How long after suture removal can I re-engage in powerlifting?

Question

I had two superficial spreading melanomas removed--one from my right upper back and one on my right upper abdomen. My primary exercise, sport, and "hobby" (for lack of a better term) is powerlifting. How long after the sutures are removed can I get back into the gym and go full-strength? Because I think it's a factor, I'll tell you that I'm a 50 year old male, competing in the Master's division.

Laura A. Katz, MD · Answer

Hello djohnkinman.  It would be a lot easier to answer this question if you provided pictures to be able to see how big and/or deep your incisions were.  It would also be helpful to know what technique was used to close your incisions and how long after biopsy that your sutures were removed.  Having said that, there are a couple of things to keep in mind.  Whenever your skin or is separated by biopsy or surgery, it loses some of its tensile strength at that incision site forever.  Studies tell us that that incision edge is only regain up to 80% of that strength each time it is opened.  This means that each time an incision is opened, it is only 80% as strong as the last time it was opened, etc.  With powerlifting, you are lifting hundred of pounds at a time, adding a great deal of pressure on those edges in addition to the movements and stretching of those areas.  Your suture lines on your upper back and abdomen would definitely be affected.  At Laura A. Katz, MD PC, we would probably recommend that you wait a solid six weeks before any powerlifting, provided that your incisions are well healed and completely sealed at that time and without any redness, drainage or signs of infection.  We traditionally also recommend that you start with lesser weight and build up to your previous powerlifing limits gradually.

How long after suture removal can I re-engage in powerlifting?

Answers (1)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mole Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

How long after suture removal can I re-engage in powerlifting?

Answers (1)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mole Removal

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.