It depends on whether you have a subglandular, subfascial, or dual plane/submuscular breast augmentation, and it depends on the location of your incision. In a general sense, it takes about 6 weeks for your tissue to gain 50% of the strength it will ultimately have when you are fully healed (which occurs at approximately 1 year from surgery). When your tissue reaches 50% strength, it is strong enough to withstand basic activities of daily living. Hence, many surgeons recommend waiting 6 weeks before engaging in strenuous activities after surgery. When implants are placed under muscle or partially under muscle (dual plane), the implant may shift with muscle activity which can place greater strain on the incision if the incision is under the breast. So, heavy lifting is not recommended. In this circumstance, I recommend no lifting greater than 10 lbs for 6 weeks after surgery. Lifting items weighing less that that is permissible. If your job will accommodate your needs, you can return to work 1 week after surgery. If not, 6 weeks off is recommended.