Wedge pillow or angle pillow, as shown here. The neck pillow is also good if you have a recliner to sleep in. You’ll want to make sure you don’t lay on the incision. Depending on how extensive the surgery is will depend on how comfortable you can try to make yourself when in a sleeping position. As a side sleeper, this wedge pillow came in handy. I also did use this neck pillow when I slept in the recliner the first few days.
These were a lifesaver because you will want to keep the area covered with ice 20 minutes off and on post-surgery. The first days having these totally help with the swelling at the incision site.
You will probably have a pretty sore throat but it’s okay to eat jello and follow that up with a lozenge or two. These things came in handy!
If you are in the hospital any number of days – it will be very helpful to have this charger!
You will need to make sure your calcium numbers are adequate before discharge. Pack these in case you are allowed to bring your own. If not. they will come in handy for at home if you feel any sort of tingles. But if it’s more than tingles and numbness, seek medical attention right away.
Your favorite socks to keep you warm the next few days in the hospital. A friend got me these and they were super helpful and kept me comfy and cozy.
Coloring books with colored pencils. You might need any easy distraction the first few days after surgery. It can help you focus on a little something other than your ex-thyroid.
These worked perfectly once my medical adhesive strip came off. I was sure to keep the adhesive strip on as long as I could until my surgeon said it was okay to remove. I wanted to avoid any unnecessary trips to the ER for infections on incision wound healing issues. I also cut mine to fit the scar appropriately. I’d also reuse them (hello, money saver) until the adhesive wore off.
Snacks that are easy to eat that will not require a lot of chewing and can easily be digested without having to swallow big pieces. Believe it or not, my go-to was Gerber Baby Snacks in Sweet Potato. They were literally a life saver after surgery and can put something in your tummy without having to chew. They literally just dissolve on your tongue.
A comfy blanket to help you feel more rested after surgery -it’s like a warm hug! This is my favorite.