10lb weight gain after lift with breast implants - is that normal?

Question

I got a lift with implants on 9/13/17. I’ve gained 10 lbs since then and can’t seem to lose it. Is that normal and when should I start shedding some weight? I eat healthy, drink fluids, and work out. Help!

Joshua Kreithen, MD · Answer

Dear Madysmommy,
The average American gains 5-10 pounds between Halloween and New Years!  Regardless, it's also normal to gain weight during a surgical recovery period due to decreased activity, which can also lead to a slower metabolism. There can be other factors too, such as endocrine (thyroid, hormonal levels) that change... so consider having a primary care check up if you are not losing weight despite healthy eating and exercise.  Good luck and hope this helps!

Ross Blagg, MD · Answer

Hello, There can be several reasons for this. People do tend to retain water after surgery but then some patients get out of their normal workout routine for recovery and that can have an effect. Chat with your surgeon about it and he/she can help guide you.All the best!Dr. BlaggAustin, TX

Luis M. Rios Jr., MD · Answer

I can see how frustrating your situation is since you workout and try to live a healthy lifestyle.For most active patients, the initial weight gain after surgery is temporary. There are some things that happen around the time of surgery that result in weight gain.It is usual to gain some weight the first few weeks after surgery due to water retention from the release of natural hormones during surgery. After abut 2-3 weeks, your body will release that fluid. Some patients also gain weight because they are not allowed to resume full activity for 6 weeks. But most active patients can lose this weight quickly once they resume normal activity.After 4 months, I cannot think of any reason a breast lift with implants could be preventing you from losing the extra 10 lbs. Remember, the implants themselves could be adding 1-2 lbs.My advice is to work this problem on two fronts. At home, keep a diary of the calories you consume vs. the amount of activity you do during a day. A fitness tracker, like fitbit, might help you determine the amount of calories you burn in a day. Do this to verify that you are burning more calories than you are consuming. If you don't see a difference, discuss this with your plastic surgeon. He may suggest blood tests for your thyroid and a good physical exam with your OBGYN or Medical Internist. If everything checks out with your health, he might refer you to a medical weight loss clinic.Good Luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It can take 4-6 months to get back to normal. Sometimes this is related to swelling, and sometimes this is related to diet and exercise.

10lb weight gain after lift with breast implants - is that normal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Weight after surgery

Answer: Weight after surgery

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

10lb weight gain after lift with breast implants - is that normal?

Answers (4)

Answer: Weight after surgery

Answer: Weight after surgery

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.