Case #1343 · San Diego, CA
Breast Implant Removal (Explant)
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This 56-year-old patient from San Diego, CA desired to remove her breasts after suffering from Breast Implant Illness symptoms for years. Dr. Cassileth performed bilateral removal of breast implants with an internal breast lift.
Continued care
Recommended aftercare, skincare, and MedSpa services for Breast Implant Removal (Explant).
- Compression bra continuously for 4 weeks
- Lymphatic drainage massage starting week 2 to reduce residual edema
- Sleep elevated for 2 weeks
- Massage breasts gently from week 4 to encourage tissue redrape
- Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy to support healing when recommended
- Medical-grade silicone sheeting on incision
- SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic for scar healing
- Body hydration protocol while skin retracts
- SPF 50+ on incisions for 12 months
- Indiba radiofrequency for skin tightening as tissue retracts
- Laser or microneedling starting at 3 months if additional tightening needed
- Lymphatic drainage weekly for the first month
- Aftercare
Hyperbaric oxygen series extended to 10–15 sessions for bilateral tissue support.
Bilateral procedures heal more reliably with sustained HBOT.
Why this approach
The decisions that shaped this surgical plan.
- Bilateral approach chosen to keep the planning, the tissue response, and the aesthetic outcome consistent between sides.
Pre-op preparation
What to do before surgery. Specific to this case.
- Discontinue blood thinners (NSAIDs, aspirin, fish oil, vitamin E) two weeks out. Acetaminophen remains safe; the full list is reviewed at pre-op.
- No nicotine for 6 weeks before through 6 weeks after surgery. The vascular impact directly affects skin healing.
- No overhead clothing for 3 weeks. Stock front-zip tops, supportive sports bras (post-clearance), and the drain pouches we provide.
- Confirm a driver for surgery day and a companion who can stay through the first night.
Recovery timeline
Milestones specific to this case. Individual recovery varies.
- Day 1–7
First week is the strictest activity window. Bilateral cases benefit most from staying ahead of swelling with consistent icing and rest.
- Week 2
Activity ramps up cautiously: longer walks, no lifting yet. Most patients return to desk work this week.
- Week 4
Return to most low-impact activity. Scar massage, compression, and skincare protocols pick up.
- Week 6
Standard clearance milestone. Patients return to most exercise, gym work, and sleeping in any position.
- Month 3
Shape is 80–90 percent of final. Scars are still pink and will continue to lighten through month 12.
