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Real members of MyBCTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Hello. I’m preparing to get a double mastectomy next month. What should I buy to prepare for recovering from the surgery?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Raritan, NJ
March 15
 · 
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A MyBCTeam Member

I got several button up shirts to wear and sweatpants. Later when I could take a shower I found that a lanyard to hook the drain tubes to with a safety pin worked the best for me. Definitely pillows- I had a U shaped pillow for under my arm and later a soft small pillow. I still use that soft small pillow under my arm months later.
Having an electric recliner to sleep in for a couple of weeks really helped. I borrowed one from a friend or they can be rented from a medical supply company.
Praying for a successful surgery. Hugs.

March 18
A MyBCTeam Member

Jackie, check with your nurse navigator. Our center provided me with two mesh aprons with pockets, they tied around the waist and the drain bulbs went in the pockets. I kept one for showers (they dry fast) and the other for wearing under clothes. They also provided (sewn by volunteers) a U-shaped pillow to go under the arm- it helps to reduce the pressure/friction from your arm against the incision site.
I slept upright in the recliner with pillow stuffed on either side of me (I am a serious side sleeper). But a U-shaped neck pillow, placed under the arm, or even a small folded towel can achieve the same result.

I had plenty of clothes that worked, I either wore my PJ bottoms with the button up tops, or sweatpants and a zip up hoodie. Keeping you in prayers! Hugs!

March 15
MyBCTeam

What items should you buy to prepare for recovering from a double mastectomy?

Preparing ahead can make your recovery much more comfortable. Here are essential items to consider:

Pillows for comfort
- Wedge pillow for sleeping elevated
- Small pillow to hug against your incision
- Neck pillow for support
- Mastectomy Show Full Answer

What items should you buy to prepare for recovering from a double mastectomy?

Preparing ahead can make your recovery much more comfortable. Here are essential items to consider:

Pillows for comfort:
- Wedge pillow for sleeping elevated
- Small pillow to hug against your incision
- Neck pillow for support
- Mastectomy pillow to prop your arm away from your body

Clothing that's easy to manage:
- Button-up or zip-up shirts (loose-fitting and soft)
- Stretchy-waisted pants or yoga pants
- Post-mastectomy camisole with drain pockets
- Jacket or cardigan with inside pockets to hold surgical drains

Personal care items:
- Dry shampoo (you may have difficulty washing your hair initially)
- Constipation relief like MiraLax (pain medication can cause this)

Practical supplies:
- Multiple drain holders (one for shower, one to keep dry)
- Comfortable bras that support without squeezing

A MyBCTeam member shared: "I found a small pillow that has been everything to me since my mastectomy. It's just the right size and softness to hug against my incision."

Before surgery, talk with your surgeon about what else you might need and when you can expect to shower and resume normal activities. They're your best resource for personalized preparation advice.

March 15

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