​Going through a lumpectomy, mastectomy and/or reconstruction can feel overwhelming physically, mentally, and emotionally. But I’m here to offer perspective and hope that it doesn’t have to be as daunting as it seems. Everyone processes the significance of cancer treatment and body-altering surgery differently, and I would never minimize that. What I do want to do is share some of the tools and resources I researched, discovered, and intuitively used to help with my own successful surgery and recovery.

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Here are a few things I recommend getting ahead of time to make your recovery smoother and more comfortable:

 

Mastectomy Recovery 

This is something I was originally told not to worry about because a bra would be provided after surgery. And while that was true, I woke up in one that was not exactly the most comfortable option. If you’re someone who values comfort (hi, me!), it’s worth looking into alternatives.

Work with your surgeon to ensure that whatever bra you choose meets post-surgical requirements, but know that you do have options. The key features to look for: front closure (zippers or clips), soft/stretchy fabric, and no underwire.

A fantastic resource for recovery bras is AnaOno — bonus: some insurance plans will cover these with a doctor’s note (though I did have to go back and forth with my provider before getting three covered).

A couple of Amazon finds that worked well for me:

• Anyta Lynn Mastectomy Bra (I removed the padding during healing)

• Fruit of the Loom Front Close Sports Bra (I sized up two band sizes for extra comfort)

Trust me, having a soft, stretchy, and easy-to-wear bra makes a world of difference when you’re recovering!

 

Drain Management

If you’re having a mastectomy, you’ll most likely have drains in place for a couple of weeks post-surgery — and while they serve an important purpose, they can definitely be a thing to manage. Being prepared will make life much easier.

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A few simple, budget-friendly solutions:
Neck lanyard & large safety pins — Use these to secure your drains so they don’t get in the way while moving around. Be sure to loop over/around the drains never pierce or pinch them!
Recovery robe with drain pockets — These are specifically designed for post-mastectomy drain management.
Zip-up jackets or shirts with interior pockets — This was my go-to! I found a couple of zip-ups and flipped the pockets inside-out to hold the drain "grenades" (you’ll see what I mean when you have them).

 

Pre-Surgery Yoga & Post-Surgery Movement

This was my own personal idea, but it just made sense to me! The morning of my surgery, I woke up extra early and did one of my usual 30-minute yoga routines. Not only did it calm my nerves, but I also believe it helped stretch my body and prepare me for surgery. Just like we stretch before exercise to prevent injury and aid recovery, I feel like this gentle movement helped set my body up for healing.

 

Post-Surgery Exercises

Movement after surgery is key for mobilization and healing, but the right exercises will vary based on your stage of recovery. Be sure to ask your doctor for approved exercises at each phase, as recommendations can change week by week.

 

A small but helpful tool I used: stress/grip balls — I started with simple finger and grip exercises during the first few weeks of recovery to help with circulation and mobility.

 

Again, I can’t stress this enough: Always check with your doctor before starting any exercises — every case is unique, and physician recommendations can vary. (I am not a doctor, I just play one on my own health journey!)

 

Healing Nutrition: Prep Before Surgery

Nutritionally, one of the best things you can do before surgery is prepare some nourishing meals ahead of time. I highly recommend making a healing soup or other easy-to-digest meal for the week leading up to surgery so you have something easy and nutrient-dense on hand when you get home.

If cooking isn’t an option, at the very least, have bone broth ready — my favorite brand is Fond. It’s packed with collagen, minerals, and gut-healing properties, all of which are great for post-surgical healing. Owl Venice has a good vegan option, if preferred.

 

While a lumpectomy, mastectomy and reconstruction are significant, I hope these tips help make the experience feel a little more manageable (and dare I say, less scary). Small preparations can go a long way in making recovery smoother, and above all — be gentle with yourself. You've got this! 

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Disclaimer:

Every person’s cancer journey is unique, and treatment plans should always be personalized. The information shared in this post is based on my own experience and is intended for informational and supportive purposes only. Please consult your physician or medical team before making any changes to your treatment, supplements, or self-care routine.