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When is exercising OK after breast reduction?

Hello, I just had a breast reduction surgery and want to exercise. At 2 weeks post op, is it OK to do light exercise? Like a workout "dance video" at home? Or a daily "squats" challenge? I don't like sitting idle not being able to exercise. Prior to my breast reduction I had lost about 35-40 lbs to get closer to my goal and I don't want to lose momentum. I have no leaking, no soreness, no pain, and a tad swelling still. Is it safe to do light workouts so soon?

Doctor Answers 7

March 11th, 2016

Exercise after Surgery

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I would hold off on exercise a little while longer.  I recommend that all my patients keep their heart rate under 100 for at least 3 weeks following surgery.  Then after those 3 weeks I recommend starting with light exercise then waiting until at least 6 weeks to do any strenuous exercise.  Every surgeon is different so please refer to your specific doctors instructions.  
Michael L. Workman, MD


Portland Plastic Surgeon
4.7 out of 5 stars 39 reviews

March 10th, 2016

Exercise after breast reduction

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Thank you for your question. I recommend speaking with your surgeon regarding his post operative instructions. I usually recommend waiting 4-6 weeks following breast reduction surgery to start excerise. 
Dennis Hurwitz, MD, FACS

Dennis Hurwitz, MD, FACS
Pittsburgh Plastic Surgeon
4.6 out of 5 stars 36 reviews

March 9th, 2016

Exercise After Breast Reduction

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Thank you very much for your question.

Every surgeon has their own protocol regarding postoperative activity.  I recommend you contact your surgeon's office and see what their thoughts are, as they can provide the most individualized recommendations to you.  Best of luck!

Daniel Krochmal, MD
Chicago General Surgeon

March 8th, 2016

Exercising post breast reduction

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In my office, patients are instructed to wait for 3-4 weeks prior to beginning a light work out routine.  High Cardio or strenuous activities are recommended to wait until 6 weeks post op.  Contacting your treating physician and following their recommendations is a good idea as every surgeon is different.  

Best wishes,

Learn more: http://murphyplasticsurgery.com/

Terrence Murphy, MD

Terrence Murphy, MD
Englewood Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 34 reviews

March 8th, 2016

When is exercising OK after breast reduction?

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In my practice, patients usually are able to start light exercise around 3-4 weeks and strenuous activity by 6 weeks.  Be sure to check with your surgeon about specific instructions in your case.  Surgeons will differ in their postoperative instructions.  Good luck!

Learn more: http://www.farrismd.com/breast-procedures-dallas/breast-reduction/

Zachary Farris, MD, FACS

Zachary Farris, MD, FACS
Dallas Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 23 reviews

March 8th, 2016

Resuming exercising after breast reduction.

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Specific instruction should come only from your own surgeon. In my practice patients can resume walking immediately after the procedure. After the sutures are out aerobic exercise is permitted provided the breasts are completely stable on the chest wall. This would include an exercise bike or something of the sort. After six weeks, provided there is no healing issues more vigorous physical activity can be undertaken provided the breasts are well supported by a bra. She

Learn more: http://www.zubowicz.com/procedures/breast-reduction/

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD
March 8th, 2016

Exercising after breast reduction

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I usually allow my patients to gradually start resuming strenuous physical activity (like exercise) about 2-3 weeks after a breast reduction if their recovery has been uneventful. However, every surgeon will have a different post-operative protocol and may have concerns specific to your surgery and circumstances.  For these reasons, I recommend that you discuss resuming your workout schedule with your surgeon.  Good luck!
Anureet K. Bajaj, MD

Anureet K. Bajaj, MD
Oklahoma City Plastic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 21 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.