How long after breast explant (no replacement) should one typically wait before trying to sleep on their side?

You'll need to check with your own PS for the specifics of your surgery, including post-operative recommendations.In general, though, assuming there are no complications, you should be able to sleep on your side within a few days of surgery.  That's also assuming that you had no pain in doing so.If the surgery was more complicated (replacement of implants, lift, capsulectomies, etc) and/or you still have drains in place, then you can expect to wait longer.  And, of course, you may plan to sleep on your back and wake up to find you've moved onto your side, so you're not truly in control of even this to the degree that you might imagine.I hope that this helps and good luck,Dr. Alan EnglerMember of #RealSelf100@RealSelf