Can I Do Squats a Week After Surgery?

It may be a little too early to start doing squats just a week out. You should probably wait until about 3 weeks after surgery, then 6 weeks for upper body training.

Best to rely on your plastic surgeon and his/her office.  Surgeons may have different regimens.  Our office typically tells patients the next step each time they come into the office.  We have some very fit patients, (fitness competitors, triathletes, etc;).  Listen to the surgeon and listen to your body.  If you feel something is wrong, or is something hurts, stop.  Again, call your plastic surgeon's office.  They should be able to give you a little guidance.

In general, one can resume most exercise within 3 weeks and vigorous exercise by 4 weeks. You should consult with your Plastic Surgeon before proceeding with heavy exercise.

Every doctor has his/her own protocol for resuming activities following surgery.  You should consult your plastic surgeon for his/her answers to these questions.  In my practice, I allow my patients to resume non-strenuous activities whenever they feel up to it and more strenuous activities after three weeks.

Breast augmentation patients in my practice are asked to rest the chest wall four weeks after the operation. Squats are permissible provided there is no motion of the chest wall which would jostle the implants.

Your plastic surgeon can give you the best advice on your recovery.  I advise my breast augmentation patients to avoid any strenuous exercise for at least two weeks to prevent any bleeding around the operative site.  I also recommend the use of a surgical bra or sports bra for the first few weeks mostly due to comfort issues.  Good luck!

    As a bodybuilder, I know the temptation to get to the gym is great.  You need at least 2 weeks before doing strenuous exercise, particularly the pressure increasing exercises like squats.  Walking is OK.  The last thing you want to do is get a hematoma and then have another surgery, possibly compromising your final results.

General exercise is typically ok, but restricting any lifting and reaching activities. I usually have my patients wear their surgical bra for two weeks or more, depending on their individual situation. Underwire bras can typically be worn a month or more after surgery -- again depending on your individual situation.

Thank you,

Dr. A. Michael Sadove

 

Typically, I advise my breast augmentation patients that they will need to take approximately 3-4 weeks off physical activity while they allow for adequate healing. After this point generally, walking and spinning are allowed. Restrictions are generally lifted after 8 weeks and the patient is allowed to then begin light weight lifting, pushups,  and running (with a supported bra).

 

The supportive bra generally serves a purpose so I advise patients in the consultation to be prepared to wear their bra for approximately 3 weeks. This time frame will vary depending on if the breast augmentation was done in conjuction with a mastopexy. I would recommend following up with your plastic surgeon or his office staff before switching to an underwire bra or beginning physical activity.

 

I hope this helps you and good luck

 

Fadi Chahin MD, FACS

Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Diplomat, American Board of Surgery

Diplomat, American Board of Plastic Surgery

I usually advise my patients to hold off on excessive physical activity for at least 3 weeks.  I would continue to wear the surgical bra until you can speak with your surgeon- you can't wear that "too long".  As for an underwire, if you have an incision under your breast I would hold off on that for at least a month to allow your incision to heal.