October 18th 2024

What to Wear After Shoulder Surgery: 10 Things I Wish I Had Packed

My Guide on What to Wear & Pack to Prepare

Best Bra for Shoulder Surgery

Are you getting ready for shoulder surgery? If so, you might be wondering what you'll need for your hospital stay. After my own surgery and recovery, I've learned a thing or two about what it means to go through this rather life changing event.

Below is a list I put together after going under the knife with must-haves for shoulder surgery, including what I wore, practical essentials everyone needs, things I wish I’d had, and what you can probably leave at home.

 

The Practical Packer: Essentials


1. Comfortable Clothing: Picture yourself waking up post-op. You probably don’t want to keep wearing your hospital gown and the last thing you’re thinking about is struggling into jeans. 

The Go-To Post-Op Wardrobe: 

Pack loose-fitting, soft clothes that will be easy to put on and take off with one hand.

  • Main: stretchy racerback tank, zip up hoodie and elastic waistband sweatpants are a great option. Large armholes and stretchy fabric makes it easy to wriggle in and out of without needing to move your tender shoulder.
  • Accessories! Bring a hair tie and socks, especially with sole grips for slippery hospital floors! 
  • Don’t forget your bras! I bought this amazing front-close bra for the hospital and this full coverage easy on bra for discharge and beyond. 

2. Toiletries: Some hospitals will provide the basics but it never hurts to bring a toothbrush, toothpaste, and any skincare you can’t live without.

  • If you wear glasses or contacts make sure to pack those too! 


3. Medications: This was my first mistake when I had my shoulder surgery! I was so nervous I forgot one of my medications and my poor husband had to drive all the way across town to get them in a panic.

  • Pack these in a pill organizer and bring a list with the names and doses for your medical team too! 


4. Cables/ Charger: You’ll likely have a bit of downtime during your hospital stay, so pack your phone charger (I like this extra long one) and any other cords you might need (like for an e-reader, medical devices, watch, etc)

 

What I Wish I’d Had

1. Cozy Blanket or Throw: Remember how I said hospitals can be chilly? Don’t make my mistake and pack a blanket for additional warmth and to make your stay feel more like home.

2. Personal Pillow: I‘ll just say it- the hospital pillows are the worst! I didn’t sleep well during my stay because I was so used to using my particular pillow from home.


What I didn’t Need to Pack 

1. Snacks: I love having a good healthy snack personally, but found myself mostly ordering from the hospital cafeteria or just getting food delivered for the convenience. 

2. Electronic Candles/photos and other decor: Some folks suggested I bring these to make the hospital room feel more homey but ultimately there wasn’t much time to set them up beforehand and after the should surgery it felt like a chore. 

3. Pharmacy Goods: Advil, cold packs, or other pharmacy supplies can be left at home. Your hospital will almost certainly provide these. 


Remember to take it easy, lean on your support people and medical team, and soon you’ll be on your way to better physical health. Wishing you a comfortable and easy surgery day!