I agree with the laxative and stool softener. I did not do that and ended up in the ER two days after my mastectomy due to bowel and urinary issues - no fun at all. The anesthetic and pain medicine and really stop you up.

You don't want to use too much laxatives as it can cause the gallbladder to act up. After surgery you should take the stool softeners because of the narcotics for pain.

Please, please, please be sure to take plenty of stool softeners or laxatives to cleanse out system BEFORE surgery. I wasn't told to do that and what stool was still in my intestines prior to surgery locked up on me and OMG constipation is worse than the surgical site pain.....

I stayed at a hotel the night before and then 24 hr in recovery. I took my phone, charger, kindle and charger (didn't use it), pajama pants that looked like they could be worn outside that I put on as soon as I was conscious and then wore home. My first surgery I woke up in a corset type bra that was quite comfortable, the second time I took a hook in the front bra that I wore home. Fresh undies, soft socks and slippers. The hospital did provide non-slip socks which I wore while there. I took cami tops that I could pull up instead of over, and a zip up light weight jacket. I brought my favorite pillow and a light lap blanket. I also brought lollipops, my favorite for calming my stomach and helping with dry mouth. It was nurse approved! It may sound like a lot, except for the pillow and blanket it fit in a small carry bag. I did bring personal care items, but the hospital was great with providing toothbrush, toothpaste, wash cloths, etc. I wish you the best with your surgery. Hugs!

My hospital experience was not exactly as yours will be, but I wish I'd had some magazines and a book that comforts me, because my surgery was delayed by five hours! Even my two buddies who were with me got bored. Also mouth spray! Sounds crazy, but when you haven't eaten for a long time and you're stuck in pre-op or recovery and have the worst taste in your mouth and can't brush, it pays to have something like that.AND if I were going into surgery today, I would take a stuffed animal. No lie! :-)