What do I need?

[Jami Victoria 0]

I am being banded on the 14th. Can any of you tell me what I should have at home before I go in for surgery? For example, blender or Magic Bullet? Anything that you wish you had had in the house when you were recovering? I know that I will be back on my feet, hopefully, within a day or so, but just so I can avoid being bothered.

[Wheetsin 714]

There aren't really any set things you need, we've all needed slightly different things. There's a list, perhaps in our FAQ area. I don't remember where exactly, but I'm sure if you use the search function you'll be able to find it.

BTW, one of the things on that list is Gas-X (allegedly it helps with the surgical gas) but this is a misnomer. Gas-X is swallowed and would only work (if it works at all) on the digestive gas, it won't do anything for gas trapped between tissues in - say - your neck.

The things I was most grateful to have included a recliner - no way I could have gotten in/out of bed the first few days. My laptop and wireless phone. A dogsitter for the first few days. Extra pillows & blankets. Other than some additional basics like bottles of Water and liquid Rx, I didn't really need anything.

Magic Bullet - I doubt you'd even really think about using that before you were to a point that you could go to the store and get it. If you're supposed to focus on Protein drinks immediately pre-op, you'll probably want to go with the pre-made ones, e.g. the EAS carbadvantages or something.

[Chilly 0]

I found this: (hope it is ok)

heating pad

flexible ice pack

movies/books

liquid tylenol

comfy clothes/shoes (slip on shoes)

pillows

sports bra

Protein shakes

broth or stuff to make broth

sugarfree popicles

sugarfree jell-o

crystal light

bottled Water

stool softener

kitchen timer (for the first few days so u take sips)

and remember to buy all your groceries you will need for at least 2 weeks after surgery. I hope this helps you.

Chilly

[socaldixiegal 0]

I was on Clear liquids and 3 Protein shakes a day for the first week. I stocked up on Slimfast Low Carb (doctor recommended). For several days getting these in was tough. Recommend having a can koozy (keep the can of slimfast cold longer). Also straws.

What I drank mostly was Water with Propel packs. I buy the Crystal Light and Propel packets that you add to bottled Water. Probably around day 3 or 4 I started with some broth.

Heating pad - definitely, helps with the gas pain in the shoulder. Get your pain meds filled prior to the surgery.

Day of your surgery be sure to wear something that will be EASY to get back into post surgery. You will have difficulty bending, getting up/down etc.

[bullpen87 2]

One thing I found helpful was any family member willing to lend a hand with dishes, laundry, cooking for the rest of your household. I would have been uncomfortable without all my good help. About a week later, I was slowing and carefully getting back to doing those things for myself and for the family. Good luck!