Many people, like our founder, go into surgery without fully understanding what to expect. That can make the recovery process even harder. For example, it’s common to leave the hospital with multiple surgical drains designed to collect excess fluid. These drains typically stay in for two weeks and require careful management, such as draining them several times a day.

Without the right preparation, managing surgical drains can be frustrating and even painful. Before starting Kelly Bee Recovery, our founder faced challenges like pinning drains to the inside of a shirt to keep it from swinging around. This method wasn’t just inconvenient and made the recovery process more stressful. Unfortunately, resources and information about preparing for a mastectomy were scarce at the time.

That experience inspired us to create practical, affordable, and supportive solutions for others recovering from mastectomy. We aim to bring both comfort and confidence during this challenging time. Let’s learn about what you need to be prepared for mastectomy recovery.

What You Need to Be Prepared for Mastectomy Recovery

Mastectomy recovery can feel overwhelming, especially when you're unsure about what to expect or how to prepare. The right clothing, comfort, and personal care products can make all the difference. With a little preparation, you can manage your recovery more easily and focus on healing.

Below, we share tips and recommendations to support your recovery journey without overspending. We look at specialized clothing like our post-mastectomy hoodies and curated recovery kits. These items are budget-friendly since you'll only need them for a short time, making it unnecessary to spend more than required.

Zip or Button Front Tops

After your surgery, lifting your arms will be difficult. This makes button-down or zip-up shirts necessary. Bonus points if they include pockets for drains! While there are many options for mastectomy clothing and surgical recovery garments, most are expensive and have a clinical appearance.

This inspired us to present our post-mastectomy zip-up hoodie, which has become a bestseller. It looks like a regular hoodie and allows you to leave the house feeling normal. Plus, it’s versatile enough to wear after recovery and features adorable fabric for the pockets with customization options. 

Hook or Zip Front Bras

Your doctor may provide a surgical bra when you leave the hospital. However, having at least one additional bra is important. Look for something that zips or buttons in the front for convenience. Here’s an affordable option that also works as a sports bra after surgery: Women’s Zip Front Post Surgery Bra 

Pillows  

Sleeping will be uncomfortable for a while. You’ll need to sleep at an incline to relieve pressure and accommodate the drains. You can stack several pillows or use a wedge pillow for added support and comfort.

SewlyOne creates heart-shaped mastectomy pillows to provide comfort and support after surgery. You can place them under your arms to prevent rubbing on tender areas. 

Each pillow includes an adjustable ribbon strap to keep it secure and a pocket for a small ice or heat pack near the surgical site. They come in various beautiful fabrics. This makes them a functional and stylish gift for anyone recovering from a mastectomy.

Personal Care Products

You might not be able to shower for a while. Even if you can, lifting your arms to wash your hair or reach areas comfortably may not be possible. That’s why having the right products is key for staying fresh and feeling your best.                    

                         

  

No-Rinse Cleansers

Try a no-rinse cleansing foam like Medline Remedy Phytoplex Hydrating No-Rinse Cleansing Foam to keep your skin clean and refreshed without needing water. Simply apply, lather, and wipe off for a quick and hassle-free cleansing.

Consider No-Rinse Microwaveable Cleansing Wipes for a more spa-like experience. These pre-moistened wipes can be warmed in the microwave for a comforting and convenient bathing option.

Managing Surgical Drains in the Shower

If your doctor gives you the green light to shower with your drains still in, it is key to have the right tool to manage them. Our Shower Lanyard is a simple but effective solution. This lightweight lanyard holds your drain tubes securely. It allows you to keep your hands free while showering. 

You can even position the drains behind your back to minimize water exposure. As a bonus, we offer a free shower lanyard with the purchase of any two mastectomy garments. We make it easy to stay prepared and comfortable during recovery.

Surgical Drain Care

Having the right supplies on hand can make all the difference in promoting comfort and reducing the risk of complications. Here are some must-have items we recommend for surgical drain care and site maintenance:

Must-Have Drain Care Essentials

●       Alcohol Wipes: Perfect for sanitizing the area around your drains.

●       Hand Sanitizer: An easy way to maintain hygiene when handling your drains.

●       Gauze Pads and Medical Tape: These are important for dressing your surgical site and maintaining proper coverage.

If you’re looking for a convenient, all-in-one option, the First Aid Only First Aid Kit contains everything you need. It’s a smart addition to your recovery essentials.

Kelly Bee Surgical Drain Care Kit

Our Kelly Bee Surgical Drain Care Kit comes packaged in our stylish "Fight" cosmetic bag. It is designed to make your recovery more manageable. This kit includes some key drain care supplies to get you started and comes in a reusable cosmetic bag that you can enjoy long after recovery. It’s also a thoughtful gift for a loved one going through breast cancer recovery.

Supporting Your Recovery with Kelly Bee Recovery

Preparing for mastectomy recovery is about creating a sense of comfort and confidence during a difficult time. At Kelly Bee Recovery, we’ve created products designed with your needs in mind. From our lightweight recovery hoodies with drain pockets to curated surgical care kits, we’re here to make your recovery easier.

Our mission is to help you or your loved one feel supported every step of the way. For additional guidance or to explore our collection, visit our website or contact us at Info@KellyBeeRecovery.com. Together, we’ll help make recovery a little smoother, one thoughtful product at a time.