How long after getting a breast augmentation do you have to wait to go to the pool or beach?

Hi Loveharmony13,

Downtime and recovery after breast augmentation surgery varies.

The majority of breast augmentation patients need one week of downtime. Depending on the work environment (heavy lifting, etc) more time off may be necessary. Patients are encouraged to walk immediately after surgery to avoid blood clots in the legs. When it comes to exercising and other activities, it may also vary depending on the type of exercises or activities you are going to perform.

I suggest that you follow your plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions, especially on the level of activity that you can do and your scheduled follow up checkups, for faster healing and recovery.

Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you very much for your question, as it is a
common one. After a breast augmentation, it is recommended that you avoid heavy
lifting and vigorous exercise for four to six weeks. Swimming is another
activity that should be postponed during the healing process. Whether at the
beach or in the pool, water activities can put you at risk for serious
complications. It is not advised that you submerge your breasts into pool water
until all healing has finished, from four to six weeks. This will depend on
your individual surgeon’s own protocols and your recovery progression. Additionally,
prolonged exposure to sunlight and UV rays can cause your incisions to
permanently darken. Talk with your operating surgeon for his/her advice on
returning to the pool and other outdoor activities after your breast
augmentation

Thank you for your question.
Check with your surgeon as he/she may have different post op protocol. Generally speaking, you should wait 6 weeks before submersing yourself in water such as a pool or a bath. 
Keep your incisions covered as well as it will darken the scar.
Regards,

hello thank you for your question and provided information as wel..It is advisable after 6 months that the breasts do not take the risk mainly of the wounds getting dark.

Thank you for your question. This is a common question patients ask. Typically by 6-10 weeks it is perfectly adequate to swim in a pool or the ocean. Your plastic surgeon will let you know when you can start regular activities like this one. As far as sunlight I would suggest protecting your scars as they will darken with the sun. Hope this helps!Dr. Newall 

Thank you for your question. I recommend waiting 6-8 weeks after a breast augmentation before getting in a pool, hot tub, steam room, sauna, or open bodies of water such as the ocean or a lake. You want to be sure your incisions are fully healed. You should avoid sun exposer to your incisions (or exposer in a tanning bed) for one year.

Loveharmony13.  I recommend no direct sunlight or sunbathing for 3 to 4 weeks after breast augmentation. Also the scars should not see the sun until they are fully mature after one year. Be certain to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  I advise my patients that they can return to the gym in one week after breast augmentation for light exercise, not involving the pectoralis muscle.  You should refrain from pectoralis exercises for six weeks.  You should not allow direct sunlight on your scars after surgery for six months.   Make sure you specifically look
at before and after pictures of real patients who have had this surgery
performed by your surgeon and evaluate their results.   The most
important aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Hi loveharmony13,
Usually, one month after breast augmentation you can return to the pool or the beach. You should alwayscheck with your plastic surgeon first to make sure everything has healed well. Sunlight should be avoided in general because it causes premature aging to the skin and can make scar appear darker. Good luck with your recovery and enjoy the summer. 
Dr. Lee

Thanks for this question. The average patient in my practice waits 6 weeks to return to the pool. Always avoid direct sun exposure. Congratulations and good luck!