ESSENTIALS:
- Ice packs. Whether you use freezable eye masks, or small ziplock bags full of frozen peas. Have at least two, so one is always cold and ready to go.
- Washcloths or hand towels. Use them to wrap your ice packs and protect your skin.
- Pillows. Round up extra pillows to prop your head up in bed to reduce swelling (some people sleep in a recliner the first few nights as an alternative). A travel neck pillow can also be used to help your neck from bobbing when you are dozing off while resting.
- Baby soap for washing sutures (depending on your doctor’s instructions and if you have exposed sutures).
- Eyedrops. Your eyes will most likely be dry and tired feeling for a couple months. Single use vials are great for the first few days post-op to reduce the risk of infection.
- BIG Jackie O style sunglasses that will hide bruising and swelling during the first few weeks.
- Water bottle. You will want to stay hydrated to help with your healing.
- Tissues, q-tips, and gauze pads for gentle wiping and cleaning.
- Headphones to enjoy your entertainment whenever you want without disturbing any family or roommates.
- Earplugs to get some quiet for naps and rest.
- Arnica and bromelain pills are suppose to help reduce swelling and bruising.
- Arnica gel can be applied to bruises and will help them break down (and reduce swelling).
- Milk of Magnesia can help counteract constipation from all the pain killers (especially if you went under with anesthesia).
- Stock the fridge and pantry with easy, healthy snacks; make and freeze your favorite meals ahead of time.
- Clean the house, do laundry including your sheets, set aside comfy loungewear
- Set up “healing command station” where you plan to recover the first few days (like your nightstand or coffee table). Keep your chargers, remotes, meds, water, and supplies handy here so you don’t have to go looking for everything after surgery.
- Entertainment: your eyes will be tired and it will be hard to watch too many shows, especially while icing, so in addition to creating your watchlist of shows and movies you may want to download some audiobooks (your local library may have a program or set up an audible account), or download some new podcasts (if you haven’t listened to Serial yet...you’re welcome).