Quote from: EliJames on July 08, 2012, 04:55:16 PM
I'm having keyhole surgery on July 24th and I just have a bunch of random questions. I've moved from being nervous to being excited and feeling ready (for the most part).
First, can I wear my packer during/right after surgery? I've worn my packer (with jockstrap harness) 24/7 for almost a year and I feel horrible without it.
Second, what can I do to be prepared with only 2 weeks left? I will be getting a call soon about what pills to stop taking and whatnot, but I don't know if there is anything else in particular to do.
Third, I've always been thin except for my "spare tire"/love handles and I'm nervous that without my binder (which is full length) that there will be a "fat bulge" especially because my harness is a little tight on my waist. Basically how can I get rid of my curvy shape? (awhile after surgery of course)
Fourth, going off the last question, what is a good harness? I'm getting tired of wearing 2 pairs of "underwear" and I was thinking about transwear (I think that's what it is). Also it's a pain because when I lean over people can see my 2 bands and it's a little weird...
Fifth, what should I expect the first few days? Will I just want to watch t.v. and play video games for the first week?
Sixth (and last), I'm going to a wedding on the 4th or 5th day after surgery (I don't remember) and I will have drains in and such. Will I feel good enough or will the drains be really cumbersome? I'm not going to dance or anything probably just find a seat and stay seated.
The questions are all over the place, but I'd really appreciate any input 
Thanks
Hey,
First of all, congratulations on your surgery.
I had DI, not keyhole, so my recovery etc was alittle different and longer to what yours will be, but Ill try to give you what advice I can.
1. I have no idea on what theyll say about this, but I personally would suggest just dealing with not wearing it for a short while. Youd be dressed in a hospital gown, so a packer will be noticeable, and given that the doctors know what youre in for, Id feel awkward them noticing me wearing something down there. But thats just me. Plus, I have no idea what their rules are regarding something like that, so you may get the embarrassment of them asking you to remove it. But like I said, I have no idea.
2. Not much more you can do in 2weeks, just make sure you have everything ready. Your bag packed, the right forms etc sorted.
3. After surgery Id suggest trying to put on healthy weight, combined with working out your upper body, especially the shoulders, chest and lats. Thisll help widen your upper body, decreasing the wider appearance of your hips.
4. I dont wear a harness, so hopefully someone else can chime in here...
5. The first few days you will be taking it VERY easy. Just mainly resting, and no moving your arms even above waist level.
6. 4/5 days after surgery does sound pretty early. But with it being key hole, hopefully your body will be feeling closer to normal than if healing from DI. I remember at 11 days, getting the bus into town to meet a friend, and feeling ok. Just listen to your body.
As for drains, I actually only had the drains in overnight, and they were removed the next day (it didnt feel good that part) but I cannot imagine having to go anywhere with them in! I had to have help to walk to the bathroom that night. They took up some room and were more than noticeable. Bearing in mind, I still had a hospital gown on, so they were laying out the open sides, but I dont see how it would work... :/
Hopefully youll have your drains out by then...
I hope everything goes well for you, and that your recovery goes well
