Recovering from surgery can feel overwhelming at first, but having the right supplies and routine makes a huge difference. I’m breaking it down step by step so you can feel confident and prepared.
I had double incision top surgery on March 3, 2020 with Dr. Charles Garramone. This information is from my own personal experience always follow your doctors instructions.
Watch the companion video here!
What the Doctor Will Give You
Right after surgery, your doctor will provide some essential items to get you started. Here’s what Dr. Garramone gave me:
- Zeroform pads: These cloth squares are cut to size and placed over your nipples as part of the bandaging process.
- Scissors and tweezers: Both are for cutting the zeroform to fit comfortably.
- Ace bandage: This is wrapped around your chest right after surgery and will be worn for several weeks.
These items are a good foundation, but there are a few things I personally found helpful to add to my post-surgery kit.
Must-Have Supplies I Bought Myself
Beyond what the doctor provides, here are the supplies that made my recovery smoother:
- Hibiclens: This antiseptic wash is used before surgery, but I continued using it post-surgery to keep my chest clean.
- Gauze pads: I used Band-Aid brand 4-inch pads, cutting them into strips to cover my nipples.
- Tape: Finding the right tape was a journey—I tried three different kinds before finding one that mostly stuck.
- Neosporin: Essential for keeping incision sites protected and promoting healing. I went through almost an entire tube.
- Bio Oil: Used gently on scars, it keeps the skin hydrated and may improve the appearance of scarring over time.
- CicaTape: These help hold everything in place and keep the chest flat, which I found incredibly helpful.
- Wet wipes: During the first week, showers aren’t allowed, so wipes are a lifesaver for staying fresh.
- Pain relief: Your doctor will give prescription painkillers. Tylenol is useful for weaning off stronger medication, ibuprofen isn’t allowed.
Tips That Made My Recovery Easier
One thing I learned quickly is that post-surgery care isn’t just about having supplies—it’s about creating a routine that works for you. For example:
- Cutting gauze into smaller strips means you’re not using more than necessary.
- Layering Bio Oil and Steri-Strips helps reduce itchiness and keeps the chest feeling smooth.
- Keeping a small kit of wipes and tape nearby makes those first days much less stressful.
Why Preparing for Top Surgery Matters
Recovering from top surgery is a unique experience for everyone, but having the right tools can make a huge difference in comfort and healing. I hope my personal list of supplies and tips helps you feel more prepared for your journey.
Remember, your recovery is your own—listen to your body, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to experiment a little with what works best for you.
Final Thoughts on Top Surgery Recovery
If you’re about to undergo top surgery, take it one day at a time. Having the right supplies, like gauze, tape, and soothing oils, makes your life so much easier. Post-surgery care is an adjustment, but with a little preparation, it becomes manageable—and you’ll be amazed at your body’s resilience.
If you have questions or want more details, feel free to reach out—I love connecting and sharing experiences. Here’s to a smooth recovery!
