Mastectomy Tubes, Drains, Annoying Appendages

Coming out of the hospital after a mastectomy means dealing with drains dangling from your body. Here's a hint on dealing.

Category:

People & Blogs

Tags:

• breastcancer
• susanreynolds
• advice
• mastectomy
• health

[joan15136]

@cutykity please stay in touch. all of us are praying for you. your courage is inspiring.

[heidizign]

I found it easy to wear the suction bulb in my jeans pocket. Yes, shampooing was challenging because I couldn't raise my arm, so washed with one hand. It's all do-able.

[cutykity]

Thank you Susan for sharing your experience. A few days ago I had a Mastectomy at the age of 34. Today, I found out I have triple negative breast cancer. I will do chemo starting next week. Everything is moving so fast, it's overwhelming. I wish all the best to my fellow breast cancer survivors. May God bless us all!

[vibraharp226]

Thank you so, so much. I am scheduled for a mastectomy tomorrow. Because I've watched your videos I feel somewhat prepared. I so appreciate your generosity in sharing your experiences. Good health to you!

[carolmarierentas]

Susan you are just like having my Mother here ...she pasted from Breastcancer overten years ago I really appreciate your posts just like having my Mother back :0)

[katrinktoes]

Thank you for sharing your experiences. I agree about the cami. I have one that velcroes open in the front, with pockets inside for the bulbs. But even just the waist strap with velcro pockets is very helpful (I have that too). I think hospitals should provide something like this! Cost me $20, but wouldnt cost them that much and should be billable to insurance as necessary. It doesnt seem optional to me!

[begoneagain]

I really appreciate this video. If you want to splurge, also, there are some great post-op camisoles out there. After searching online, I bought a soft cotton, velcro closing one with inside pockets for the drains and for breast form(s). Very comfortable and loose shirts or hoodies fit well over it.

[datwins114]

Wow this is great info. I had a double Mastecomy on 2/16 and came home with 2 drains hanging. I was told to drain at 8 am, 2pm & 8 pm and keep a log of the total CC's. They will take the drains out once you read a total of 30 cc's or under. So now I had one drain removed because it was under 30 cc's and I still have one draining. What I do is tie a sting around my waist line and have the drain hang from there.

[monib19592]

Thank you sooo much for this !! I am waiting for my double Mastectomy surgery date and trying to find as many inside tips as i can. Bless you!

[TSmieja]

Great video! Thank you so much for sharing! My PBM is coming up soon - thanks for sharing video about the drains - very helpful!