Two/Three weeks post surgery update and things that have helped

 I'm three weeks since the hernia repair/panni removal with T-cut and two weeks out from the thigh lift/lower back/butt lift.  I had two drains in from the first surgery and two more put in with the second surgery.  On Monday, the doctor took out one drain and he took out two more today so I'm down to one drain in my left knee.  I'm pretty much off my pain meds except for occasionally before I go to sleep.  I've spent the last two weeks in my bathrobe becase it's been too hard with the drains, ace bandages around my thighs, ...  Today I put on stretch capris for the first time to provide support instead of the ace bandages.  I feel like I have so much more freedom.

Things that helped me:

For the first three weeks, I slepted on my back on the the couch with two pillows behind my head and three under my legs.  I put a water proof pad on the couch which protected it from drainage.

I got a toilet seat riser from CVS.  The first two days after the second surgery, my husband had to hold me over the toilet and then I was able to squat.  Working out the legs before hand helped a lot.

My magic bullet has been a big help making protein frappachinos and protein smoothies.  I've been pushing the protein powder to get my protein in.

I keep all my meds, pain pills, phone, phone charger, water, remote controls, and chapstick next to me at the couch.

I bought baby wipes and keep them in the bathroom and use them everytime after I go to the bathroom to keep myself clean.

I use one wash cloth with soap to wash myself and one with jus****er to wipe down so I can get a sponge bath.

I did not need a walker or cane.

I kept low salt saltines around for the first two weeks.  Helped with nausea and I didn't feel like eating much else.

I used non-scented sanitary pads on places with extra drainage.

I really lowered my expectations on how fast I would heal and just allowed myself to rest and heal.

I set my phone alarm to everytime I had to take something like vitamins, anti-biotics, and pain pills.

For the first three/four days, I took my pain pills every 3 hours whether I needed them or not.

Straws worked well with my water and protein drinks so I could drink them lying down on the couch.

I think that's most of it.  I'll post more if I think of it.

Jan

Thanks!  Getting ready for my first round (brachio. BL/BA) in  2 1/2 weeks!  Every bit of info helps!