Your Complete Breast Explant Surgery Recovery Guide

Breast explant surgery is a deeply personal and often empowering decision. Whether you’re choosing this path for health, comfort, or lifestyle reasons, it’s essential to understand what to expect before, during, and after the procedure. At EB Plastic Surgery, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. This comprehensive recovery guide outlines what you can anticipate, how to prepare for surgery, and tips for a smooth recovery and confident healing process.

Table of Contents

• What Is Breast Explant Surgery?
• How to Prepare for Surgery
  • Two Weeks Before Surgery
  • One Week Before Surgery
  • The Day Before Surgery
• The Day of Surgery
• What You’ll Need for Recovery
• Postoperative Instructions
  • Medications
  • Drains (If Applicable)
  • Sleeping Position
  • Incision Care
• Returning to Work, Driving, and the Gym
  • Returning to Work
  • Driving
  • Exercise and Physical Activity
• Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline
  • Day One
  • Day Two
  • Week One
  • Week Two
  • Weeks Three–Five
  • Week Six
• Want to Learn More About Breast Explant Surgery in Houston, TX?

What Is Breast Explant Surgery?

Breast explant surgery refers to the removal of breast implants. In many cases, it may also involve the removal of the surrounding capsule (capsulectomy) or be combined with a breast lift for reshaping. Every patient’s journey is unique, and your surgical plan will be tailored to your anatomy and goals.

How to Prepare for Surgery

Two Weeks Before Surgery

Preparation starts well before the day of your procedure. At least three weeks prior, you’ll meet with our team for a preoperative appointment to review your health, your goals, and the surgical plan.

Here’s what to do two weeks before surgery:

• Discontinue weight loss medications such as Ozempic®, Mounjaro®, or other GLP-1 analogs
• Stop taking non-prescription supplements and medications like ibuprofen, aspirin, vitamin E, and fish oil
• Avoid alcohol and smoking to optimize your body’s healing ability

One Week Before Surgery

This is the time to finalize logistics:

• Confirm transportation to and from the surgery center
• Arrange for time off from work (we recommend at least one week)
• Review your consent forms and your surgical plan
• Reach out to your coordinator with any remaining questions

The more mentally and emotionally prepared you are for your breast explant procedure, the smoother your experience will be. Confidence going into surgery can make a meaningful difference in your recovery.

The Day Before Surgery

The day and night before surgery, follow these steps:

• Use the special body wash provided by our team
• Eat a balanced dinner and hydrate well
• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight
• Review your instructions for any medication you may need to take the evening before or morning of surgery

Pack your bag with the following essentials:

• Government-issued ID
• Zip-up sports bra
• Zip-up jacket or hoodie
• Loose-fitting pants
• Slip-on shoes

The Day of Surgery

Arrive at the surgery center on time, dressed comfortably, and accompanied by someone you trust. Your companion should plan to stay with you throughout the day and help care for you at home afterward.

You’ll feel groggy after surgery and will likely want to rest. Light movement—like walking to the bathroom—is encouraged the same day to promote circulation and reduce the risk of complications. Hydration and a light meal will help you recover from anesthesia.

What You’ll Need for Recovery

To make your recovery easier, we recommend having the following on hand:

• A surgeon-approved, zip-up sports bra
• Comfortable, loose clothing
• Post-surgical medications
• A stack of pillows or a wedge pillow to help prop you up while sleeping
• Dry gauze (if needed)

Postoperative Instructions

Medications

Take all prescribed medications as directed, including pain relievers and antibiotics. Staying ahead of your pain and inflammation will make it easier to stay mobile and heal efficiently.

Drains (If Applicable)

Depending on your procedure, you may go home with drains. Our team will teach you how to:

• Clean and care for the drain site
• Record drainage output
• Secure the drains to clothing to avoid tugging

Some reddish fluid is normal in the first 48 to 72 hours. This may seem messy, but it is entirely expected.

Sleeping Position

Most patients prefer sleeping on their backs in a slightly elevated position. You can use pillows, a wedge pillow, or a recliner to find a comfortable setup. While it is safe to lie flat if preferred, stomach sleeping should be avoided for at least 2 to 3 weeks. Side sleeping is generally okay as long as there is no pressure on the breasts.

Incision Care

• Keep incisions dry for the first 48 hours
• After 48 hours, you can shower normally (just let soapy water run over the area)
• Pat the area dry—do not rub
• Leave the Steri-Strips intact; they are designed to stay on during showers
• Do not apply Neosporin or other topical ointments unless specifically instructed

Returning to Work, Driving, and the Gym

Returning to Work

Most patients can return to work between three to seven days after surgery, especially if their job is not physically demanding. However, we recommend taking at least one whole week off to give yourself time to rest without pressure.

Driving

You may resume driving once you are no longer taking narcotic medications and feel fully alert and in control.

Exercise and Physical Activity

Light walking is encouraged early in the recovery process. More intense physical activities, including strength training or cardio, should be avoided until after your four to six-week follow-up when your surgeon clears you.

Week-by-Week Recovery Timeline

Day One

• You’ll be tired and will need help with most tasks
• Take medications on schedule and begin light walking
• Stay hydrated and eat something light

Day Two

• You may experience soreness or increased bruising
• Showering is allowed today—follow incision care instructions
• Continue monitoring for unusual swelling, fevers, or chills

Week One

• You’ll likely feel well enough to return to work
• Drains (if present) are typically removed at your one-week follow-up appointment
• Continue wearing your surgical bra and limit your activity

Week Two

• You’ll resume most normal daily routines
• Bruising and swelling should be reduced, though some fatigue is still normal
• Avoid overexertion and listen to your body

Weeks Three–Five

• The swelling has mostly resolved
• You’ll likely be cleared to resume most workouts and physical activity
• Scar therapy with silicone products can begin (if recommended)

Week Six

• You should feel like yourself again
• Scars will begin to mature
• You’ll be back to your regular energy levels and can resume all aspects of your lifestyle

Want to Learn More About Breast Explant Surgery in Houston, TX?

Choosing to undergo breast explant surgery is a highly personal decision. At EB Plastic Surgery, our goal is to support your physical recovery and emotional well-being through expert care, clear communication, and personalized guidance. Whether you are just starting to explore your options or are already scheduled for surgery, we’re here to help every step of the way.

To learn more about breast revision or explant surgery, call us at (281) 990-8487 or complete our online contact form. We look forward to guiding you on your breast explant journey.