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I'm pretty sure that I took one pellet three times a day. That sounds right to me. Since I was taking it over an extended period of time and wanting it to remain in my system, I didn't take a very high dosage.......low but constant. Make sure you are drinking lots and lots of water every day. Do a lot of stretching, pushups, etc... And start looking at things in your home that require you to reach up for them..........and move 'em down. I'm excited for you! |
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yeah if you turn it upside with the cap on and twist they come out. I've taken sublinguals before. The bottle says 5 3 times a day but I think I'll lower it. Except I already have 5 in my mouth :brainsucker: I'm exctied. The week will go fast .... want the place really clean and as much food prepared as possible but i should get it all done. Have tomorrow off so i'll see how much I get to .. tomorrows paper work ... billls type of such figuring out my money for this. I have the money but I need to follow through on some stuff. I'm starting to get food ready and everything. Fortunately or unfortunately I have had 3 surgeries in the past 10 years so a lot of stuff is pretty routine for me... already drink lots of water and already taking vitamin C. Okay i'm getting sleppy and i'm babbling. |
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I was on T for a little over 2 years before I had my top surgery. I've also had a total hysto back in '93, for other reasons. Testosterone has had a dramatic effect on my body fat distribution and my overall appearance, in general. I think it was a good decision, overall, that I was on T for as long as I was before having my chest done. My hips are far more narrow now, my jaw and face are noticeably more "squared" and it's been quite a bit easier for me to lose weight. Also, they say that T changes breast tissue and I think it did exactly that, in my case. I have a good hunch that FOR ME, the changes in breast tissue greatly contributed to my having such good results as I've had. One of the things I've seen change dramatically is the muscle buildup difference around my shoulders, back and neck. Something about the muscle changes in those areas seems to make the chest look better after surgery. I know for me, it did. :) ~Theo~ :bouquet: |
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I bought a few cheapie zip-front sweat jackets from Target or Walmart and wore those for a while. |
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One of the advantages to having had neck and back surgery is that all of that stuff is already in my wardrobe. Most of myself isalready fairly low for the same reason and I hope to set anything I can think i need out on the table. OK Weird question time. I read on Transbucket that one guy had troubles wiping his butt. Is this an issue i need to be concerned with? any other wierd stuff like that? I'm assuming i'll be able to deal with it hell i've had several spine surgeries and have always figured out how to do most things. Although one time I couldn't pull my pants up but i figured out the process the next time! |
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I also wore big fleece sweatpants that pulled right up and right down. Easy stuff like that. |
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Oh Koop......yes. :scared: That and ----->> :bath: I'm not trying to scare you here, but this is, and should be, a real concern for you. You need to have a system of support/help lined up before you do this thing. At least for the first couple of days following surgery. Tabs was a huge help to me, emotionally and medically. She's a trained Paramedic/EMT, and has been for over 20 years, so she knew just how to help me with everything, including the dressings, drains, etc. I am truly a very lucky guy to have her beside me, then and now. Thank G-D for these Ladies who love and stand by us like they do!!! :heartbeat::winky::thumbsup::bouquet: Do you have someone to help you with this "stuff"?? :| I'm no "Nurse Jack(ie)", but Tabs and I would most certainly help you out if we were closer. Come to think of it, Dr. V's office can also refer you to a temporary (like 2/3 days) post op care place if you don't have someone to help you for the first couple of days. This is something to seriously think about, brother. You can always call me to talk, if you like. I think you still have my number, but if you don't, just PM me. You always have a shoulder here. :winky: ~Theo~ :bouquet: |
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It's the "reaching" part that will be troublesome at first. Like reaching for your drawers and stuff. I had a lot of experience "making things work" when I had my knee surgeries. In my physical therapy classes following my knee replacements, I was showing the therapists (and other patients) how I got around and did things for and by myself. When you have to do that sort of stuff, you get a "system" that you work with to be able to take care of yourself. Ever see one of those "reachers" that some older folks use to reach things?? They look like this: http://i648.photobucket.com/albums/u...yd/hreach3.jpg I have 2 of these. It helped me a GRUNCH!!! (It also doubles for both a "pincher" and ass-grabber) :pointing: Holy shit that's a huge ol' picture, isn't it?? :| ~Theo~ :bouquet: |
This is an awesome thread and great simple info. The more I read the more I'm looking at going to Dr. V next year to get my surgery done (finally!)
