2+ weeks Post-op #3

2nd follow-up visit...
A little more complex than the last two surgeries, it's going to take time and patience to see how things will turn out. And, most likely one more procedure. I may seek a couple of consults from other surgeons before I go forward with the next procedure. I'm sure that I can get a couple of good names from my surgeons - just want to make sure that the remedy will provide the best outcome. My next visit is April 25th.

How does it feel?
 I don't have alot of pain, though there is some pressure on the right - the one with the implant under the muscle. I tried my cover all bra the other day and after an hour I knew it would be awhile until I could wear real structured bras. Sports bra it is for awhile. I saw a piece on television about this local gal who designed a sports bra that is not a uniboob, and actually has pockets and pads in it for those who have had mastectomies. It's called the Handful. Since it qualifies as a mastectomy bra, insurance would cover it. I got one to see how it is - comfortable. Haven't used the pads yet but will likely need to do so for getting dressed up for awhile. I'm past wearing bras for 24/7, which is nice.

What I've been up to...
Well, I try to walk everyday but the weather has been pretty discouraging of that kind of activity. However, I've found time between raindrops almost every day for at least a short walk. Even though it snowed the other day the sidewalks were clear when I went out for a walk. And we've had some absolutely gorgeous sunny weather since. I'm sitting on the back porch soaking up the south sun as I write (that was Friday). Love it.

Got together for lunch with a cousin which was nice. Today I had lunch with a friend and a short walk in the neighborhood. I love to be able to walk to the places I need/want to go. Yummy Tom Yum soup at the Bai Mint Thai restaurant on Woodstock. This evening I'll get together with a friend for wine tasting at a local shop. Back to work on Monday, though I'll be working from home.

I've been making jewelry. It's a good way to get my mind on other things and not violate my post-op instructions of lifting <10 lbs, no stretching or driving. I now get to drive so that obstacle is out of the way.

I'll bore you with photos of my jewelry.

Silver and gold-tone shapes

S fasteners for pendants and necklaces

Earrings: Guinea fowl, barred wood duck, Lady Amherst tippetts with quill and goose biots;
twisted wire beads, semi-precious gem-stones.

Earrings: not your normal everyday pair; can be worn alone or as a pair; asymmetrical in length, chain shape and final bead. Not for your normal everyday girl.

Two-sided abalone wire-wrapped pendant

Opposite side of the pendant.

2nd two-sided wire-wrapped abilone pendant

Opposite side of abilone pendant

Carnelian earrings

Cluster ring with multi-colored semi-precious stones (larger ring)

Cluster ring with white/clear semi-precious stones (pinky ring)

My favorites are the feather earrings and the cluster rings. Of course, those are the items that took the longest to make. On the feathers, I made one earring, didn't like it, took it apart and started all over. Of course, glasses are required for this work. I'm not yet using precious metals, but that means that I don't have to feel bad about tearing things apart and starting all over. Someday.... and maybe some silver soldering for finer jewelry.

Finishing up on Sunday
Back to work on Monday. I'm not sure that I am mentally ready, but it will probably be good for me. I'll work from home at least the first week.

Sky is gray, and it's looking like I should get out for my walk before it starts to rain. Until later....