How Soon Can I Swim After a Breast Reduction/lift?

Patients are
eager to return to normal activity as soon as possible following cosmetic
surgery.Unfortunately, returning to
normal activity too soon can result in an increased potential for complications.
Swimming and time in the jacuzzi are both activities that could potentially
have negative consequences if resumed too soon.Theoretically, once the skin edges
have sealed in about 48 hours following surgery, these activities can be
resumed.In reality, small absorbable
interrupted sutures may break through the skin and become exposed.In this situation infection could occur in a
patient who is submerged in a jacuzzi, pool, pond, or ocean.Each of these environments may have unique
bacteria that may be antibiotic resistant.In addition, plastic surgeons generally don’t
recommend resumption of strenuous activities for a least six weeks following
breast reduction.Swimming can create
significant strain on the core muscles and should therefore be avoided in the
immediate post-operative period.It’s important to remember that
every patient’s procedure and post-operative course is unique.For these reasons, make sure you consult your
plastic surgeon before getting into the water.It’s important to remember that
every patient’s procedure and post-operative course is unique.For these reasons, make sure you consult your
plastic surgeon before getting into the water.

Provided all the wounds are healed so that there is no site where bugs can get in to cause infection 4 weeks is the time frame I quote patients. When you stay in the water your fingers and toes absorb water and become crinkly. Same could happen to your scars and it can then become macerated which creates open wound which then become a portal of entry for bugs. It would be a great shame to have that happen and a month seems like relatively doable goal for most women.
Wishing you the best in your journey.
Dr Leo Kim, Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Sydney 

 I recommend my patients to wait at least 4 weeks before returning to swimming. You must feel fit to return and incisions must be completely healed before submerging into water .