Explant surgery involves the surgical removal of breast implants, often including the surrounding scar tissue or capsule that naturally forms around them. Many individuals choose this procedure for various reasons, from addressing health concerns like implant rupture, capsular contracture, or symptoms associated with breast implant illness, to a personal preference to return to a more natural state. Understanding the stages of recovery can help individuals feel more prepared and contribute to a smoother healing process.
The Immediate Recovery Phase
Immediately following explant surgery, patients typically wake from anesthesia feeling groggy and disoriented, with some experiencing nausea. The chest area will likely feel sore, tight, and swollen, and bruising is common.
Dressings and bandages, often including a compression wrap or surgical bra, will be in place to minimize swelling and provide support. Many patients also have surgical drains, small tubes placed under the skin to collect excess fluid and blood, helping to prevent complications like seromas or hematomas. Drains are usually kept in place for approximately three to five days, though this can vary.
Initial mobility is often limited, with minimal activity recommended for the first five days. Light walking is encouraged to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. Patients are advised to avoid raising their arms above their shoulders for about 10 days to protect the surgical site.
Physical Healing and Appearance Changes
The physical evolution of the surgical site unfolds over several weeks and months. Swelling and bruising are prominent initially, gradually subsiding within a couple of weeks, though complete resolution can take several months. Scars will appear red and possibly lumpy for a few months, but they typically fade and become less noticeable over time. Surgeons often strategically place incisions to minimize their visibility.
Immediately after surgery, the breasts may appear flattened, deflated, or “pancake-like” due to the sudden absence of the implants. This initial appearance is temporary. As swelling diminishes and the body’s tissues adapt, the breasts will gradually change shape. This process, sometimes referred to as “fluffing,” involves the natural breast tissue settling and reshaping, with full “fluffing” potentially taking up to 12 months.
Skin laxity is a common concern, as the skin may have stretched significantly to accommodate the implants. While some natural skin retraction occurs, the extent varies based on age, skin elasticity, implant size, and how long the implants were in place. Some individuals may consider additional procedures, such as a breast lift or fat transfer, to address excess skin or restore volume after the implants are removed.
Symptom Improvement and Overall Well-being
Many individuals undergo explant surgery to find relief from systemic symptoms attributed to their implants, such as fatigue, brain fog, or joint pain. A significant number of patients report improvement in these symptoms following the procedure. However, the timeline and degree of symptom resolution can vary among individuals, with some experiencing immediate relief and others a more gradual improvement.
Beyond the physical changes, the recovery journey also encompasses emotional and psychological adjustments. Patients may experience a mix of relief, empowerment, and renewed confidence. It is also common to experience emotional fluctuations, including anxiety or a sense of grief over body image changes.
Prioritizing mental well-being throughout this process is important. Seeking support from friends, family, or professional therapy can be beneficial in navigating these emotional aspects. Embracing the body’s natural state and focusing on overall health can contribute to a positive psychological outcome.
Practical Post-Operative Care
Proper post-operative care is fundamental for a smooth recovery and to minimize complications. Incisions must be kept clean and dry according to the surgeon’s instructions. Patients are often advised to take sponge baths until drains are removed and incisions have healed, after which warm showers are typically permitted.
Managing surgical drains, if present, is a key part of daily care. This involves emptying and measuring the fluid output two to three times a day and “stripping” or “milking” the drains to prevent clots. It is important to monitor the color and amount of drainage and to contact the surgeon if there are signs of infection, such as redness around the drain site, unusual odors, excessive pain, or a sudden increase in fluid output. Drains are typically removed once the fluid output consistently drops to a low level.
Pain management typically involves prescribed medications, transitioning to over-the-counter relievers as healing progresses; cool compresses can also help reduce swelling and bruising. Activity restrictions are important to prevent strain on healing tissues; patients should avoid lifting over 10 pounds for approximately six weeks and refrain from strenuous activities for three to six weeks. Light walking is encouraged to maintain circulation. Sleeping on the back with the head elevated is often recommended for the first week. Attending all scheduled follow-up appointments with the surgeon is essential to monitor healing and address any concerns.