True that I will not be able to lift anything for 1-2 months after surgery?

I want to get Breast implants but don't know what to do about returning back to work after surgery. I heard many opinions and would like to get more. I currently work in a hospital, on geriatrics unit as a nursing assistant, which involves washing and turning patients. I'm also a single mother to a 2 yr old. Is it true that I will not be able to lift anything for 1-2 months after surgery?

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6 answers to “True that I will not be able to lift...”

A: Follow your plastic surgeon's advice

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD

Follow the advice of your plastic surgeon as far as activities following a breast augmentation. For my patients I allow light lifting for the first week, up to 15 pounds. I believe that it is most important to restrict activities that make the breast bounce up and down. This includes high impact aerobics,... more

A: Lifting considerable weight possible a week after surgery

Kenneth R. Francis, MD

Young Mommy, Well, you got the whole spectrum of answers with this question. Every plastic surgeon has their own protocols for their post operative breast augmentation patients. And even these protocols can be violated to accommodate work and family responsibilities. In general, you will NOT FEEL like lifting... more

A: Full activities resume 4 weeks after breast augmentation

David A. Dreyfuss, MD

While most Plastic Surgeons don't want any heavy lifting during the post operative period, we all make allotments for work issues. The general management is no lifting the first week. Increasing activity for the next 3 weeks. Then full lifting or activity after 4 weeks.  The reality is that everyone has a... more

A: Lifting should be minimized for 3 weeks after Breast Augmentation

Brian S. Glatt, MD

First of all, you will find as many different answers to your question as there is no definite right or wrong answer to your question. It is definitely advisable to try to avoid excessive lifting after breast augmentation surgery, or any major surgery for that matter. In particular with breast implants, I... more

A: Early activity after breast augmentation recommended

William H. Huffaker, MD

I encourage early activities. I allow 25 pounds at one week and 40 pounds at two weeks.  Nurses routinely go back at 2-3 weeks. However, you still have to be careful. It is just not the lifting.  Children or patients can bump or hit your chest as well.  You should be fine.

A: Not true

Richard P. Rand, MD

While it is advisable to avoid heavy lifting after breast augmentation, gradual, balanced lifting of your children has never caused a problem in my years of practice.  I would advise you not to perform your regular daily tasks at work however and that you restrict your lifting to 20 pounds or less at work... more

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