Recovery Timeline

Explant recovery is shorter than augmentation recovery for most patients — but it's not nothing. Honest expectations help you plan time off work, support at home, and a realistic return to activities.

Day 0: Surgery day

• Surgery 1.5-3 hours under general anesthesia
• Drains placed (typically 1-2 per side)
• Surgical bra applied
• Hospital stay overnight
• Pain managed with IV then oral medication
• Light dinner if tolerated

Days 1-3

• Discharge to hotel or home
• Drain output recorded daily
• Sleep elevated 45° on back, no side sleeping
• Pain peaks day 2-3, then improves
• Surgical bra worn continuously
• Showering: sponge bath only; no immersion
• Light walking encouraged (anti-blood-clot)
• No lifting more than 2-3 kg

Days 4-7

• Drains typically removed when output drops below 30ml/day
• First shower (depending on surgeon's protocol)
• Pain medication transitions to acetaminophen only
• Increased mobility but still no heavy activity
• First follow-up visit (in-person if local, video if international)

Week 2

• Office work resumes for many patients
• Driving permitted (off narcotics, full mobility)
• Bruising fading
• Range of motion improving
• Steri-strips or sutures may be removed
• Surgical bra continues

Weeks 3-4

• Light cardio (walking, stationary bike) permitted
• No chest exercises or upper body weights
• Transition from surgical bra to soft sports bra
• Most patients feel notably better
• Scars are still red and raised

Weeks 5-6

• Return to most cardio activities
• Pathology results typically back by now
• Body symptoms (if BII concerns) — some patients reporting improvement
• Driving long distances OK
• Travel OK

Weeks 7-12

• Weight training resumes (gradually)
• Chest exercises last to reintroduce
• Final shape becoming apparent
• Sleep position fully unrestricted
• Scar massage begins (per surgeon protocol)

Months 3-6

• Scars maturing — red turning pink, then fading
• Tissue settling into final position
• For patients with BII symptoms — many report continued improvement
• Sun protection on scars (SPF 50+, hat)

Months 6-12

• Final result becoming evident
• Scars continuing to fade (silicone sheet or scar treatment optional)
• Tissue settling complete
• Annual follow-up photo (optional, for long-term monitoring)

Emotional recovery

Warning signs — call immediately

• Fever over 38.5°C / 101°F
• Severe asymmetric swelling, redness, or pain
• Significant new drainage from incision
• Difficulty breathing
• Calf pain or swelling (DVT concern)
• Persistent vomiting