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I don't think I have your number so it would be great if you'd pm it to me, I really appreciate it. Actually I was talking to a friend who had his done a year ago with Alter and if I need help with :bath: he has offered to help. One of the reasons I wanted to stay close is I do have a huge support system... and I am getting things in place. I know a couple of nurses/ex nurses and i'm hopin to talk to them in the next few days to see if they can help if needed. My room mate can help with some stuff but umm not the shower stuff. Quote:
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I have two of those grabbers also but thanks for mentioning them so I can make sure they are accessible. When placing stuff out in preparation ... i put my arms against the sides of my ribs and just bend from the elbows. If I can't reach it then I don't place it there. I assume i'll be able to bend down though and get stuff ... just lower my self to that level? |
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There are a lot of people who talk about being up and around and out and about right after surgery. While I believe this is obviously possible, I'm a big advocate of being still and sleeping as often as possible. Our body heals lost and damaged tissues during sleep, as you already know I'm sure. Give yourself permission to rest and do nothing. I know it's hard for a lot of people who are used to being on the move, but it's the best thing you can do for yourself. |
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I'll probably do a little light walking because i know you need some movement also. I've had 5 surgeries and they also have you up walking within 24 hours. |
When I stayed with Conner for his surgery, we found that a ribbon tied around his waist to support the drainage tubes was the ideal thing for showering (since we aren't close enough for me to help him shower. LOL)
You do need someone who can drain your tubes for you, honey. Line up help now because you are going to need it. Promise. |
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Hey Koop,
eh ehehehe.....I'd forgotten about all of your spine surgeries!! Mea culpa. :| You know, a lot of what might have been tough for me during my recovery from chest surgery was made a LOT easier because of all of my previous surgeries from my knees. I bet you never thought all that suffering you went through would ever have benefited you like it's (going to) when you have your chest done, but it will!! When I told Dr. V about all of my knee surgeries, including my total joint replacements, he laughed and said, "Oh, well then, this is going to be a cakewalk for you!!". Really, compared to what I've been through, it really was easier. When he does this surgery, it's not like he's entering an interior body system. He will tell you, as he told me, that "All I'm doing is removing a bit of tissue and some skin". He's not even messing with the muscular system. This is *nothing* compared to what you and I have both suffered through before with our backs and knees. It will be a *ton* easier than that was, believe me, and the recovery time is a lot faster and easier, too.!! :winky: I have been sooooo happy with Dr. V and his work. I can't say enough good things about him, really!! :thumbsup: ~Theo~ :bouquet: |
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Walking helps to prevent blood clots, lung problems (pneumonia, particularly after general anesthesia) and constipation from narcotic painkillers, and ya, that's why they get you up and moving so quickly after surgery. After my first knee surgery, I developed an anxiety disorder. I can't figure out where that came from because I've never had a nervous bone in my entire body, but I got one. Probably because that kind of surgery was so traumatic, debillitating and painful and all of the drugs (a lot of Percocet, mainly) I was on made it even worse. Percocet doesn't agree with me. For some reason, when that panicky feeling starts, walking helps me. I was afraid of having problems with this anxiety attack business when I had my chest done. Just the surgery thing and all happening again, you know. Well, I did have it for one night following surgery. I got up in the middle of the night and walked around the hotel lobby, which was absolutely beautiful. They had all of these tall ship models in glass cases and you know how I adore tall ships!! It calmed me down right away. I did a lot of walking, though, and on one of the days post op, that Tabs and I were there, we drove down to the beach at Camp Pendleton and walked around there. I was able to get around really well after the second day post op. As far as the drains go, I only had mine for 2 days post op. I really think that whether you have them or not depends on how much tissue you have removed and how much you bleed. After the second day post op, I wasn't draining much at all, so he pulled them both. What a relief that was, emotionally and pain-wise!! Have you scheduled your surgery date yet?? ~Theo~ :bouquet: |
