Mastectomy & Breast Reconstruction Surgery Checklist

Preparing for your mastectomy or breast reconstruction surgery is an important step toward a safe procedure and smooth recovery. Use this checklist to make sure you’re fully ready before arriving at Torrance Memorial Medical Center.

Day of Surgery Checklist: Are You Ready?

Review each item before leaving for the hospital:

Before You Leave Home

• ☐ I have not eaten or had anything to drink since midnight, including gum, candy, or mints (except approved medications with small sips of water)
• ☐ I have not applied makeup, perfume, lotion, deodorant, or hairspray
• ☐ I am not wearing contact lenses, hairpins, dark nail polish, artificial nails, metal items, or body piercings

What I’m Wearing

• ☐ Loose-fitting, comfortable clothing
• ☐ A front-opening shirt (buttons or zipper)
• ☐ Rubber-soled, non-slip shoes or easy slip-on shoes

Transportation & Support

• ☐ I have arranged for someone to:
  • Drive me to the hospital
  • Pick me up after surgery
  • Stay with me for at least 24 hours after discharge
• ☐ I am allowing plenty of time to arrive at the hospital
• ☐ I am using a vehicle that is easy to get in and out of for my return home

What I Brought (and What I Left Behind)

Essentials Only

• ☐ Photo ID
• ☐ Insurance card
• ☐ Eyeglasses (no contacts)
• ☐ Dentures
• ☐ Hearing aids

Optional Comfort Items

• ☐ Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush/comb, lip moisturizer, deodorant)
• ☐ Earplugs and eye mask for better rest

Left at Home

• ☐ Wallet, purse, cash, credit cards
• ☐ Jewelry (rings, earrings, watches)
• ☐ Other valuables

Visitors & Support While Hospitalized

• ☐ I have selected one or two designated caregivers or visitors
• ☐ I understand that limiting visitors helps reduce the risk of infection

Pain Management: What You Should Know

Understanding pain—and how it’s treated—can help you recover more comfortably and confidently.

Common Myths vs. Facts

Myth: Pain medication will eliminate all pain
Fact: Medication helps manage pain, but may not remove it completely

Myth: I should wait until pain is severe before taking medication
Fact: Pain is easier to control when treated early and on schedule

Myth: Taking pain medication means I’m weak
Fact: Pain is a medical condition, and managing it helps recovery

Myth: I’ll become addicted to pain medication
Fact: For patients without a history of addiction, the risk is very low

Myth: Pain medication always causes heavy sedation
Fact: Some drowsiness may occur initially, but typically improves

Myth: “As-needed” medication is enough
Fact: Scheduled pain management is often more effective

Understanding Your Pain

Managing pain is a key part of your care at Torrance Memorial Medical Center. Our goal is to help reduce discomfort so you can heal and return to normal activities as quickly as possible.

Pain Scale (0–10)

• 0 = No pain
• 1–3 = Mild pain
• 4–6 = Moderate pain
• 7–10 = Severe pain

How to Communicate Your Pain

You are the best person to describe your pain. Your care team may ask:

• Where is your pain located?
• What does it feel like? (sharp, dull, burning, throbbing, etc.)
• When does it occur?

Pain can affect sleep, mood, appetite, and activity—so it’s important to speak up.

Tips for Managing Pain Effectively

• Report pain early—don’t wait
• Rate your pain before and after taking medication
• Tell your care team about any side effects, such as:
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Constipation
  • Itching or drowsiness

Our Commitment to You

At Torrance Memorial, we are committed to:

• Providing safe and effective pain management
• Listening to your concerns
• Helping you stay comfortable during recovery

While we may not eliminate all pain, we will work closely with you to find the best treatment plan for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can’t I eat or drink before surgery?

Fasting reduces the risk of complications during anesthesia.

Why do I need to remove nail polish and jewelry?

These can interfere with monitoring equipment and increase safety risks.

How many visitors should I have?

Limit to one or two caregivers to reduce infection risk and support recovery.