What should I know following a lumpectomy?

I've been through the chemo and am going for a lumpectomy on Tuesday. When I saw the surgeon she told me what she will do and I understand all of that stuff. But I forgot to ask what I should do after the surgery. I'm looking for details that the doctors don't think to tell you. Like do I need to stock up on some button front shirts or will I still be able to wear pullovers the first week or so?

Thank you Denise. I had forgotten that I'd need to wear bras 24/7. Since my hair is just starting to grow back from chemo that will make things easier.

Wearing a bra is more comfortable than going bra-less (suprised me), here in Australia, there is a probram to provide you with a suitable one, see the breast care nurse!
Make sure there are no underwires.
Stitches need to be kept dry, so depending on the dreasing, showers can be a problem.
You may have a drain tube and bag to collect fluid. I carried mine in a "bum bag" or "fanny pack" (depends on where you live, and what you call them!) that way I could hide the tube and bag and get on with normal things.
When getting dressed, put your bad arm in sleeves first, it makes it easier.
Start your physio as soon as you can to get full movement back as soon as possible.
Avoid carrying excessive weights.
When sleeping, keep arm elevated on a pillow (comfort and reduces swelling).
A roll of something soft between your ribs and upper arm can help if pressure is uncomfortable. Our local support group has small, pretty, mon shaped cushions with a strap to go over your shoulder that a volunteer group makes for us - perfect!
Good luck, at least you are over the chemo.'

I had surgery first then chemo and radiation.

I was able to wear pullovers right away, but I had to sleep with a bra on for about a month and put one on as soon as I got out of the shower and I hate bras. I couldn鈥檛 lift that arm over my head, pull or lift anything heavy for about 3 months, You also cannot get it wet for the first 5-7 days, so no showers only baths, making hard to wash your hair.

I hope this helps and good luck you have been through the worst of it already.