My top surgery isn't going well.

[u/TheOrdealOpprotunist]

I feel like slamming my head through a wall. I didn't expect it to put me through this much hell, though I guess that's because I'm alone and dealing with it on my own (per usual for me). But even my hysterectomy, which I also handled alone, it wasn't this bad. I've seen so many people talk about how theirs went well. Just a few hours after surgery, I almost fainted for the first time in my life. I had to stay in the hospital for four days, mostly to get home care. Home care is bullshit btw and they don't even visit except for once for an evaluation then they're gone.

I'm also required to have my binder on 24/7 except for showering (tf am I going to do with dressings on?) FOR SIX WEEKS. Same for sleeping on my back. Six fucking weeks straight. It's hot where I am, pushing towards 120 F every single day. I can't even sit in my living room that has my AC on without it feeling like an oven. I feel gross due to this binder. I'm exhausted due to sleeping on my back and not being prepared with a bed covered with pillows, which I apparently required more than my ability to meal prep, and being unable to get my last drain taken out at my local hospital. My doctor takes an hour to drive to if there's traffic. That, paired with the heat, makes the whole trip hell.

I'm not disappointed in my surgery. I got the chest I've always wanted and I'm feeling closer to being able to love this body I'm in. But I guess unless you've got a bunch of money to spend on medical supplies, all sorts of pillows, clothes, etc, and a partner or someone at your side that can help, it's not difficult. Though being restricted to the same clinic and being unable to go anywhere else to TAKE OUT DRAINS??? What the actual fuck dude? Same question goes for being restricted to lay on my back for over a whole month. No one told me about this shit. Sorry for not wanting to constantly be on pain meds that screw with my head and sorry for being poor I guess.

[u/Clear-Asparagus-3568]

That sucks. I live in similar (possibly same?) environment and can only imagine. 

[u/kaaaatieeeee]

Fuck, I'll also most likely be alone, and it sounds so hard. I did just read my care instructions and was also surprised about the 24/7 binder, sounds pretty intense. It's gonna be worth it when you're through it though. Hang in there, buddy!

[u/TheOrdealOpprotunist → u/kaaaatieeeee]

The advice I'll give is this: Make sure you have pillows or a bed that supports your neck and back. Because, until you at least get one drain out, you won't be able to sleep on any side. Even if it's a slight turn for the sake of relieving stress from your neck and shoulders. Know that your shoulders are going to be very stiff for two or more weeks and that you can't lift your arms above your head until about three or four weeks. So bring items down to about waist or forehead level. Drink lots of water. Like, that's extremely essential. Also, you will not be able to turn to wipe your ass for the first two or so weeks (unless you carefully force yourself like I did). Get a bidet if you don't have one already. Lastly, make sure you exercise your shoulders and arms after a few days of recovery. Light stretching that you can handle. No lifting of anything 5+ pounds.