Breast Implant Removal Recovery
How long is recovery after explant?
Wondering what to expect after breast implant removal? Recovery from breast implant removal will depend on whether the procedure is a standard removal or total capsulectomy. A total capsulectomy will have a more involved recovery due to the more invasive nature of the procedure. Full recovery after surgery is generally 6 weeks. Full recovery refers to a patient returning to all normal activities including heavy lifting.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner
How long should I take off work after breast implant removal?
It is recommended that patients take at least one week off work for most occupations. If your job requires you to engage in any strenuous activity or heavy lifting you should seek exemption from these activities for three to six weeks. You should also ensure that you are no longer on the stronger painkillers before returning to work.
How long after breast implant removal can I drive?
Dr. Richardson recommends that patients refrain from driving for one week. The primary reason is due to the likelihood of the patient still being on painkillers during this week. The secondary reason is to avoid any upper body strain in the early stages of recovery and avoid any dangerous situations that may arise from restricted mobility in the upper body.
How long until I can get back to the gym after explant surgery?
Dr. Richardson recommends that patients who are having breast revision surgery proceed with caution when returning to the gym. The main consideration for patients wanting to get back to the gym is you should not engage in any physical activity that significantly elevates your heart rate for the first six weeks after surgery. This is to ensure the safety of the patient and optimal healing. After one week patients are able to return to light walking around the block at very manageable pace. After three weeks patients are able to go back to the gym and resume light lower body exercise- nothing that engages the upper body. After six weeks patients can return to any and all normal exercise including weightlifting.
How long until I can go swimming after breast implant removal?
Dr. Richardson says that after three weeks breast implant removal patients are able to submerge themselves in the pool or ocean but should avoid actual swimming or going into any deep waters for three to six weeks.
What to expect after breast implant removal
Breast implant removal recovery is generally more manageable than an initial breast augmentation mammoplasty. With the correct usage of pain killers throughout the first few days of recovery patients can generally manage quite easily.
Do you have questions about breast implant removal? Are you interested in breast implant removal in Brisbane? Contact Dr. Richardson’s team to obtain a detailed information pack. You can see before and after photos here, or check out our Instagram for images of real patients.
