraxane for taxol on my second round.  My tingling was gone within 3 months, but that's a slightly different drug.  Occassionally it returns (like getting sleep feelings pretty easy), but mostly all is back to normal.

PS... You'll want to keep the mastectomy side elevated for some time after surgery.

[dblwhammy]

Be sure you have all your questions answered by your surgeon doing the mastectomy. Jot them down and take a list with you.
After my bilateral mastectomies I did not experience much pain but the drains were a hassle. You'll be given directions about measuring the drainage daily and when it diminishes the drain will be removed. The drains will help prevent a pocket of fluid called a seroma from developing.
I found loose fitting front buttoning clothing and pajamas to be more comfortable which also made it easy to dress. Also helpful is a small pillow to support the affected side arm when sleeping. Do the exercises as advised to return full range of motion to your arm.
I had some numbness in my feet after my last Taxotere treatment. I was told that would take weeks to months to resolve, individual results vary. It has gradually after 5 months faded away. I remember the dry eyes; try OTC "tears" or get a recommendation from an eye doctor. My vision also changed, temporarily, so don't get new prescription lenses for a few months. Congratulations finishing chemo.
You'll do fine with recovery from the mastectomy. Chin up!