I had a double and skipped the reconstruction. I was not going through all that just to have breasts again. I'm edhing towards retirement, did breast cancer twice, just not enduring more pain for that dumb disease. Anyway, for your question, dont worry about the hospital. You most likely wont be in that long. My surgery was first thing in the morning. By evening, i was waking in my room. I was walking the halls in a couple more hours. I went home the next morning. Pretty common. Big thing, plan for what you CAN'T DO WHEN YOU GET HOME. Limits on raising you arms, weight you can lift, etc etc. I thought I'd catch up on some paperwork but it was all too heavy. Plan your meals. No heavy skillet. No reaching into your cabinets, etc etc.

I had my mastectomies in September and my DIEP FLAP Reconstruction a month ago. My suggestions are to get a full understanding of how slow the healing process is. I am 32 days out and still experiencing pain, discomfort with movement and incision healing. Having people to take care of me ( and my dog) was a absolute must (and a willingness to LET them help me for weeks ) . I took the warning to get ready for this surgery like you were preparing for a marathon seriously. Yet I still have had real fatigue and feeling like I should be much further along. You really only need your earplugs, eye mask, a book, lip balm , toothbrush and comb ,loose clothing to wear home , your phone, and a kind heart for all the staff. ( I could hear other patients in the hall being nasty. When you are kind and patient with the hospital staff they WANT to spend time helping you with your needs). Don’t be embarrassed to ask lots of questions throughout the process. It really helps and they really do want you to feel comfortable and confident. Number 1 thing to understand, YOU WILL BE WALKING HUNCHED OVER FOR SOME TIME and don’t be embarrassed about using a walker for a couple weeks. 🤪😘

I forgot one important tip. I forgot the “ no heat or ice rule”. I used a hot compress yesterday on one breast incision and developed blisters because I didn’t “ feel” how hot it was.

you can pack your pain meds, comfortable bras(no underwire), other items of clothing, snacks, and any form of entertainment maybe an iPad..I am praying for you sis.