Passive sex after breast augmentation?

Let's be clear. We're talking about sex . . . er, breast surgery, and the question is what degree of activity (any kind, but more about specifics later) will lead to bleeding and re-operation. Every surgeon will have their own recommendations regarding activity after surgery, and willingness to accept risk of bleeding and re-operation is different with each of us. Sex can be very "active," and blood pressure and pulse elevation, as well as manipulation of the breasts, may cause bleeding. But if "very passive and careful" sex has not caused bleeding thus far, you are lucky, or really have been passive and careful.Any damage you would have caused would be visible (significant swelling--usually double on the side that bleeds) and does not "go away." So relax, take a deep breath, and keep on being careful. You can stop being passive at 4 weeks from surgery, unless active sex involves use of a trapeze--then wait 6 weeks! You could certainly avoid ANY further sex until you ask your surgeon in two weeks, but I think I detect a hint of pride in reporting you were a "bad girl." There really is no "rule" about sex after surgery, just good common sense in trying to avoid complications (or "getting away with" at least someone's ideas about "misbehavior"). Remember, you must use your new breasts' powers for good! Best regards! Dr. Tholen

Best to wait 3 weeks before having sexual relations. Even passive sex can cause an increase in blood pressure, blood flow and may result in a hematoma. No more exercise then a mild walk is best. Ask your plastic surgeon. Having done it, I would not give it a second thought unless you had an increase in pain in one breast.

Thanks for your email. My colleagues have addressed your concerns correctly. The main things to avoid early after your surgery for about three to four weeks is pressure on top of your breasts, a lot of bouncing (such as in jogging, power walking, horseback riding, or motor boating), and an elevation in blood pressure or heart rate. If you follow these principles you should be ok. Just be aware that there are physiologic changes in your body that occur during sex that are beyond your controlled, including elevated heart rate and blood pressure, that can potentially impact on your surgical outcome in terms of increased swelling or even bleeding if sex is undertaken very early after surgery. Good luck. 

In the first weeks after an invasive surgical procedure the risk for bleeding through an increase in heart rate and blood pressure is high, and it is best to avoid any strenuous activity.  Assuming you have not seen a material change in the appearance of your breasts all is likely well, but discuss this with your surgeon so that they can follow you closely to ensure uncomplicated healing.  Best wishes.

I tell my patients to limit exertion for the first 3-4 weeks after surgery. Sex also should be considering exertion as well.  Common sense will dictate in many ways what you can do.