Breast Reduction: Q&A

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How Soon After Breast Reduction Can I Do Downhill Skiing?

I had breast reduction surgery 2 weeks ago. I am doing well, no pain, no issue. My surgical tape is still in place. I have walked at a 4mph pace, elliptical machined (no arm usage), and have stationary biked (upright posture, kept weight on arms/chest to a minimum). Family is going downhill skiing in 2 days. I want to go too. I'm a competent skier (1 fall in 3 years, ice), would stay on bunny hill with kids, and can leave poles behind so I don't use arms/chest. Too soon?

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6 Doctor Answers | Asked by Schmoopette

Doctor Answers (6)
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Activity after breast reduction surgery

Even thought the wounds may appear healed, they do not have a lot of strength at this point. Skiing can be strenuous and you can not be certain you will not fall. I would not recommend skiing until after 6 weeks, but consult your surgeon for his or her advice.

Skiing after Breast Reduction

Skin healing starts to plateau between 4 and 6 week and so most surgeons recommend light activity for the first 6 weeks. You can check with your plastic surgeon but I would not recommend skiing at this time. If you fall, you may open the incision.

Breast Reduction

You sound pretty active. I'll bet you feel a lot better after your procedure with less weight to cause a skeletal imbalance! I tell my patients they can resume normal vigorous exercise 3 weeks after their breast reduction if they have normal healing. However, if they might receive a "hit" like in basketball game, or suffer a "fall' like in downhill skiing, then I advise them to wait six weeks. Cross-country or Nordic skiing on a level plane... more

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Breast reduction and skiing

I usually have my paitents avoid aerobic activity for 3-4 weeks and strenuous workouts heavy lifting, etc.. for 6-8 weeks. This question is something you shoudl ask your surgeon.

Steven Wallach, MD

13 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Breast reduction and Skiing?

Congratulations on having undergone the breast reduction surgery; it is one of the most patient pleasing operations we perform. It will be interesting to see if you are a better skiier after the surgery. Always best to check with your own plastic surgeon regarding activity level; personally, I would suggest at least 6 to 8 weeks before this type of strenuous, potentially traumatic activity. Best wishes.

Skiing After Breast Reduction

Using your arms and poling while skiing isn't really the issue. The concern is a fall, whether your fault or another skiier or boarder runs into you, could possibly make the wounds pop open and that would not be good on the mountain. I would say 6 weeks minimum before considering that.

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Breast Reduction: Q&A