After a breast augmentation, breast implant revision surgery may sometimes be needed to remove or replace the implants. Patients may need to have the procedure to address complications like implant rupture or capsular contracture, or may decide to have the procedure to alter the appearance of the breasts.
Just as with any other procedure, recovery after a breast implant revision surgery will involve following some important instructions to support the body’s healing process.
In this blog, we’ll explain what you can expect after the procedure and outline some important recovery tips to follow.
What is breast implant revision surgery?
Breast implant revision surgery is designed to remove or replace existing breast implants. The procedure might involve switching to a different size, shape, or type of implant, simply removing implants altogether, or addressing complications that have developed over time.
The surgery is tailored to each patient’s needs, and the steps of the procedure will depend on the type of complication that has occurred or the patient’s aesthetic preferences.
What to expect after breast implant revision surgery
Recovery from breast implant replacement surgery requires a careful balance of rest, pain management, and adherence to post-operative instructions to avoid complications.
Straight after the procedure, you will likely notice discomfort, swelling, and a feeling of tightness in your chest. This is normal as your body heals from surgery and should subside throughout your healing process.
Strenuous exercise and activities that engage your chest muscles should be avoided during this period. However, you can slowly reintroduce gentle activities as your healing progresses, eventually returning to your regular routine when you fully recover.
Essentially, some post-surgical discomfort is expected, and you’ll need to manage your activity levels to allow your body sufficient rest. You’ll be able to slowly resume your normal activities as your body heals, which we will explain in our recovery tips.
Tips to follow after breast implant revision surgery
To help you as you recover, A/Prof Magnusson will provide you with instructions to help you through the healing process. It’s really important to follow his guidance, as his instructions will be specifically tailored to your personal needs and the specifics of your surgery.
Your recovery instructions will often include the following tips, but the further details may vary. Here are our top tips to follow after your surgery:
- Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting.
In the weeks following breast implant revision surgery, it will be essential to give your body the time it needs to heal. Avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy lifting helps to minimise strain on the chest area, reducing the risk of complications such as swelling, bleeding, or shifting of the implants. Stick to light activities, like gentle walking, until A/Prof Magnusson advises that it’s okay to gradually increase your activity level.
- Slowly resume physical activities.
Recovery doesn’t mean you have to be completely inactive, but it’s important to ease back into physical activities slowly. You will typically be encouraged to start with light movements that don’t engage the chest muscles and gradually increase intensity as you heal. When appropriate, resuming light activities can actually support your recovery by encouraging blood flow and preventing complications such as blood clots.
- Wear your supportive bra.
After your procedure, you’ll need to wear a supportive bra. You’ll normally need to wear it full-time in the early days of your recovery, before being able to wear it part-time. Wearing a supportive bra after the procedure helps to maintain the new shape of your breasts and provides necessary support as the implants settle. It helps to minimise movement, which can reduce the risk of implant displacement or strain on healing tissues. The bra will also help swelling to subside, which is an important part of the recovery process and will help you see your results sooner.
- Manage pain and discomfort.
Some pain and discomfort will be normal after breast implant revision surgery. Whether you will be taking prescribed pain medication or over-the-counter medications, it will be extremely important to follow A/Prof Magnusson’s advice. Other tips, such as gently applying a cold compress, can also help to manage discomfort.
- Avoid sleeping on your stomach.
Sleeping in the right position can make a big difference in your recovery. Lying on your back helps protect the surgical area from unnecessary pressure and allows the implants to settle without movement. Using extra pillows to elevate yourself slightly as you sleep can help prevent you from sleeping on your stomach.
- Avoid alcohol.
Alcohol consumption can interfere with the recovery process, particularly in the early stages. Alcohol can thin the blood, increasing the risk of bleeding, and it may also interfere with medications. Avoiding alcohol can prevent these complications and allow your body to heal well.
- Quit smoking.
If you smoke, quitting can significantly improve your body’s healing process. Smoking affects blood circulation, reducing oxygen supply to healing tissues and increasing the risk of complications like infection and delayed wound healing. Most plastic surgeons will typically instruct you to quit smoking before and after surgery.
- Stay hydrated.
Staying hydrated will be helpful during your recovery. Drinking enough water can help to reduce swelling, aid in digestion and support your overall health. Be sure to keep hydrated throughout your recovery by drinking water regularly.
- Follow a healthy diet.
Supporting your recovery with a balanced, nutrient-rich diet can make a big difference in how you feel and how quickly you heal. A healthy diet not only supports healing but also helps maintain your energy levels during the recovery period when you might not be as active as usual. Meal prepping some healthy meals before your surgery can help you follow a healthy diet during your recovery.
- Attend your check-up appointments.
During your recovery, you’ll have check-up appointments with A/Prof Magnusson to monitor your healing. You should always attend these appointments, as it will allow him to assess the operated area for any signs of complications, or make any adjustments to your recovery instructions.
Book your breast implant revision consultation with A/Prof Magnusson in Gold Coast or Toowoomba
If you think you may need a breast implant revision procedure, we recommend booking a consultation with A/Prof Magnusson in Gold Coast or Toowoomba locations.
During your consultation, A/Prof Magnusson can discuss your reasons for undergoing the procedure and make a plan to address your concerns appropriately.
Please contact our team to arrange your consultation or to ask any further questions you may have about breast implant revision surgery.