When can I swim after breast augmentation?

Question

I am exactly one week post op after my breast augmentation. My doctor said after day 3 I could shower like normal. He has not said anything about soaking in water, however. Can I get into a salt water swimming pool?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,I ask my Breast Augmentation Patients to avoid swimming pools, hot tubs and baths for two weeks post op in order to ensure we reduce the risk of infection as much as possible. I recommend that you ask your Plastic Surgeon what they recommend for you as each Surgeon has their own preferred Post Op Protocols.All the best

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. Its early to talk about results and to swim.In my practice, after performing a BA I recommend to my patients to limit the movement of the arms for two weeks. After that, you can move your arms taking care and always with common sense. In this regard, it's not advisable to carry heavy weights to prevent the implant out of position, and allow the formation of the physiological capsule around the implant, also to avoid pain and breast swelling.Kind regards,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol.-

Deborah Sillins, MD · Answer

I would ask your surgeon his protocol. I normally tell my patients they can shower in 48 hours but can not submerge in water for 4 weeks that includes swimming.

Michael A. Epstein, MD, FACS · Answer

Great question, it's a very common one.  I would ask your doctor about their recommendations regarding activity postoperatively.  Most doctors will allow showering soon after surgery as this keeps the skin clean and the wound is essentially water-tight at that point.  However, soaking in water early can weaken that water-tight seal and allow bacteria to creep in, so many surgeons recommend waiting weeks to soak in water to make sure the incision is fully closed and there is an established capsule around the implant for extra protection.Again, I would contact your surgeon to ask their preference for you.  Best of luck!

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your surgery.  Though my patients can shower with 48 hours of surgery I ask that they refrain from submerging their incisions for at least 4 weeks to minimize the risk of possible complications.  Speak to your surgeon about the full details of your procedure during your follow up visit, they can offer you the best individualized recommendation.

Michael Horn, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. It is always best to discuss all post-op instructions with your surgeon. However, I personally instruct my patients to wait two full weeks before fully submerging their breast in water. Happy healing!

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

It is always best to check with your surgeon as to what their protocol is.  Some allow showering early but hold off on submerging the breast for longer to be sure the incisions have been evaluated and are fully closed.  You doctor is in the best position to advise you about how that practice handles this.

Benjamin J. Cousins, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, and I wish you a speedy recovery! It is best
to discuss with your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon his/her specific
recommendations as far as return to activity. The recovery after BA surgery
varies widely from patient to patient as well as their level of discomfort
during this time. Generally, the first 4-7 days are reserved for rest and
overall recovery, and after that patients can slowly work their way back with
gradual low risk activities. I like to wait at least 1 month for swimming, and I prefer to wait at least 6-8 weeks for
repetitive upper body lifting/movements and arm use so that the muscles,
skin incisions and breast tissues have had adequate time to heal and
settle before being stressed. The recovery routine will best be determined
by your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon so be sure to touch base with him/her
on their specific recommendations.
Benjamin J. Cousins MD
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Bahair Ghazi, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your surgery. I usually recomend no swimming for at least 2 weeks after our initial surgery. This prevents any possibility of water borne bacterial infections. After this time your body has healed enough to not be a great concern. Swimming in chlorine pools or saltwater is ok afterwards. I ask all my patients to avoid freshwater for all least 8 weeks as these waters tend to harbor more contaminanats.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the breast augmentation procedure. Your plastic surgeon will be in the best position to guide you in regards to activity resumption after breast  augmentation surgery. From the healing standpoint most patients are able to swim again starting 3 to 6 weeks  after surgery. Best wishes.

When can I swim after breast augmentation?

Answers (13)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

Change plastic surgeons? Rude and condescending.

How likely am I to die during breast augmentation surgery?

I took plan B a week and one day before my breast augmentation. Will I be okay or should I reschedule?

Can wearing a padded or push-up sports bra after a breast augmentation help you to heal with permanent cleavage? (Photo)

Is a 10 day course of Keflex necessary for prophylaxis after breast augmentation?

Question on fainting 1 week after breast augmentation?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS