Will I be able to play basketball again after having Implants?

Question

Hi just wondering will it be safe for me to play basketball again? I plan on waiting at least 6 weeks before I do any exercise!

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

For my patients I recommend no heavy lifting or working out for 4 weeks. Each surgeon will have their post surgical protocol they wish their patients to follow. I would suggest speaking with your surgeon and following their recommendations.

Finny George, MD · Answer

Hi, thank you for your question. 
I generally recommend that my patients avoids sports for 8 weeks after the operation. High impact sports (as can be the case with basketball, sometimes) should be approached with caution as the position of the implants and the integrity of the shell can be altered. 
Consult with your board certified plastic surgeon before resuming any sports-related activities. 
Best of luck!

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

While you’ll be able to play basketball again after breast augmentation, when you can start playing again all depends on your recovery rate and surgeon’s advice. Each surgeon has their own guidelines on post-surgery exercise and physical activity, so it’s best to ask your surgeon for their advice.

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question! Yes, you will be able to play basketball after surgery. You would be doing the right thing by waiting 6 weeks. I would discuss this with your surgeon to ensure no additional time will be needed! You just need to ensure you don't have any direct blunt trauma to your breasts to prevent any complications! Ensure you wear a nice supportive athletic bra to prevent your breasts from bottoming out.

John K. Wakelin III, MD, FACS · Answer

I recommend following your surgeon's recommendations regarding activity after your surgery.  However, you should absolutely be able to be active and play basketball after your recovery period.  Best of luck to you!

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I advise my patients that sports are great starting at six weeks. Always a good idea to check with your surgeon's protocol.Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee

Ira H. Rex III, MD · Answer

In almost any situation, women may return to normal activity after breast augmentation. There are many excellent bras on the market that should give you the support you need.

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Yes, you can play basketball. I think waiting the 6 weeks will be sufficient. You will need to be careful with any overhead movements for the first couple months and definitely need to be careful with any full contact movements.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

In an uncomplicated breast augmentation with no lift component or difficulties, most plastic surgeons will allow a patient to resume strenuous sports activities at 6 weeks.  Ultimately, your plastic surgeon has to provide the clearance.  Be sure to wear a good support sports bra.

Edwin C. Pound, III, MD · Answer

You should have no problems doing any physical activity that you want to do following breast augmentation surgery.  The implants should not impede your movements at all.  If you are concerned about falling and breaking an implant then that could certainly happen but implants are pretty tough.  I have a friend who posted a video of him driving his car over an implant and it did not break.  If, worst case scenario, one was to break, it can always be replaced.