How long do I have to sleep on my back after explant removal?

Hello and thank you for your question. After you have had your breast implants removed, there is no reason why you cannot sleep face down on your chest. The only reason would be the potential discomfort from the incisions used to remove the implants. Otherwise as long as you are not having any significant pain you can lay on your chest. Hope this helps answer question.Alexander Zuriarrain, MD

Cleveland Clinic Trained Plastic Surgeon

Hi there and thanks for your question.  I advise patients to sleep on their back for the first week or so.  At 1-2 weeks you should be able to sleep in any position comfortable.  You can place pillows on your sides if that helps.  Feel better and best of luck! 

You should be able to move to a sleeping position other than your back based on your comfort.  I recommend checking first with your surgeon however, as opinions will vary and your surgeon will know what is best for you based on your surgery and recovery.

Dear harper kelley,every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for sharing your question.  Though your surgeon is in the best position to help answer this question as they know the full details of your procedure, but I would allow my patients to sleep on their side or stomach immediately, as long as they were wearing their compression garment.  Hope this helps.

Check with your surgeon, but I allow my patients to sleep in any position that is comfortable for them.

Hello and thank you for your question.   I recommend at least a week , possibly 2.   It will be more of a comfort issue for you.  Some will go from their back to their sides w pillows at each side.  

Harper,You need to clear it with your surgeon first.  I allow my patients to lie on their stomach immediately post op as long as they continue wearing the post op bra.Good luck with your healing.Dr T

It is probably best lie on your side or back for the first weak or so. Best to review with your surgeon.

As long as you wear a compression bra for a few weeks following surgery, there is no reason you can’t sleep on your side.