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

Thank you for your question.  You should ask your surgeon for specific advice.  In my practice I tell my patients that they can sleep in any position they are comfortable.  With removal alone there should not be any risk of structural damage by sleeping on the side.  Again, check with your surgeon for specifics.  

Every PS has their own protocol as to when you can sleep on your side after explant.  I generally try and have patients wait approximately a month post operatively before sleeping on side or abdomen.  Best of luck to you

After breast augmentation I recommend that patient's refrain from sleeping on this side for 3 weeks to prevent problems such as implant shift. After a straightforward breast implant removal however there would be less concern for problems related to your sleeping position. You should be able to safely sleep in any position is comfortable for you within a few days after the procedure. Be sure to follow the recommendations of your surgeon. He or she knows your particular situation best. Good luck

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