My sister underwent a preventative double mastectomy a week ago today. I want to say a big THANK YOU to everyone who showed support and love to her during this time. She is healing really well, and we’re all so thankful for that! To update y’all a bit more, she decided to go above the muscle with her implants. This (generally speaking) makes for a slightly easier recovery than going under the muscle like I did – and to each their own! She is able to move around the house and continues to do things like read, paint and talk to her boys on FaceTime who are visiting their grandmother in Mississippi 🙂 I mentioned a few weeks ago that I was putting together a care package for Lauren and asked if I should share. Y’all said a resounding YES, and I’m more than happy to show the items I included. Some are functional while others are more fun, make-you-smile kind of gifts!
Button-down PJs
Before surgery day, invest in oversized button-down shirts and button-down PJs. Why button-downs? You won’t be able to raise your arms after surgery, so being able to slip into a shirt is key. While cozy button-downs like these Splendid PJs or these Eberjey PJs will make you as comfortable as possible in the days post-surgery. This washable silk sleep mask is a great addition, too!
Bolster Pillows
One of the most functional gifts I received during my mastectomy experience were two little pink bolster pillows to go under my arms. Because you can only sleep on your back propped up on pillows, you’ll need something to support your arms at night. Since my surgery which now feels like many moons ago, some awesome women have created more customized pillows like this one for the breastie community. Worth checking out!
Post-Mastectomy Recovery Bra
I was told to wear a compression bra a little over a week out from surgery. This helps with support and to cut down on fluid output (and helps get those pesky drains out sooner!). Some surgeons recommend a sports bra or a non-underwire bra with a hook and eye front closure, rather than a pullover style or back closure. The above bra isn’t compression, but I was able to wear it a few months out from surgery and adore the buttery softness!
Drain Apron
A waist apron post-surgery is a necessity. I know some people like to pin their drains onto their shirt or even buy the robes with drain belts, but I went old school and got the apron. You could also gift this handmade practical gift basket from a New Jersey-based artist.
Dry Shampoo
Hygiene is hard. I’m not going to sugar coat it. This is when you need a true friend who will lather you up in soap and wash your oily hair OR just cover your head in Living Proof dry shampoo. Another God send are Simple Facial Wipes for easy cleaning – lifesavers throughout the whole process.
Boob Koozies
I can’t remember what store I found these in, but I bought them a few months ago when I laid eyes on them. They’re SO fun, and I found them on Amazon 🙂
Lady Parts Pencil Set
Unblushing by artist Julie Ann has some badass pieces that will undoubtedly put a smile on every recipient that receives her stuff. Although the clever pencils have since sold out, there’s no shortage of boob wrapping paper, boob makeup bags, and so much more!
Tatas Pot
How GORG is this ceramic pot?! It came to me as a gift to my sister, and I was blown away (and so badly wanted to keep it…but I did no such thing!). This mug to drink tea or this boobie journal to keep track of the meds sched post-surgery would also be a great add-on.
You’re Perfect Card
A gift is never complete without a heartfelt note! I loved the design on this “you’re perfect” one – how could you not?! But also think “I’m so glad you got that off your chest” punny card would be a hit. Both are blank inside, perfect for your beautiful words of encouragement and empowerment!
Note: This post was originally published in August 2020 and updated in October 2022.
Love this so much! My girlfriend gave me a similar package that brought a smile to my face. One thing missing is a good book
Yes! I just finished Untamed by Glennon Doyle…would’ve been the perfect addition!
I would recommend a reacher/gripper. When you bend down after surgery, its painful. Think about when you cut your finger, how it throbs until you lift your hand up? Yeah, that! I had never even thought about that before my surgery. It surprised me!
Another great idea 🙂
I love this! I create gift boxes/care packages and this was so thoughtful. I’ll definitely use this a guide when I get a request like this! Thanks for a great blog!
Leslie, thank you for all these wonderful tips….and more! I’m brca1 and had my reconstruction surgery in March 2020
(My one Sister was diagnosed with this gene when they found her to have ovarian cancer–clear of that now!!
We have called our adventures the “De-Boob, Re-Boob”… I know some people don’t see the humor, but it’s how we handle it.) One thing I recommend for wearing when have the drains connected: I have a beautiful floral cotton robe-
not only is it comfy, it’s pretty. The BIG thing….it has pockets on the outside front…I found if I turned the robe INSIDE-OUT I could slip the drain bags into the separate pockets. It kept them from getting in the way when using the toilet,
was more comfortable when sitting or walking, the bags never seemed to be “in the way” and having the robe tie, the bags were never noticable and, as with the “apron” I didn’t have to wear an extra piece of equipment.
Thank you again for sharing…I will be sharing this with my daughter-she also is brac1 and looking into upcoming procedures….I’m sure she’ll like the ta-ta party…!