How long after breast implants can I lift and hold my baby?

I do not put any restrictions on my patients after breast augmentation surgery. You ask a common question. I placed the implants in a sub muscular position, but allow lifting as soon the patient is comfortable. The more you lift, the more sore you will be. The biggest concern about lifting a baby postoperatively is… Don't drop it!

Dear 4me2bme,I tell my patients not to lift anything more than 8lbs for at least two weeks. The majority of breast augmentation patients need one week of downtime. Depending on the work environment (heavy lifting, etc) more time off may be necessary. Patients are encouraged to walk immediately after surgery to avoid blood clots in the legs.I suggest that you follow your plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions, especially on the level of activity that you can do and your scheduled follow up checkups, for faster and recovery.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you 4me2bme for your questions.  Most of my patients are able to return to work within 24-48 hours.  I tell all my patients when dealing with their children at home is to lift more with your legs and bring the child close to them to lift.  You should be fine to do all your mom duties within the first week or so after surgery. I would consult with your surgeon and address all of your concerns. Best of luck to you. 

Protocols will vary from one physician to another. Although, it is generally recommended that heavy lifting and strenuous activity be avoided in the early post op period.In my practice (for submuscular augmentation), I recommend a 10 lb lifting restriction for the first several weeks.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS). 

My patients are lifting their babies, 20 pounds and up, by the third day after surgery to transfer them to high chairs, car seats, and cribs. They are more comfortable holding them for longer periods of time at 2 weeks. Always a good idea to check with your surgeon's protocol.Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author 

Hello. Thank you for your inquiry and congratulations on your decision!
It is important to have an in-person medical assessment regarding this issue as it is difficult to determine virtually. Continue to update your doctor in the matter and follow their post-op protocol.
It is important to get cleared by your doctor before engaging in specific physical activity before the 3 month healing period has ended as the healing stage is crucial for healthy results.
It generally takes around 6 months to a year to see your final results. Your tissues will take time to relax and allow your implants to "Drop and Fluff" settling into place.
Our tips for recovery following breast augmentation are to wear a supportive sports bra for 3 months post-operative and refrain from lifting anything heavier than 10 lbs for 3 weeks as we don't want any strain at your incision sites. Make sure to keep the area of your stitches clean by cleansing with hydrogen peroxide daily. Showering is encouraged! But, no sitting in water for 2 weeks following surgery (no baths, hot tubs, pools etc.).
Please note that this response does not substitute patient-doctor relationship. We welcome any and all patients seeking advice to come in for a complimentary consultation available for limited time only.
During the COVID-19, we are offering complimentary online consultations as well as in-office consultation with social distancing and masks. Procedure done in-hospital private surgical facility while taking covid-19 precautions. We utilize UV-light to clean the air of viruses and bacteria during our consultations and surgery. We invite you to come in to discuss your options more thoroughly. Please send us an email at info@drkaraplasticsurgery.com with the subject line: "Attention Meagan" and we will be happy to coordinate your appointment!
M.Kara,MD,FRCSC (27+ years experience) - Specializing in 24 hour recovery/ out to dinner breast augmentation in-hospital private surgical facility for your added safety and peace of mind

Thank you for your question. Recovery from breast augmentation is usually pretty uneventful. Most surgeons pride themselves in providing a rapid recovery from this ambulatory surgery. You should allow yourself at least a 5-7 days to avoid lifting so as to avoid, pain or possible hematoma (bleeding around the implant). You will be sore. This is a real operation. The surgeon is placing an implant in a space, typically under the muscle, where there previously was no space. The muscle will feel sore for several days to a week. Muscle relaxants are also helpful to help your body accommodate to the presence of the implant.
Give yourself time to recover from surgery.
Best wishes,
Dr. Morrissey