When can you start exercising after buccal fat removal?

Question

Exercise is a big part of my life and I am scheduled for buccal fat removal. There seems to be some variability in the duration of time that surgeons suggest to abstain from exercise post-op (1-4 weeks). Might milder exercise be permissible in the initial stages? What are likely risks of continuing to exercise?

Omar Lazos, MD · Answer

This is the most office based procedure I personally do. I advice my patients to do no efforts for at least 3 days (heavy lifting, running, pushing, gym, etc). The main reason is that physical activity raises blood pressure and small blood vessels can be reopened and cause local bleeding, thus an hematoma can develope. The hematoma is an uncommon minor complication, still looks like a disaster has happend on the face, like a golf ball under pressure. The face swells a lot, so with an hematoma if not drained the swelling and bruising can extend to the lower eye and down to the lips and neck. Still this complication resolves on it´s self, it just takes time. I advice my patient´s 1 week of rest with no physical activity and 2 weeks for gym. Hopes this helps you... !

Clayton Crantford, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Every surgeon has their own protocol following buccal fat reduction. I advise my patients to limit their physical activity for the first week following surgery. Best of luck.

John Mesa, MD · Answer

Buccal fat removal is associated with post surgical swelling that generally is mild. Therefore it is  generally recommended to avoid post surgical expertise for several weeks to allow normal healing process to happen. In my practice patients that exercise right after surgery (eg 1 or 2 weeks after surgery) their swelling gets worst and therefore recovery prolongs. Therefore in my practice I tell my patients not to exercise for at least 2 weeks post procedure.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear crabapple1234567,every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

Hello crabapple1234567, 
I appreciate your questions! Many patients who desire slimmer cheeks and a more sculpted facial appearance, opt for buccal fat removal surgery. Plastic surgeons have different post-operative protocols, customized for every patient to achieve optimal results after buccal fat removal. Based on my experience, the majority of patients are allowed to return to light, low impact cardiovascular exercise during the first week of recovery. Exercise of some sort is very important, even if it is just walking around your house. Having said this, resting is also essential to the healing process. Therefore, heavy lifting and strenuous activities are still restricted during the first week after surgery to avoid post-operative complications such as excessive bleeding, pain, swelling and bruising. You will be able to return to more vigorous exercise/heavy lifting at 7-9 days after surgery. Since every case is different, consult with your plastic surgeon to discuss your specific needs and concerns. Best regards! Dr. De La Cruz.

Jon Kurkjian, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.
Every plastic surgery office has their own set of pre and post operative instructions that they recommend their patients follow. It is most important to follow the instructions of your surgeon.

When can you start exercising after buccal fat removal?

Answers (6)

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