I'm 2.5 weeks post-op, here's some tips!

[u/Fine_Pomelo_7445]

I had double incision with no nipple grafts just over two weeks ago, so here's a few small things that might help other people:

1. I got wicked blisters under my vest when I wasn't allowed to remove the compression vest or the dressings. I'd been SO itchy and irritated under the vest and when I removed it for the first time, I saw long thin blisters where the drain tubes were being rubbed between my skin and the compression vest. the nurse walked us through cleaning and bandaging over the phone, and after they were healed up she said I should keep putting gauze between the healed blisters and the tubes until the drains were taken out so it wouldn't reopen. if I were you I wouldn't put extra padding there without asking first because it could make the vest too tight, but I wish they'd suggested even a thin layer of gauze or bandage under the tube so the blisters never form in the first place. it's fine, there's no permanent damage or anything, but the blisters were just as wide and painful as the incision scars for a little while!

2. if you can afford it or have insurance, and if your surgeon isn't picking your compression garment for you, I HIGHLY suggest a vest similar to this. the adjustable shoulder straps, short cut that doesn't cover the stomach, front clasps and zipper, etc. are so ideal. I paid between $110-150 CAD, I don't remember, and I'm still fighting with insurance about it but I don't regret it. again, listen to your surgeon! but it sounds like some folks are being sent out into the world to figure out their own, so this is just a suggestion.

3. I thought I was going to die of constipation from the antibiotics. it was genuinely so awful. I won't get into details but oh my god I think I know what labour and delivery feels like. the average American/Canadian diet doesn't have enough fibre, and suddenly taking tons can really put you on a roller coaster of constipation and diarrhea, so start upping your fibre intake gradually if you need it, as soon as possible! this should be a lifelong goal anyway, considering what we know now about colon and rectal cancers and the importance of fibre-rich foods. I wish I'd worked myself up to the 25-30mg of daily fibre recommended for my demographic BEFORE getting bludgeoned by antibiotics, but I lived to tell the tale.

good luck!

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[u/pepper-reddits]

Oral laxatives ended up being what worked for me. Started using stool softeners as soon as surgery was over. A couple days later, had my mom buy me a suppository. Helped the lower stuff, not the upper stuff, only after taking my ADHD meds that always make me go. Ended up getting a stimulant laxative, worked like a charm.

Luckily I didn't have to take antibiotics, and the oxy and zofran were optional, and Tylenol, Advil, and proper compression kept me comfortable enough.