Breast Implant Removal & Replacement Procedure Instructions
During surgery, a surgical bra will be placed on you and your breasts will be bandaged. The bra is to remain intact until your first postoperative visit in the office. At this time, your provider will remove your bandages.
You may shower after your first postoperative visit. Shower with your back to the water source. The water may run over your breasts. It is OK for the tape to get wet. Following your shower, you may gently pat the tape dry with your towel.
Leave the tape intact; your provider will change your dressings for the first month following surgery. If severe itching occurs, please contact the office.
A good support bra should be worn 24/7 for the first 3 months following your surgery. This DOES NOT need to be the surgical bra. Your provider will review parameters for good bras to purchase at your first post-operative appointment.
It is expected that you will feel some soreness and heaviness in your breasts. The implants will initially ‘sit high’ on your chest. As the swelling goes down, they will assume a more natural look. You may expect swelling to decrease asymmetrically at first. It will take a minimum of 3 months for all the swelling to subside.
Avoid any medications listed in your informed consent packet for 2 weeks prior to your surgery and 2 weeks post-operatively, as these medications may lead to an increase in bleeding.
It is very important to not lift, push, or pull anything over 10 LBS for 5-6 weeks.
Do not engage in strenuous physical activity or activities with repetitive motions for at least 6 weeks.
Pools and hot tubs should be avoided for 6 weeks.
Continue your prescribed antibiotics for the full 7-day course.
You may apply ice to your breasts, over your bra on the top of your breast and on the side of your breasts (PLEASE NOTE: If you have had a lift along with your remove and replace, you should NOT ice until cleared to do so by our office).
NO SMOKING for 8 weeks. Avoid being in a room with smokers. Smoking hinders the healing process.
NO NSAIDS, vitamins or herbal supplements for 2 weeks prior and 2 weeks after surgery.
Contact the office immediately if you notice any sudden increase in redness, swelling, excessive bleeding/drainage or pain at the surgical site.