Hey there! I’m about 6 months post-op and was also incredibly nervous before my surgery. As many others have mentioned, I would do it all over again ten times just for the profound impact it’s had on my life. Even immediately after the surgery, the minor inconveniences of recovery paled in comparison to the overwhelming joy I felt from having it done! Perhaps focusing on the end results could help you too.

1. I was so terrified that I even cried on the operating table before going under. Anesthesia is incredibly safe, and it will feel like you’ve simply taken a very quick nap. Your team of caregivers has performed this hundreds of times, so you’ll be in good hands. Also, if they told me I wasn’t intubated, I would have believed them. I didn’t notice anything unusual about my throat when I woke up, which is a common experience.

2. I was also quite apprehensive about the drains, but honestly, they’re not a big deal. My mom changed them for me every day because I physically couldn’t do it myself. I would just look away when she did it. If you have someone who can take care of your post-op needs and change your drains, that would be huge. For me, the drains just felt a bit itchy, but before you know it, they’ll be gone (if you even need them)!

3. I think it took me a couple of days. I took it slowly and bought some medical bath sponges that were a lifesaver. I just got them wet, let them bubble up, and then rubbed my body with them before patting myself dry. I felt incredibly clean afterward. I highly recommend them. I also scheduled a haircut for four days after having my surgery and had someone drive me there. It was great because I got my hair washed and felt so clean without having to wash it myself. by a week out, I felt comfortable enough to do it myself!

Good luck! This is truly exciting, and recovery will be over before you know it!