How soon can I lift weights after brachioplasty?

Question

Just my arms and lipo around my tummy, sides and back. How soon can I lift weights to start firming my arms up?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello backtobest, thank
you for your question. In my professional opinion, you should be able to return
back to work 2-3 weeks after an arm lift or brachioplasty . Approximately 4-6
weeks after the arm lift or brachioplasty you should be able to return to weight
training and lifting. These are just general guidelines and will depend on your
healing process. Please consult with your board certified plastic surgeon
before you resume weight lifting. Please also wear a compression garment to
minimize swelling.

Sincerely,

J.
Timothy Katzen, M.D.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

After brachioplasty (arm lift surgery), it’s important to allow time for proper healing before resuming weightlifting or other strenuous activities. In general: 
•	Weeks 1-2: You should avoid any strenuous activity, including lifting heavy objects or exercising, to prevent strain on the incisions and reduce the risk of complications. 
•	Weeks 3-4: Light activities, such as walking, may be resumed, but upper body exercises, including weightlifting, are typically still off-limits. 
•	Weeks 6-8: Depending on your healing progress and your plastic surgeon’s recommendations, you may be able to gradually reintroduce weightlifting. However, you should start with lighter weights and avoid overexerting the arms. 
Always follow your plastic surgeon’s specific guidelines, as recovery times can vary.

C. Bob Basu, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

i recommend no heavy lifting or strenuous activity for 4-5 weeks after arm lift surgery.  you need to give time for your brachioplasty (arm lift) incisions to heal.  Please talk to your PS about his/her specific recommendations.  best wishes.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

Each surgeon has his or her belief about return to activity, and each patient heals differently. While 3 - 4 weeks is the norm. Your surgeon would be the best to guide you.

John J. Edney, MD · Answer

All surgeons have their own protocol for postoperative care.  The surgeon who performed your operation is the best person to direct what is best for you.  One of the most challenging aspects of arm recontouring is the achievement of a cosmetically appealing scar.  Overactivity in the early postoperative period can adversely affect healing and result in a worse scar.  In general most people return to regular day-to-day activities within the first 2-4 weeks.  Heavy exercise would best be delayed for 6-8 weeks.

Craig W. Colville, MD, FACS · Answer

After 2-4 weeks you can usually resume normal activities, heavy lifting may require a longer period of time. All surgeons have different post op protocol so it is best to contact your surgeon to ask when you should start lifting weights again.

Anne Taylor, MD · Answer

Hello!The time you need to heal after a brachioplasty depends on multiple factors, such as your overall health and fitness level, and the type and extent of brachioplasty that you undergo.For more extensive surgery, I would recommend at least 2 weeks off of working out, so you allow the area to heal. After that, you might be able to do some low impact cardio, such as stationary bike.Check with your surgeon too!Good Luck.

Thomas A. Cochran, Jr, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Thanks for your question. Most patients are able to resume normal activities within 2-4 weeks after a brachioplasty. Strenuous activity such as weight lifting, may require a longer recovery period. I would advise you to check with your surgeon as we all differ somewhat in our preferences. Best of luck

James Hoyt, MD (retired) · Answer

If you had a formal brachioplasty, with skin removal and a long scar, it will be 3-4 weeks before any working out should be done.  If just liposuction, 2 weeks is my initial recovery prior to exercise.Please check with your surgeon to check their recommendations and to  make sure the incisions are adequately healed prior to exercise, and start at 25-50% strength for the first several weeks.

How soon can I lift weights after brachioplasty?

Answers (9)

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