Undergoing breast augmentation surgery doesn’t mean that you have to abandon your fitness routine. While you’ll need to take downtime after the procedure, you’ll be able to safely ease back into physical activity. By closely following your surgeon’s post-op instructions for exercise, you can stay fit and protect the results of your breast augmentation.
If you’re wondering about how to stay in shape after breast augmentation, read on for our breast augmentation fit guide. Every patient’s recovery is different based on factors such as whether the implant was placed above or below the muscle, as well as an individual’s tolerance of the breast tissue and skin to the stretching from the implant.
Post-Op Fitness Timeline for Breast Augmentation
1 to 2 Days
In the first two days after breast augmentation, it is essential to rest. You should not be moving any more than is required to complete fundamental tasks around the house. Make sure that any movements that you make are gentle in these first few days. You should not be raising your arms any higher than shoulder level to avoid tension on the incision.
4 to 5 Days
While you can be comfortably moving around the house and performing independent self-care activities 4 to 5 days after breast augmentation surgery, you should still be following your upper body restrictions. You can move around the house and neighborhood at a casual pace to keep up blood flow throughout your body.
1 to 2 Weeks
1 to 2 weeks after breast augmentation, most patients are able to comfortably resume modest activity. At the one week mark it is safe to raise your arms overhead for functional tasks. You’ll need to continue to be gentle with your body at this time. This means that you shouldn’t excessively increase your body temperature or heart rate. Walking is great fitness for post-op recovery.
3 to 4 Weeks
3 to 4 weeks following the procedure, you’ll still need to be gentle in your cardio exercise. You may gradually increase the length of your exercise sessions to boost your stamina. However, all exercises should be low-impact, and you are advised to avoid fitness exercises that involve the upper body.
5 to 6 Weeks
At this point, you will probably have an appointment to check in on your progress. Your surgeon will let you know whether you are cleared to expand your fitness workouts and begin lower body weight training.
8 Weeks
After 8 weeks, it is generally safe for you to return to your regular fitness workout intensity. However, it is crucial to receive approval from your surgeon before doing so, as all patients heal at different rates. Upper body workouts can usually progress as tolerated.
While this guide provides an outline of what you can expect as you get back into shape after breast augmentation, you should always follow the directions provided by your plastic surgeon. If you’re unsure of whether it’s okay to perform any exercises, first consult with your surgeon.
Dr. Mosiello is a highly experienced plastic surgeon with expertise in breast augmentation surgery. Contact Tampa Palms Plastic Surgery today to learn more.
