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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.

What was most helpful to bring to the hospital when staying overnight after a mastectomy?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Dryden, NY

I’m having a bilateral mastectomy and immediate reconstruction (fingers crossed) on Aug 18. Since both of my previous lumpectomies were outpatient procedures, I don’t really know what would be most helpful when I stay overnight.

August 16
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Be the first to react
A MyBCTeam Member

@A MyBCTeam Member thank you, those are good ideas and I appreciate your well wishes.

August 17
A MyBCTeam Member

All of the things listed above seem reasonable and helpful if you think they might be. I didn't have to stay overnight, but for the time I was there, my iphone and headphones to block out lots of noises was really helpful, as was a lot of deep breathing exercises before going back to surgery! I wasn't really nervous about the surgery itself, but more that losing my breasts was going to be a big adjustment! I'd also recommend starting a stool softener today & continuing that as you recover.

Best of luck tomorrow - I'll keep you in my thoughts!!

August 17
A MyBCTeam Member

Leave a pillow in the car, that you can use to place between you and the seatbelt.
Keeping you in prayers for every success with your procedure! Hugs!

August 17
MyBCTeam

First, fingers crossed indeed — wishing you all the best on August 18th! It's smart to think ahead. While the search results focus more on going-home prep, many of those same items are just as useful for your hospital stay.

Here's what MyBCTeam members and recovery experts suggest packing:

- Button-down or zip-up tops — Show Full Answer

First, fingers crossed indeed — wishing you all the best on August 18th! It's smart to think ahead. While the search results focus more on going-home prep, many of those same items are just as useful for your hospital stay.

Here's what MyBCTeam members and recovery experts suggest packing:

- Button-down or zip-up tops — you won't be able to raise your arms, so nothing goes over the head
- Stretchy-waisted pants or shorts — easy on and off with limited arm mobility
- Slip-on shoes — no bending or lacing needed
- A small pillow from home — great for hugging against your incision for comfort
- Dry shampoo — showering may not be possible right away
- Body wipes — a MyBCTeam member swore by organic body wipes before their first shower was cleared
- A drain management pouch or belt — you'll likely have surgical drains and need somewhere to hold the bulbs
- Phone charger and headphones — rest and distraction are both important! One thing a MyBCTeam member wished their doctor had mentioned sooner: be prepared for constipation after surgery, which is common with anesthesia and pain medications. Asking your care team about what's safe to take is a good idea before you go in.

Most importantly, check with your surgical team — they may have a specific packing checklist tailored to your procedure. You've got this! 💪

August 16

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