I agree with the not waiting to take pain meds. I started my PT after my drains were removed except I was told I would get my full range of motion back I think it had something to do with how many nodes they removed. Well im not a person who accepts things like that and I did get full range back it was painful and it took a while but I got it back. I work in the medical field and I just couldn't see me doing my job without it so I pushed myself til I got it back. I have been cancer free for 21 years I do have to say today im almost 50 and I have a lot of arthritis in the joints and I always have had swelling bad circulation and I cant lay on that side when I sleep.

These best advice that I can give you is to rest when you are tired, and make sure you do your exercises three times a day like they ask. The exercises hurt, but they are what helps you get full mobility back. You will be amazed at how tight your muscles are after the surgery. Also, make sure that you have button up shirts or VERY oversized t-shirts. It is so hard to get dressed in one of your regular shirts. It just doesn't happen. I got some really comfy button up pjs that were a couple sizes too big. This was amazing because you have to be able to get to your drain tubes. The drain tubes suck. I hated "Squeaking" the tubes, but they will be gone soon! If you have any other questions, please let me know. I just had my double mastectomy and nodes removed in March. Stay Strong, and Stay Positive! You've got this! :)

Have a back scratcher on hand for the itching after surgery, hard candies for dry mouth, crushed ice and lots of fluids, have someone handy to help you get up and down from chair/couch/bed...I didn't have anyone to help me out of bed, so I tied a rope at the foot of the bed to assist with raising up so I could get out of bed. Just between you and me, some "pads" are good to have for urinary incontinence because you may not be able to get up and move fast enough!

I had this cami that the hospital shop sold. Had little velcro pouches for the drains and also foam prosthetic inserts if you wanted them.It was cotton, loose and comfortable. I wore it for quite a while after even after the drains were out! Ditto everything above and definitely do those exercises - you'll be back to norma before you know it:)

you should not be lifting anything over 5 lbs in the beginning and nothing over 10 lbs forever in affected arm if u had lymph nodes removed . lifting heavy things can cause lymphedema and udont want that. once u have it , u never get rid of it. sleeve not necessary if no edema, but do wear one if you fly. insurance will pay for it.