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I had bilateral mastectomy Sept. 6, 2005. The surgery took longer than expected (5 hours) . I had a lot of trouble with not being able to empty my bladder postop.
Stayed in the hospital overnight (which I really hate). Was on a morphine pump for several hours postop until I developed a throbbing headache from the drug. I had the JP drains for about a week afterward and they were removed along with the surgical clips.
The worst part for me was not being able to get comfortable for sleep. Every time I tried to get on my side it hurt and my arm went numb. It took about a month for this to subside.
I started using my arms as much as I could per doctors orders afterwards. I did a couple of physical therapy visits to get the exercises down pat. I still can't get my arms totally straight and extended above my head, but am working on it.
I have a very natural looking prosthesis, but don't wear it around the house or working in the yard. I'm looking into reconstruction, but am quite torn about going through two 3 hour operations that I really don't have to have.
Our thoughts will be with you and please let us know how you fare after surgery. We're here for you.
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