Today I had surgery to have a port put into my chest.

[PennyK]

19. Well, they DO stick the needle in

The nurse will tell me to take a deep breath right as she's doing it. Even with a less-than-terrific job, it hurts a tiny bit for a second. It's still easier than looking for a vein. And I did the same as you with the dressing. I didn't realize I had written instructions on how to remove them, involving soaking, etc., so I ended up with a gross-looking scar that took a while to heal. Sorry!
Surprised to see that the numbing cream, Lidocaine/Prilocaine, isn't used by everyone. I put a dab on an hour before my appointment and cover it with plastic wrap. You'll notice other people in the waiting room with the plastic wrap hanging out of their shirts! Make sure to wear something with a loose or low neck, so they can easily get in there.
Trust me, the port thing makes everything a lot simpler...although I do feel like I should be communicating with Locutis of Borg!