How Long After Breast Implant Removal Can I Resume my Vigorous Activities As a Group Fitness Instructor?

Question

I opted for implant removal after a series of problems that never seemed to cease. My first implants were done 22years ago, they were silicone. My left implant began to leak 5 years ago. I then had them replaced with saline and 3 mos later had a capsular contracture in that same breast. Went under the knife again only to had it happen again within that same year. I am done. I have also had various health issues that I believe were attributed to the implants.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Good day! The recovery with explantation is almost the same with what you experienced with breast augmentation. For the first 48 to 72 hours after the surgery, patients will feel some degree of pain and discomfort. You will be allowed to do normal activities at any time if they cause no pain or discomfort but activity is still largely dependent upon how you feel. However, you are refrained from lifting or raising the arms above the head as strenuous activity will raise your blood pressure, which could cause late bleeding and harm your result. 
During the first week after surgery, swelling and bruising will subside and will be controlled by pain medication. With regards to shower, it is permitted on the 3rd day after surgery if there are no drains. In addition to that, I usually suggest to begin walking around the house periodically throughout the day once the anesthesia has worn off. This will help minimize swelling and bruising and help with the healing process. Doctors have different protocols with regards to recovery so it is best to ask your surgeon about this in detail. Best of luck! #RealSelf100

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Usually my patients can go back to acitivity a bit sooner after implant removal than after implant placment provided that all I had to do was remove the implants. If there was additional work like a lift or full capsulectomy, then usually 3-4 wks no aerobics, 6-8 wks no heavy lifting.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	You should be able to resume your activities as a group fitness instructor relatively quickly after removal of breast implants, barring any complications. Your plastic surgeon will be able to guide you more specifically depending on exactly how you do after your surgery. For most patients this return to vigorous activity may be as early as 3 to 4 weeks after this type of surgery.

	Best wishes.

Kenneth L. Stein, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

After implant removal, you can resume vigorous activity as soon as you are physically able.  This should take no more than 3-5 days.

How Long After Breast Implant Removal Can I Resume my Vigorous Activities As a Group Fitness Instructor?

Answers (4)