How Should You Sleep After Breast Revision Surgery?

For most women, the results of breast augmentation surgery are life-changing in a variety of positive ways — from reversing the unwanted side effects of aging or breastfeeding to boosting their confidence and self-esteem. However, there are some situations when the outcome of breast augmentation is not ideal or when complications arise at a later time. While these cases are relatively rare, they can occur, and it's important for women to understand what their options are for correcting an irregularity and achieving a more desirable look.

At Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery, board-certified Dallas, TX plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe performs breast revision surgery to help women who are unhappy with the results of their original breast augmentation surgery, have developed a breast implant complication, or simply want to have their breast implants replaced or removed. To ensure a successful breast revision procedure, it is critical that patients follow Dr. Dauwe's aftercare instructions closely, which may include adjusting their sleeping position. Learn more about the proper sleeping position after breast revision surgery here, why it matters, and when you may be able to return to your normal routines.

What happens during breast revision surgery?

Breast revision surgery typically involves removing or replacing breast implants, whether to address a breast implant complication, to correct a previous surgical error, or to align with the patient's personal preferences. Some of the most common reasons for breast revision surgery include:

• Capsular contracture
• Poor cosmetic outcome after original breast augmentation
• Change in personal preference
• Switch from saline to silicone gel implants (or vice-versa)
• Bottoming out
• Implant rippling
• Symmastia
• Breast implant rupture or leak

For breast revision, Dr. Dauwe may be able to use the original incision sites to minimize resultant scarring. Through these incisions, the damaged implants may be removed and replaced, and additional techniques may be used to correct any other irregularities that may be present. A breast lift may also be performed as part of breast revision surgery to address loose skin and sagging breasts.

What should I expect during breast revision recovery?

The recovery after breast revision surgery is usually shorter and easier than recovery after a primary breast augmentation, though the specific details of recovery will vary from patient to patient based on unique factors about their case. In most cases, patients are able to resume the majority of their daily activities and enjoy their preliminary results within 2 – 3 weeks, with some residual swelling that will continue to resolve over the following weeks. During this time, patients should be sure to follow breast revision aftercare instructions closely to ensure their healing is as complete, efficient, and successful as possible. These instructions will include avoiding strenuous exercise and heavy lifting, among others.

What's the best way to sleep after a breast revision?

Generally speaking, patients should plan to sleep on their back with their upper body slightly elevated following breast revision surgery. This helps to reduce swelling and prevent pressure or tension on the healing tissues and incisions, while also keeping patients more comfortable. In most cases, patients can safely return to sleeping on their front or side after about 3 – 6 weeks or when cleared by Dr. Dauwe. By adhering to your breast revision aftercare guidelines closely, you can help avoid healing delays and start enjoying your newly enhanced look sooner.

Unhappy with your breast implants? Consider breast revision surgery in Dallas, TX

Whatever the reason for your breast revision surgery, our caring team is here to help you get the look you want and the confidence you deserve. For more information on your options for Dallas, TX breast implant revision surgery, call Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery to schedule your private consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe today.