I am almost a month post op. Yes, I followed my orders to a "T" but I am still unable to really eat or drink. You can forget protein shakes, I barely get in 20oz of water a day without feeling a very painful crushing sensation under my sternum. I also have tried several soft foods nothing works, even eggs I take 2 bites an have the same discomfort. I'm not sure if this is normal and will it get better. But in this heat I just long a big drink of water, something! But I sip and sip then end up hurting. Someone please give me some advice and let me know when this will become tolerable!