It is not uncommon for women to want to return to the gym after breast augmentation surgery. When patients are considering plastic surgery, one of the first questions typically asked is, “When can I get back to my normal routine and exercise?” While staying active can help speed up the healing process, doing too much too soon can cause complications, even prolonging breast augmentation recovery. With new surgical techniques and implant devices, it has never been a better time to consider breast implants. Still, women must be mindful of following post-op instructions, including easing their way back into the gym.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Erick Sanchez discusses all aspects of the breast augmentation surgery to get the best results with his patients, including setting expectations for when they can begin working out after breast augmentation. His extensive training and experience, along with attention to detail, allow his patients in Baton Rouge, LA to rely on him for fantastic results. Dr. Sanchez and his dedicated staff at Sanchez Plastic Surgery are there for their patients every step of the way from start to finish. It is essential to give the body ample time to heal, leading to a smoother breast augmentation recovery and optimal results. Here is a more in-depth look at the healing process after breast augmentation and the general timeline of when patients can safely resume exercising.
How can I plan for my breast augmentation recovery?
Breast augmentation surgery is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed today. Women in Baton Rouge, LA consider breast implants to not only enhance their bodies but also to boost their self-esteem. Even though today’s breast implants are highly customizable and safer than ever, aftercare is still an essential component to keep a patient’s recovery on track. Prepping for breast augmentation recovery ahead of time is essential It is also one of the best ways to ensure a smooth, successful process. Patients should have someone lined up to drive them home and help around the house for the first 24 – 48 hours after breast augmentation. A person’s recovery space should also be organized and ready for their arrival, with easy access to items like:
- Reading material, or favorite shows ready for viewing
- Chargers for electronics
- Prescribed medications pre-filled and ready to go
- Plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Extra pillows to remain propped up while resting
- Tissues, lip balm, and snacks
- Clothes that are easy to put on and take off
How can I exercise after breast augmentation surgery?
Once Baton Rouge, LA patients return home, they should get up and move around every couple of hours to promote healthy blood circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Activities like walking around the room or home are ideal since they are not strenuous. Patients should not raise their heart rate too high, especially within the first few days. As the body begins to recover more from the stress of surgery, in about 1 – 2 weeks, a patient’s energy level will increase, allowing for more activity. After about two weeks, most patients can walk longer distances outside or return to the gym to ride a stationary bike.
About one month after breast augmentation surgery, patients can generally resume most exercise programs or lower-body workouts. Heavy lifting or upper body strength training should be avoided for about 6 – 8 weeks, or until cleared by Dr. Sanchez. Patients will need to wait about three weeks before submerging their breasts in any type of water, including swimming. Treading water or swimming laps is generally restricted for about two months or until patients are fully healed.
Listen to your body, but know your limits
Even though patients may feel like doing more during breast augmentation recovery, it may cause the opposite effect. Working out or doing too much too soon can increase bruising, swelling, and soreness. It can even create new breast implants to move, which will make them shift and look asymmetrical. The staff at Sanchez Plastic Surgery provides patients with post-op instructions and guidelines to follow after every surgical procedure. Following instructions, including how to remain active safely during the healing process, helps minimize any swelling or inflammation and reduces the risk of unnecessary complications. Easing back into exercising and following the right protocol is key to a smooth breast augmentation recovery.
If you are contemplating breast enhancement surgery, we invite you to contact Sanchez Plastic Surgery in Baton Rouge, LA today to schedule your one-on-one consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Erick Sanchez.