How Quickly Can I Return to Being Active After Breast Augmentation? | Richard K. Lee, M.D. (2024)

FAQs

How Quickly Can I Return to Being Active After Breast Augmentation? | Richard K. Lee, M.D.? ›

Once you are a month out of surgery, it is generally safe to resume moderate exercise. That being said, always wait until Dr. Lee tells you it is safe to incorporate a specific activity back into your routine. Depending on how quickly you heal, you may need to wait a little longer for certain exercises.

At a month most patients can resume most exercise except heavy lifting. At six weeks, patients are generally completely healed and can resume all exercises. After breast augmentation, especially with implants under the muscle, I recommend patients try to avoid strenuous chest exercise such as push ups.

Typically, most women need to recover for 1 to 2 weeks before they are ready to resume their normal routine but can be back to work within 3-5 Days. You'll get the best results from your breast augmentation if you give your body enough time to heal.

If your job requires more activity, your doctor will recommend taking two weeks or more off work to ensure your body is getting adequate time to heal. Giving your body enough time to rest will make you feel more comfortable and alert once you begin your usual work routine.

Exercises that put too much stress on the upper body can compromise your result and may increase the risk of displacement or malposition of the implant. Strenuous activity too soon after surgery may also increase the risk of postsurgical bleeding, which could warrant additional surgery.

For at least 2 weeks after your breast augmentation, you should avoid lifting. This will allow your body to heal and lower risk of bleeding or moving of the implants. Ideally we ask you to wait until 6 weeks after surgery to lift anything heavy, but we also know the reality of life with a toddler.

It is a common misconception that breast augmentation is extremely painful and requires a lot of time off from work. Though each patient recovers differently, most feel capable of getting back to non-exertional (sedentary) work within just 10-14 days.

Recovery time for breast cancer surgery

Lumpectomy: Most people can get back to day-to-day activities within 5–10 days. Mastectomy: People may feel back to themselves 3–4 weeks after surgery. Mastectomy with reconstruction: This procedure has the longest recovery time, and takes up to 6–8 weeks.

Generally speaking, you shouldn't consider going braless for at least six weeks after breast augmentation. Your breasts need to be thoroughly supported during this time to ensure optimal healing. After six weeks, you may occasionally go braless, but try to keep this to special occasions, and don't make it a habit.

Do not do any strenuous exercise such as contact sports, jogging, tennis, sexual activity, or body conditioning (weightlifting, push-ups, sit-ups, etc.) for at least two months after you go home. Talk to your hepatobiliary doctor or nurse before you resume these types of activities.

How long is bed rest after breast implants? ›

Getting enough sleep will help you recover. For about 4 to 6 weeks, avoid lifting anything that would make you strain. This may include heavy grocery bags and milk containers, a heavy briefcase or backpack, cat litter or dog food bags, a vacuum cleaner, or a child. Do not lift anything over your head for 2 to 3 weeks.

Signs of Torn Internal Stitches

Sudden spike of pain in or around your surgical site. Persistent fever, chills, and exhaustion. Redness or irritation around your incision. Unusual swelling or bulging near the surgical site.

If you don't let your body rest and have time to heal, you will either 1. delay your healing, so it will take longer to get back to your full force life, or 2. CAUSE A BLEED. I have been in practice for almost 20 years now, done hundreds of breast surgeries, and I have had a handful of bleeds.

It is advisable to avoid the following actions or activities for at least two weeks or more after surgery: Avoid smoking or drinking alcohol until fully healed because these substances can interfere with the medications you may be taking. Avoid sports, amusem*nt park rides, and bending over.

Working out too soon can cause the implants to shift, which can make the breasts appear asymmetrical. It can also increase side effects, such as swelling and bruising. Don't allow your eagerness to work out throw off your recovery.

You could receive the all-clear to sleep on your sides as early as two weeks after breast augmentation. However, you may be advised to wear a special bra to support your chest. After roughly four to six weeks, you should be able to resume sleeping on your stomach.

This means weightlifting should be postponed until 6-8 weeks after surgery. Getting the green light from the surgeon at a follow-up visit can ensure the body is ready for this type of movement.

Avoid strenuous weight lifting or intense cardio such as sprinting until your surgeon advises it is safe. Even when completely healed, wear bras with plenty of support during exercise with implants.

Usually, with over the muscle implant placement, there is no limitation on chest exercises after the 6 week clearance. Secondly, how physically active are you now? Implants should not impede you from having an active lifestyle but it is important to communicate to your doctor what your exercise routine is like.

Although there's no harm in light fondling, be mindful that your breasts will be sensitive to touch for up to 3 weeks after surgery. And remember, there's nothing wrong with keeping your compression bra on. When else would you get away with wearing a comfy bra during sex?