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Will I Be Able to Lift Weights After Reconstruction with Implants?

asked 9 months ago by fiddleplayer in Jefferson, GA
Latest answer by David Bogue, MD
Question viewed 363 times
Tags: complication, mastectomy, weight lifting

I currently lift weights and play the violin and am worried about the alteration of the pectoral muscle involved in placing the implants. I am 4 yrs past bilateral mastectomy. Do you foresee any problems with prolonged periods of playing the violin, or lifting weights?

4 answers to Will I Be Able to Lift Weights After Reconstruction with Implants?

+2

Lifting weights after breast reconstruction with implants.

The elevation of the pectoralis muscles for placement of expanders and implants in breast reconstruction should not alter the function significantly. The muscle excursion is increased by the placement of the implant, however, most women do not notice a change in overall strength. I have had several patients who are fitness trainers, rock climbers, musicians, etc. and with exercise, the pectoralis strength has not been an issue.
David Bogue, MD

Boca Raton Plastic Surgeon

www.drbogue.com

+1

You have the option of the Autologous reconstruction

If you are a candidate for the auotologous reconstruction,you can use your own fatty tissue from lower abdomen or inner thigh for the breast reconstruction.
Kamran Khoobehi, MD

New Orleans Plastic Surgeon
+1

Post breast reconstruction recovery

Dear fiddlerplayer, Best not to fiddle around with weight lifting for 5-6 weeks post op. I would bet your surgeon will have feelings depending on his planned procedure as to when you can get back to your violin. Four years is a long wait. Good luck
Craig Harrison, MD

Tyler Plastic Surgeon
+1

Physical activity after breast reconstruction with implants

After mastectomy for cancer, there is thin tissue coverage and so the pectoral muscle is typically used to cover the upper portion of the implant, and an Alloderm graft is used to support the bottom and sides where the pectoral muscle doesn't reach. This would have an effect on weight training and it would be inadvisable I think to develop the pecs with implants under. There may be an option to use Alloderm or Strattice to cover the upper part of the implant and leave the muscle... more
Richard Baxter, MD

Seattle Plastic Surgeon

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