If you follow me on Instagram then you likely know that I recently had a breast reduction and lift. This surgery has been something I’ve considered doing for years, and I am endlessly grateful that I had the opportunity to finally get it done.
To put it simply, this surgery was life changing.
I was dealing with chronic back and neck pain and felt like this part of my body was quite literally weighing on my day to day life. I couldn’t fit into tops, swimsuits, or dresses comfortably. I felt constantly aware of my breast size. I loathed the feeling of not being able to stand up straight — the list goes on.
I used to refer to my boobs as flap jacks, but now I call the new and improved ladies my “nip-naps.” Some good old fashioned humor was a necessary part of this process.
I’ll always be in awe of what my body has done (my boobs kept my two kids alive in their newborn days) but boy am I happy to have this surgery behind me.
With that being said, I have learned so much throughout this process of prepping for, undergoing, and healing from a procedure. I worked really hard to get my health in tip-top shape beforehand, and that really paid off when it came to recovery.
Regardless of what type of surgery you’re having (or if you love someone who is preparing for one) I wanted to share my list of post-op essentials. These are items that I personally used and loved after my breast reduction. I also think many of these would make thoughtful gifts for anyone who is sick or healing!
Post-Surgery Essentials
The Coziest Pajama Set
skims Lounge Rib Sleep Set
Not to be dramatic but these are the softest and most luxurious pajamas I have ever put on. I pretty much lived in these the first several days after my procedure and they were ideal because they’re roomy and don’t cling to your body.
p.s. If you’re also getting a breast reduction surgery, having a top with buttons is crucial because it can be a challenge to move your arms.
The Perfect Lap Desk
Home Office Lap Desk
Most surgeries require a decent amount of down-time spent on the couch or in bed. I found that having a lap desk to work on offered a little dose of normalcy — and honestly, it’s nice to have one of these on hand!
Comfrey Root For Recovery
Starwest Botanicals Organic Comfrey Root
Don’t skip past this! This ointment is a holy grail item that can work wonders on bruising and swelling. Mark’s mom has been using this since he was a kid and I have been shocked by how much it helped with my recovery.
Consult your doctor beforehand, but I used a mix of this and some water to create a paste. I applied it to my skin and used an Ace bandage to wrap up the area I put it on (near my underarms.) I left it on overnight and my bruising and swelling was significantly better in the morning.
With that being said, it is very messy and will stain your sheets and pajamas, so use it at your own risk.
Organic Pain Relief Ointment
Dr. Christopher’s Comfrey Ointment
If you want all the benefits of the comfrey root that I mentioned above, but don’t want to deal with the mess, this ointment is another option.
Red Light Therapy
Lumebox
I’m a big believer in red light therapy and swear by this gadget! It offers support on the scarring and inflammation front. I’ve been using it each morning and evening and it truly feels like a hug from the sun.
It’s definitely an investment but one of my followers mentioned that you can use your FSA account funds! It’s honestly a great tool to have on hand for everyday accidents and illnesses as well.
Post-Surgery Bra Set
Women’s Zip Front Sports Bra
It might not seem obvious but wearing a bra after a breast reduction surgery is a must. Having the lift and light pressure from a sports bra feels far more comfortable than leaving the ladies hanging on their own.
These sports bras have a zipper in the front so you can easily get in and out of them! They would be great for any nursing mamas out there.
Comfy Bralette
Calvin Klein Women’s Modern Cotton Unlined Wireless Bralette
This is the bra that I went home in and I do love that it’s made with less fabric. However, this one is a bit harder to get on and off since there’s not a zipper (and it can be difficult to lift your arms after a breast reduction surgery.)
Post-Op Mastectomy Pillow
Zomaple Mastectomy Pillow
This pillow can be wrapped around your body while you’re riding in a car or if you want to feel some light yet comforting pressure. It’s definitely not something I would have thought to get but I’m so glad I had it!
Cozy Blanket
Barefoot dreams ribbed blanket
Cozy blankets are always a must — especially when you’re feeling under the weather or when you’re spending lots of time at home.
Best Hydrating Lip Tint
Rhode Peptide Lip Tint
This is totally random but I bought this lip product right before my operation and found it to be such a little luxury as I recovered. Putting it on made me feel a little more “alive” and it felt like a special treat.
Homeopathic Medicine for Concentration
Boiron Phosphoricum Acidum
This homeopathic medication helps with any bruising you might have post-op. I took it for three weeks prior and then continued to take it after the fact.
A Good Book
The Let Them Theory By Mel Robbins
A good book to keep you some company as you rest up. I have been loving all things Mel Robbins lately and think this is such a motivational and inspiring read.
Comfortable Heating Pad
Bed Buddy Neck Heating Pad
Once I moved on from icing the first three days, my doctor wanted me to switch to heat. I swear by these heating pads and love that you can just warm them up in the microwave.
Flexible and Reusable Ice Packs
FlexiKold Ice Packs for Injuries Reusable with Straps
Speaking of icing, these ice packs are easy to wrap around your body (and they’ll actually stay put!)
Cozy Slippers
UGG Women’s Tasman Slippers
After a surgery, it’s imperative that you’re steady on your feet and that you can move around comfortably and safely. If you undergo any type of anesthesia then you’ll want to have slippers that have backs on them (so you don’t slip out!) These have been my go-to.
