Training for IRONMAN. Swimming after breast augmentation? (photos)

Question

I got 325cc breast implants 14 days ago. I am looking at getting back into training for IRONMAN. I am most nervous about swimming/ running and my implants moving... Any thoughts on this? I am looking at doing a full distance IRONMAN in May so I need to get back in the pool- my doctor said 4 weeks post op I am able to swim and 3 weeks for running/ cycling (starting light).

Jeffrey J. Roth, MD, FACS · Answer

Different plastic surgeons will have different recommendations depending on their training and experience.  It is always best to follow the recommendation of your board certified plastic surgeon as to your exercise tolerance.  Your surgeon will know about your tissues, how much he/she had to do with the pocket, etc.  When you do get the OK, make sure to wear very good sports bras.  Also please ease into excercise.  Don't run a marathon the first day.  We see patients post op and let them know their limitations at their appointment.  Running is usually about 8 weeks out. Swimming will depend on many variables, including how strenuous your swim is going to be. Are you planning to do long competitive swims in the ocean right away?  Please talk to your plastic surgeon and make a plan about your exercise tolerance.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Every surgeon has his or her own post op protocol when it comes to exercise. I typically advise my patients to wait 4-6 weeks, but your surgeon knows your case best so follow his or her advise. And good luck with the IronMan! Best, Dr. Nazarian

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

I agree with your doctor. I tell my patients that three weeks after surgery, it’s OK for them to do aerobic activity (treadmill, stationary bike, etc.), running and lower-body weight training. Women are usually comfortable doing arm exercises (upper-body weights, swimming) starting about six weeks after surgery.I have two Triple Crown bodybuilders in my cosmetic breast surgery practice. They started upper workouts at six weeks with no problem. I did advise them to start light at first and allow two weeks to get back to their full weight workout. For more information on this and related topics, I recommend a plastic surgery Q&A book like "The Scoop On Breasts: A Plastic Surgeon Busts the Myths."

Richard Zienowicz, MD · Answer

Follow the advice of your surgeon who knows the details of you breast augmentation. Good luck in Ironman!

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

At
this point in your recovery, it is much too soon to be worried about the
outcome.  It takes time for the implants to settle into position and the
skin and muscle to stretch out to accommodate the new implant.  It may be
6 months or more before the shape has reached its final look.  Be patient.

David J. Wages, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  In my practice I normally allow women to resume cardiovascular activity at three weeks and unrestricted activity at three months.  One needs to consider if the wounds are not completely healed what could occur.  I would not want a patient to get into the pool and have an incision spread open and expose an implant.  Most wounds can be considered healed at six weeks but the type of physical activity you describe would make me want to err on the side of safety and use a longer timeframe.  Discuss this with your surgeon and listen to their advice.  Good luck.

Lee E. Corbett, MD · Answer

I think it best to follow your surgeons post operative instructions. He or she knows your case the best.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I think it is best to follow the directions given to you by your surgeon. He will be able to monitor your healing and give you appropriate advise.

Vasdev Rai, MD · Answer

All patients heal and recover differently.  It is best to be guided by your own surgeon in this regard.

Joshua A. Halpern, MD, PA · Answer

Thank you for your question. Different surgeons have different protocols. My patients who are Ironman competitors go back into the pool 3 weeks post op surgery.

Training for IRONMAN. Swimming after breast augmentation? (photos)

Answers (16)

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