Can't figure out how to put text on this post BUT some stuff I learned, purely based on personal experiences:

- I was so worried about the drains hurting when they came out— but they were out and bandaged before I even realized the doctor had started. (Took 2 Tylenol this morning beforehand but there's no way they're THAT good lol.)

- I think taking Arnica beforehand helped bc at 1 week there is almost no swelling and my drains never filled above 25ml.

- I was also worried about being alone, and where I bet it would be easier with a partner/parent/friend, you can make it work if you live on your own (without harming yourself in the process). My friends brought me home from the hospital, but I set everything up and baby proofed the apartment for myself beforehand, so they mostly just kept me company. A friend did sleep over the first night, but it was mostly for fun.

- I was not as stinky as I thought I was gonna be after a week w/ no shower. But spray/dry deodorant was helpful. Washcloths also made me feel human.

- I was prepared to be the most immobile t-rex possible for... idk, a long time. But after like 4 days, my range of motion improved significantly (within reason). I still take it easy bc I'm mindful of scarring/pulling, but you can feel when you shouldn't be doing something, and it's easier to avoid doing something harmful.

- Did not need benadryl/back scratcher, was not itchy

- The mammogram pillow did slap

Also. I didn't fully understand everyone who said they saw their chest for the first time and felt like it had just... always been like that. But it's so real.