How Soon Can I Start Exercising After Breast Surgery

A large percentage of my patients who have primary breast augmentation surgery in my Beverly Hills practice live a very active lifestyle. Their physical activities range from cardiovascular/aerobic exercises to muscular workouts. One of the questions that I get asked the most prior to scheduling a breast augmentation or revision surgery is, “When can I return to my daily exercise routine?”

My advice to them is to take it slow, starting out with light walks, nothing strenuous around the home; this is great for the circulation of blood flow and helps prevent blood clots. After two weeks, most patients can start slowly increasing cardio such as walking on a treadmill. After about one month, most patients can resume their normal exercise routine, except for the heavy lifting. At the six-week mark, patients are typically completely healed and can resume most activities.

I would recommend patients to avoid strenuous chest exercises, such as push ups or weights for an extended period. Since implants are mostly placed under the muscle, patients need to ensure that they are not putting pressure on them. As a general rule, patients need to listen to their bodies and stop exercising if it is causing swelling or discomfort, giving the body a little more time to heal before returning to that activity.

I also sincerely encourage all women to use a good supportive bra when exercising and to obtain my permission before starting any physical activity.