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Koop, I know early on there were questions and answers in the thread, and wanted to pop in here to add a comment. Being in recovery I had to clarify with my Doc's before I had a total radical hysterctomy for endometrial cancer that I may have a problem with certain meds. pre and post op. My Doc and the anesthesiologist were aware I was in recovery and provided meds that left me safe and sane. Propofol is the recomended anesthesia, and no lidocaine in the drips, no benzodiazapines, no verced, etc. Just sayin' it can be a slippery slope. Best wishes to you, and I'm south of you in OC and if I can do anything holler. :nurseshot: Tommi |
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It would have been nice to stay at the ayers but i'm staying at the embassy suites instead. I wanted a bedroom with 2 beds plus a living area with a sofa sleeper. That way if the person going with me needs a bed there is one there for him. Also the seperate living room will allow him to not have to sit in silence if i'm resting. Quote:
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Even though some stuff will be old hat for me :ymca: I really appreciate everybody's input. 1) there are some things I maybe wouldn't have thought of like putting my grabbers in an accessible spot 2) Hopefully other people will learn what they need to know from this thread and I may now how to do something but i'm guessing most people having top surgery haven't had the number of surgeries I have had.
I'm really grateful for having those surgeries though because setting stuff up has just come naturally. It is so different to be doing it while I feel well. Usually I'm preparing for surgery when my pain level is at its max One thing others might find helpful that my friend mentioned last night is the drains are messy so be prepared to have a possible mess in the bed. I'm fortunate or unfortunate to be sleeping alone so I don't have to worry about another person. I actually have the type of mats they use in the hospital and a water proof cover over my mattres so those will help protect my sheets and mattress. Again surgery experience has given me the gift of throwing up on myself :| and well lets just say i'm not the best at using a bed pan while flat on my back.:eek: So i'm use to gross stuff |
Oopster
I know this is a bit of a derail but I know I will be haveig neck and back surgery to have disk spacers put in or some other such stuff like it dome.This scares the bejeasus outta me.If u dont mind can u give me some ball park idea what im going to deal with.I live with my son so he shure isnt going to be much help as a nurse,lord knows the only cooking he dose is tv dinners.
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First off Koop, congrats!
I took Arnica before and for a couple of days after my surgery and had very little bruising too. I've seen pics of some pretty bad bruising too, and really think the arnica helped me. Arwen mentioned the drains. Holy cow, is she right! I had my drains in for about a week, if I remember right. There is no way in hell I would have been able to do that by myself. The position of them alone would have made them difficult to deal with even if I hadn't just had surgery. And something that I realized after Arwen left, that caused me much dismay...the microwave in my apartment was over the stove. I couldn't reach up to put anything in it or get anything out of it. Pans were just too heavy, even empty. I didn't sleep in my bed for about a month after my surgery. Thinker mentioned the pressure of bending over at the waist...it was sort of the same thing for me, but in reverse. Plus I generally sleep on my side and that was totally out of the question for awhile. I covered my recliner in an old bed sheet in case the drains did leak (which they did, a bit) and slept there for awhile. Good luck Oopster, I'm excited for you! |
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Thanks Goofy! Thanks i have a recliner if needed ... bought myself a nice lazy boy for my last neck surgery. Microwave is already at a good level... just normally i would have troubles with one up high. I'll have people in place for the drains, although I still may not have them. Like I said he will only put them in if he really thinks they are absolutely necessary otherwise he prefers to remove any fluid via a needle. Less chance of infection. Honestly can see how the arnica would work. It's really hard to get my veins so whenever they take blood I end up bruised from all the digging. Today I've literally been watching the bruises disappear before my eyes. The smaller bruises from monday are completely gone. And the one that would be there normally a week minimum could be gone tomorrow. IT's been a trip to watch my arm today |
How often do the tubes need to be cleaned? So in case I do have them I can tentatively arrange for help.
