How soon can I do cardio/exercise after brachioplasty?

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your incredible 240-pound weight loss! It’s clear that fitness is an important part of your life, and it’s great that you’re eager to get back into a routine. However, after an extended brachioplasty, it’s important to take the necessary time to heal properly before returning to physical activities.

At two weeks post-op, light walking is generally safe, and it’s a great way to gently ease back into activity without putting too much strain on your arms or surgical incisions. Walking one to two miles outside is typically fine as long as you’re not swinging your arms excessively or experiencing discomfort.

When it comes to cardio exercises like the stair master or elliptical, it’s best to wait until around 4–6 weeks post-op, depending on how your recovery progresses. These activities involve more upper body movement and can strain your healing incisions or cause unnecessary swelling. Once you’re cleared by your surgeon, you can gradually increase your duration and intensity, being mindful of your body’s response.

Sweating during exercise is generally not a concern as long as your incisions are fully healed and there’s no risk of irritation or infection. However, excessive sweating too soon could irritate incisions or prolong healing, so it’s best to wait until your surgeon confirms it’s safe to resume higher-intensity workouts.

As for weightlifting, you’re absolutely right—most surgeons recommend waiting at least 8 weeks before lifting weights to ensure your arms are fully healed. Even then, you should start with lighter weights and gradually work your way up.

To summarize:

Light walking: Safe now, just avoid overexertion.
Moderate cardio (elliptical, stair master): Typically 4–6 weeks post-op with your surgeon’s clearance.
Weightlifting: At least 8 weeks post-op, starting with light weights.
It’s essential to listen to your body and follow your surgeon’s advice to avoid setbacks. Best wishes on your continued fitness journey and recovery!

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

All patients after brachioplasty must heal completely before returning to the gym to do pull-ups, squats, push-ups, weightlifting, gymnastics, running, rowing because wound separation can occur.  I have several of my patients who are real gym goers, and, if the skin is tight after surgery, working out only helps the appearance.  The only caveat to this is if you lose a large amount of fat, this may create more loose skin.  That is why I have patients maintain a stable, healthy weight prior to surgery. Lifelong maintenance of an exercise and eating regimen will preserve the results. My recommendation would be to hold off on the strenuous activity for at least six weeks but consult your surgeon who knows how well you have healed.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Congratulations on your weight loss!  I recommend my patients wait 3 weeks before any cardio exercise and 6 weeks before other types of exercise such as yoga, pilates, or weight lifting.  At that time, I do not give limitations on the time spent exercising or amount of weight my patients can lift.  I do recommend patients start slow, listen to their bodies, and take time to build back up to the amount of time or weight they were doing before the procedure.  Just remember you will most likely not be able to pick up right where you were prior to surgery and should not expect this will be the case.  Make sure to follow up with your plastic surgeon and follow his or her recommendations.  Best of luck!