What You Should Know Before Mastectomy Surgery

by Kelly Hobbs March 17, 2025

Undergoing mastectomy surgery is a life-changing experience, and whether you are undergoing a preventive mastectomy or one due to breast cancer, it’s important to be as prepared and informed as possible. For many women, there are things they wish they had known before the surgery—both about the procedure itself and the recovery process that follows. By understanding what to expect, you can set yourself up for a smoother recovery and better overall experience.

In this post, we’ll dive into the key considerations and tips for preparing for breast cancer surgery, offering insight into things you should know before undergoing a mastectomy, and helping guide you through the physical and emotional journey ahead. Whether you are still in the early stages of diagnosis or getting ready for surgery, knowing what to expect can ease the unknown and make the recovery process more manageable.

Understand the Types of Mastectomy Surgery

Before surgery, one of the first things you’ll need to know is the type of mastectomy you’ll undergo. There are a few different types of mastectomy procedures:

Total (or simple) mastectomy: This involves the removal of the entire breast, including the nipple, areola, and breast tissue, but it typically doesn’t include removing the lymph nodes.
Modified radical mastectomy: This involves the removal of the entire breast as well as some or all of the lymph nodes under the arm.
Radical mastectomy: A more extensive procedure, a radical mastectomy involves the removal of the entire breast, chest muscles, and lymph nodes under the arm.
Skin-sparing mastectomy: This surgery preserves most of the breast skin and may allow for breast reconstruction later on.

You’ll need to discuss with your surgeon which type of mastectomy is best for you. Knowing this will help you better understand your recovery and what will happen during surgery.

Prepare for the Physical Changes

Mastectomy surgery brings many physical changes to your body. One of the first changes you will likely notice is the appearance of your chest, which may feel challenging to adjust to at first. Understanding that these changes are part of the healing process can help you better prepare for the emotional adjustments that come along with it.

Many women opt for breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, which can be done simultaneously with the mastectomy surgery or as a separate procedure. Reconstruction options include implant-based surgery or using your own tissue to form a new breast. Talk with your doctor about your reconstruction options before your surgery to make sure you understand the process and what it entails.

Some women may choose not to undergo breast reconstruction, and that’s a personal choice. Regardless of your decision, you should be prepared for the physical changes and understand how they may affect you emotionally.

Consider the Emotional Impact

The emotional toll of mastectomy surgery can be just as significant as the physical recovery. It’s natural to feel a sense of loss, sadness, or anxiety as you prepare for surgery and begin the healing process. These emotions are normal, and seeking support through counseling, support groups, or even online communities can be incredibly helpful during your journey.

It is key to understand that there are many ways to regain your confidence and sense of self after a mastectomy. You may want to explore options like prostheses or mastectomy garments to help you feel more comfortable and restored after surgery. Garments with features like drain pockets can be useful and discreet ways to manage your recovery, and mastectomy bras can help you feel more supported during healing.

At Kelly Bee Designs, we offer a variety of garments designed to make your recovery more manageable, including our mastectomy collection. Our pieces are specifically crafted with your comfort in mind, offering functional designs with pockets for surgical drains so you can focus on healing without feeling self-conscious.

Plan for Your Recovery Time

Recovery from a mastectomy is a gradual process that requires patience, self-care, and a strong support system. Your healing timeline will depend on factors such as the type of mastectomy you had, whether lymph nodes were removed, and whether you underwent immediate reconstruction. Most people take several weeks to a few months to fully recover. Still, listening to your body and following your doctor’s recommendations are essential to ensure a smooth healing process.

Here are a few things to keep in mind during your recovery:

Prioritizing Rest and Listening to Your Body: Your body needs time to heal after surgery, so getting adequate rest is crucial. In the first few weeks, avoid activities that require heavy lifting, stretching, or repetitive arm movements, as these can strain the healing area. You may feel more fatigued than usual, which is a normal response to both the surgery and the emotional impact of recovery.
Pain management: You may experience some pain and discomfort after surgery. Your doctor will likely prescribe pain medications to help manage this, but following your doctor's advice on pain relief is essential. Some advice includes using cold compresses to help reduce swelling and discomfort, avoiding sudden movements or lifting your arms above your head in the first few weeks, and doing gentle massages to help relieve tightness and improve circulation.
Drain management: Many people wake up from surgery with surgical drains near the incision site. These help remove excess fluid and reduce swelling, preventing complications like seromas (fluid buildup). Depending on how much fluid they collect, the drains typically remain in place for 1–2 weeks. It’s essential to follow your doctor’s instructions on how to care for them. This typically involves emptying the drains regularly and monitoring for signs of infection.
Physical activity: After surgery, you may notice stiffness in your chest, shoulders, and arms, especially if lymph nodes were removed. After your surgeon gives you the green light, gentle exercises and stretches can help you recover and restore your arms and chest mobility.

Consider support garments, such as a post-surgical recovery bra or compression garments, which can help reduce swelling and provide comfort as your body heals.

What to Pack for the Hospital

Packing a hospital bag is essential to your preparation before your surgery. Make sure you have everything you’ll need during your stay, including:

Loose, comfortable clothing like front closure shirts or zippered tops make dressing easier.
Post-surgery garments with drain pockets to help manage any drains placed during the surgery.
Personal items like toiletries, lip balm, and snacks.
A soft, supportive pillow to place under your arm for comfort when resting.

Having everything ready and packed ahead of time will make the process feel smoother and allow you to focus on your recovery rather than scrambling for items after the surgery.

Get Support from Loved Ones

It is vital to surround yourself with supportive friends and family members. They can help with everyday tasks like meal preparation, transportation, and emotional support during recovery. Let your loved ones know how they can assist you.

Additionally, many women find comfort in connecting with others who have gone through the same experience. Joining support groups or online communities can provide a sense of camaraderie and help you feel less isolated during your recovery.

Make Your Home Recovery-Friendly

When you return home from surgery, having a well-prepared space can significantly improve your comfort and overall recovery. Since mobility will be limited in the first few weeks, setting up an environment that minimizes strain and allows easy access to essentials will help reduce stress and promote healing. Here are some tips for preparing your home:

Set up a comfortable resting area with plenty of pillows and easy access to everything you need.
Arrange meals and snacks where you can easily access them without stretching or reaching too much.
Keep a journal or notes about your recovery process to track your progress and record any changes or concerns.
To make daily activities easier, wear post-mastectomy-friendly clothing, such as front-closure tops and shirts with drain pockets, and place a chair in the shower to reduce strain during bathing.

Preparing for Your Mastectomy Journey

Preparation is key in mastectomy surgery, and being as informed as possible will help you navigate the process with greater confidence. From understanding the types of surgery to managing emotional and physical recovery, knowing what to expect can make the healing process smoother.

Whether you are looking for mastectomy garments or seeking recovery guidance, remember that you don’t have to do this alone. Kelly Bee Design’s mastectomy collection offers comfortable and supportive garments to help you feel your best during your recovery.

Take your time and be gentle with yourself. Lean on those who support you throughout this journey. If you’re ready to find your ideal post-surgical garments, we invite you to explore our collection today and take the first step toward a comfortable recovery.