[Margerie]

I had MRM and axillary dissection a little over a year ago now. I did not have expanders at the time- I hear they aren't the most comfortable things in the world. Pain-wise I was ok, but watch out for burning arm the first few weeks. I got along with Tylenol and the occasional Darvocet.

Advice? Get as much organized as you can beforehand- meals, rides, household chores. Your wife will need help cleaning her drains and bathing/washing her hair for the first week or two. Button up pjs and slip on shoes. I loved my softee camisole (google it, it is a post-breast surgery cami) - or some other easy-on and off cami. To shower I had a big piece of ribbon I wore around my neck and pinned my drains onto. Make sure everything she may need is within reach. Somehow I overlooked all my vitamins were on the top shelf. I was advised not to raise my arm up over my head for a few weeks.

Anyway, looking back I would have had the surgeon write out the scripts for the pain meds and antibiotics before the surgery- so that was one less thing my poor hubby had to go get after. You sound like a loving man which will help with the emotional healing, which may be the difficult part. You feel real glamorous with one or two breasts missing, drains and having to shower with a collar on- ha! Maybe some good books/movies you can enjoy together.

I wish you both the best and a smooth recovery for your wife,

Margerie