October 17, 2014 - Surgery #5 - Post Op Day 1 - Anchors

Post Op Day 1. Disclaimer: I am still feeling the anesthesia so I have no idea how streamlined this blog post will be so hang in there with me if I am all over the place or you notice drool on the screen.  I’m keeping it short sweet and to the point.

The strange moment of the morning, looking down and seeing that the 5 men in the operating room put my surgical bra on inside out. Men, they know how to take bras off but not how to put them on! Had me laughing. It’s really inconsequential, but I noticed it because I was itching on one side and when I peeked in to see what was what I saw the Velcro there that should be on the outside to hold drains. At least they did a good job of cramming it full of fluff for comfort, but don’t laugh at me if you are walking behind me and see all the tags hanging out on the outside. That’s why all men need the help of a good woman, of which there was only one other than myself in the operating room. But all in all surgery went very well, minus the 45 minutes of trying to get IV access when I arrived. I’m well known for very poor veins and when you are dehydrated from not being able to eat or drink, that doesn't help the issue, but finally 2 anesthesiologists tag teamed and after 3 pokes they found a vein in my wrist and we finally had access and could get the surgery rolling. Lead Plastic Surgeon said it went very well, and he told Ron and my Mom that I kept them all very entertained while lying on the table when they were trying to get me under. Thankfully, he also said, what happens in the OR stays in the OR, but I am hopeful I didn't say too much to embarrass myself. I have stories, you know, like this from previous surgeries. Good thing Ron was not around to hear it and tell me all about it. I will say I have an amazing surgeon. I have very vivid memory in the OR while they were trying to get me sedated. I recall them saying over and over “sally, you have to breath deeper, your breaths are too shallow” and I recall feeling so much anxiety about that. The surgeon must have seen the fear in my eyes and he reached over and grabbed my hand and held it the entire time until they got me settled. It literally brought tears to eyes in the moment at that kind gesture. Of note, He, Ron, and I have been through a lot on this journey, and it’s obvious he is very invested in me since we've had some bumps along the way.

We were at the hospital about 9 hours, much longer than we expected but only because I had some difficulty post op with getting my cognitive function back. It took a lot to get me under and therefore it took me a while to come back out of it. But by 7pm we were home and settled in and had gotten through this “moment”.  It was a good procedure and my pain is very well controlled.  I’m not enjoying this surgical vest, but it can come off tomorrow when I shower so I’m looking forward to that.

 I was a little sad to see how large the incision is, spanning the entire width of Boob 1 but it is placed on the underside where I won’t really be able to see it without looking in the mirror (I know about the incision because of all of the black marker marks he used in preparation during the ever so much fun show and tell session right before going into the OR). And I don’t really plan on checking it out in the mirror as you will recall from surgery 1-4. Combine this new scar with the old scar and I have what resembles a nautical anchor. That alone is worth a little giggle. Don’t most flotation devices come with nautical themes?  It’s surely entertaining to view. But I will wait a bit. Ron will see it tomorrow when we take the bandage off so he can give me the scoop then.

The only remaining item is I am running a low grade fever. Fevers can happen post operations, so as long as it stays low and doesn't rise, all is well. I haven’t had a fever before following any of the previous operations so we are just staying on top of it. That’s an ok item for your prayer list if you are just sitting around there at your desk thinking “I wish I had something to pray for”. Boob#1 has come through with flying colors and if I can get this grogginess to resolve, keep the pain tolerable with the least amount of itching and nausea (been nauseated a god bit), and the fever to go away we will really be doing well. I couldn't be more pleased with how I feel seeing as my surgery was just 24 hours ago. God is good.

Hugs to each of you for enduring all these surgeries with me. It’s so much easier to face when I have this team behind me and ongoing encouragement. More later when I am in a better state of mind. And those of you going to the fair, have a grilled corn and chocolate funnel cake in my honor and send me a picture!