How long after a lower body lift can I start running again?

Question

I'm 2 months post-op small thigh lift, LBL and breast lift/augmentation. I've healed beautifully and have full energy. I'm back to elliptical, kickboxing and some yoga. I want to run again, but the bouncing in my buttocks near my LBL incision hurts. I could probably push through it, and the pain stops if I hold/apply pressure with my hands while jogging (or any hopping/jumping) but don't want to push it if I shouldn't. Thinking maybe scar tissue but not sure.

David Stoker, MD · Answer

If certain exercises such as running are causing you pain, I advise you to substitute lower impact exercises for another two months.  The elliptical is a good choice for cardiovascular exercise during your recovery.  At six months you should be fully recovered.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question regarding returning to running after your lower body lift, small thigh lift, and breast lift/augmentation. Congratulations on your smooth recovery so far! At two months post-op, it’s great to hear that you have resumed low-impact activities like the elliptical, kickboxing, and yoga.

The bouncing sensation and discomfort in your buttocks when running is common after a lower body lift. This is likely due to residual swelling, healing scar tissue, and the tightness of the newly repositioned skin and muscle layers. Your tissues are still in the process of settling, and running creates significant impact forces on the surgical area.

Most board-certified plastic surgeons recommend waiting at least three to four months before resuming high-impact activities like running, jumping, or plyometric exercises. If you are experiencing discomfort, listen to your body—forcing yourself through pain may lead to complications like prolonged swelling, irritation, or even suture breakdown in areas where the incision is still maturing.

To transition back to running safely:

Continue with low-impact cardio, such as incline walking, cycling, or elliptical work.
Support your surgical area by wearing a high-compression garment or even applying light manual pressure as you have been doing.
Gradually increase intensity by incorporating short jogging intervals into your walks, slowly increasing duration over time.
Avoid running on hard surfaces like concrete, as this increases the shock on healing tissues.
If the pain persists beyond the three- to four-month mark, consult your plastic surgeon to ensure proper healing and no underlying issues.
Your patience now will ensure the best long-term results. Give your body the time it needs to fully adjust, and soon you’ll be back to running without discomfort. Good luck with your continued recovery!

Sincerely,
Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD, MBA, FASMBS, FICS

Paul Vitenas, Jr., MD · Answer

In general it is always wise to follow the guidance of your surgeon regarding activity after a surgical procedure as he/she is the only person who actually knows what was done at surgery. In general six weeks is required for wounds to heal and for patients to resume normal activities, however, each patient is a little different and it may take a bit longer or a bit shorter depending on the individual.

Mark A. Deuber, MD · Answer

You should always consult with your surgeon about a recommended time table to return to unrestricted activities.In general, after a body lift, I expect my patients to be walking and moving within 24 hours of surgery.  I allow my patients light cardiovascular actitivies within 2-3 weeks of surgery depending on their healing.  More strenuous cardiovascular activities, core and weight lifting activities may require 6 weeks of healing time.  Generally, there will be multiple follow up visits during this period to assess healing progress and discuss a gradual increase in activity level back to normal.

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

I am very impressed that you are back to kickboxing and yoga two months after a body lift. Returning to running might take a while. Fist, get your doctor's approval. Second, take baby steps. If it hurts, back off. You might need to wear some form of compression garment to keep your butt lifted while you run. Experiment with different techniques until it works. You may want to work with a running coach to alter your gait to reduce the bounce. This might take a little creativity to achieve your goals.

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

I have my patients wait atleast 6 weeks post operatively to resume exercise, however, there are many patients who still need more time to heal and they may just exercise doing low impact weight lifting and walk instead of run at this point.  I tell my patients to feel what they're bodies are telling them and cut back if it hurts. You may want to schedule an appointment with your physician and discuss .

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Your plastic surgeon will be your best resource when it comes to determining the return to specific activities after the specific procedures performed. He/she will know exactly how you are progressing and whether or not you have experienced any complications. Remember, that he/she is ultimately responsible for your care.Having said that, I ask my lower body lifting patients to start walking ASAP after surgery but refrain from any heavy-lifting or strenuous exercise for 6-8 weeks to prevent complications and ensure proper healing. It may be 4-6 months before you reach your full energy and strength levels. Best to “go slow” and listen to your body as you gradually increase or activity level. Best wishes.

Mark Schwartz, MD · Answer

Sissy, congratulations on your surgery and recovery!  It is impressive that you have made great progress getting back to your workout regimen.  I would hold off on jogging or running for another month or so if you are experiencing pain.  Try to build up more strength with the other activities that you are tolerating well.  Pushing yourself to do more strenuous activities may be putting direct pressure on the healing scar.  You are better off giving the surgical sites more time to recover rather than "working through" the pain.

James E. Leake, MD (retired) · Answer

if running hurts now, I would recommend starting with walking, followed by speed walking, then walk-run. this will help get your muscles back in better shape. you should wear good support in your surgical areas during exercise, some type of compression garment.  if it is scar tissue then you could benefit from scar massage and stretching before exercising.

How long after a lower body lift can I start running again?

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