Case #1568 · Culver City, CA
Breast Implant Removal (Explant)
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This patient had health problems including GI problems and was diagnosed with multiple autoimmune deficiencies and other issues. Dr. Cassileth performed bilateral removal of breast implants.
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
Bilateral HBOT protocol, 10–15 sessions over the first 6 weeks.
Bilateral procedures heal more reliably with sustained HBOT.
- Skincare
Aggressive sun protection on incision lines through the first 12 months.
Younger skin pigments scars more reliably under sun exposure.
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.
- Aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E, and fish oil discontinued 14 days pre-op to reduce bruising risk. Acetaminophen is allowed.
- Full nicotine cessation 6 weeks pre- and post-op. This includes vapes and nicotine replacement products; the constriction effect is the same.
- Arrange button-front or zip-front tops for the first three weeks, overhead reaching is restricted. A drain holder or apron is provided.
- Day-of transport and an overnight companion (24 hours minimum) are required for discharge.
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
Walking distance doubles. Showering rules relax. Compression garments transition to the long-wear schedule.
- Week 4
Return to most low-impact activity. Scar massage, compression, and skincare protocols pick up.
- Week 6
Most physical restrictions lift. Return to strength training, full-impact cardio, and overhead lifting.
- Month 3
Shape is 80–90 percent of final. Scars are still pink and will continue to lighten through month 12.