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Since my surgery was more recent I have all my notes still;
Drains: Empty drains at least every 6 hours and more often as needed for the first 24 hours. After this empty the drains when they become half full. Do not expect the drainage to be equal on both sides; that is rare. and I did get a list of things to stop taking 2 weeks prior to surgery; aspirin, alka seltzer,BC powder, ecotrin,excendrin x-strength,backache reliever, analgesic caplets and 1 week prior advil,aleve,motrin,ibuprofen,nuprin and other products to avoid that increase bleeding; alcohol,anaprox,darvon,dristan,ginger,garlic,green tea, ginko biloba,ginseng,sine-aid are the most common. |
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On the microwave, make sure you don't have to reach higher than your belly to get into and out of it. Don't cook "heavy" as in weight foods. I tried to think of things before I left but missed that one. I felt awful 'cause Conner was REALLY hungry when he called me to tell me about the food in the microwave that he couldn't get down. I drained the drains based on levels. The first 2-3 days it was about 3-4 hours I think and then tapered off a lot. If someone has a weak stomach, don't ask them to do it. They'll make it worse. And for Gods sake make sure they steady the line at the incision BEFORE draining. I did that to Conner once by accident. Felt awful to hurt him that way. Here's hoping you don't have to do the drains but if you do, just get someone who won't be a wuss. (I actually was worried I would be a wuss.) Oh, get extra no-stick tape and cotton pads BEFORE the surgery. They will not give you enough. Get some tongue depressors too because they are awesome for smearing stuff on the areas. One thing that helped Conner a lot was getting some big water jugs for the fridge. :) He drank a buttload of water. |
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The rotating tray in microwave is at belly button level!:koolaid: Don't plan on cooking a :turkeyday: Quote:
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I have a speciall water filter i already drink around a gallon a day. :) Thanks hun for all the tidbits |
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would it be hard to have an arm in a sling?
I have a few places I will go after surgery where the people don't always think, plus everyone doesn't know me. There is a lot of shaking hands and possibility of being bumped into. I can isolate myself some from the crowd, but someone there suggested I put my arm in a sling, as a caution sign. Something that would get there attention to be careful around me. |
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On another note... I'm so freakin' excited for you!!!!! It's almost time! |
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Still got a lot to get done, but I think I'll get there. Bedroom is basically throughly cleaned and accessible. In process of putting bathroon itmes on my dresser. Don't have a lot of counter space in bathroom pluss I don't like to keep my toothbrush out with the toilet. Got my head buzzed the other day. For other people contemplating surgery, I highly recommend it. I've done it for other surgeries and it's just no maintenance. By the time i'm really feeling to a point that I care about it it's pretty much grown back anyways. |
I'm excited for you and there has been ALOT of great advice in this thread too that I am going to have to put to use when it eventually comes time for my surgery as well!
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I'll be thinking of you tomorrow, Koop. And I'll send up prayers for you and the entire surgical team.
Check in when you can and let us know how you are. Best wishes, Thinker |
Good luck, Koop! We'll have to talk once I move out there :)
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Koop,
Good luck tomorrow! I will be thinking about you and wishing a speedy recovery! I will keep the doctor and staff in my prayers.I know you have waited a long time for this! I am very excited for you. |
Very excited for you My friend, good luck :)
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I'll be thinking of you tomorrow, Koop!! (f)
Good luck and keep us posted on your progress!! It's really not that bad. It's going to be a lot less hassle than you anticipate. I remember mine was that way. It'll be done and over with in a breeze and you'll be pretty much healed up in a few weeks. :winky: ~Theo~ :bouquet: |
Good luck Koop! Will send positive energy your way!
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