Should I stop working out before a Breast lift/Aug? How long before push-ups/planks after surgery?

Question

I've read stories from women that they stopped working out before their surgery to "relax" their muscles. I live to workout and am not looking forward to taking a break after surgery. Is it important to stop exercising before surgery too? Also, how long is a safe period of time before doing push ups/planks after surgery? I regularly practice yoga and we must do at least 50 push-ups during one class. How long should I wait before doing a handstand? Thanks in advance.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

Working out prior to your surgery should have no effect on your recuperation or results. It's always best to check with your surgeon's post operative protocol. I advise my patients they may return to the gym at three weeks for activities like running, aerobics, lower body weights, and swimming. They may do upper body weights starting off lighter than their usual routines at around 5 to 6 weeks, based on their level of comfort. So when you are trying some pushups at 5 to 6 weeks, listen to your body and take about two weeks to return to 50 push ups. Again, listening to your body is a good barometer of what your body is ready to do. For more information on this and similar topics, I recommend a plastic surgery Q&A book like "The Scoop On Breasts: A Plastic Surgeon Busts the Myths."

David L. Kaufman, MD FACS · Answer

You can work out right up until the day of your breast augmentation and lift, and your activity will not interfere with your procedure. In terms of resuming exercise after your breast augmentation and lift, your plastic surgeon should give you a timeline for recovery that includes when you can begin certain activities. Most women are able to resume more vigorous exercise within 6 to 8 weeks of their procedure, but any activity that puts pressure on the chest muscle, like push-ups and planks, can displace the implant and should be avoided for 8 weeks or longer. Your plastic surgeon is best-equipped to advise you on this matter.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

I don't see any reason to stop exercise prior to surgery.  Would I recommend heavy chest exercises the day prior?  Probably not, but anything before that will be fine.  Also, I like my patients to avoid chest exercises for 3 full months post-op.  It is going to give you the best result and cleavage.  Good luck!

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It will be very important for you to follow the specific advice of your plastic surgeon regarding exercise after breast augmentation with lift.  Very generally speaking in my practice most patients are able to resume vigorous gym exercise by 6 weeks however your individual surgeon will have his or her specific advice. I see no reason to stop your workouts before surgery.

Should I stop working out before a Breast lift/Aug? How long before push-ups/planks after surgery?

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Answer: Should I stop working out before a Breast lift/Aug? How long before push-ups/planks after surgery?

Answer: Should I stop working out before a Breast lift/Aug? How long before push-ups/planks after surgery?

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Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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Should I stop working out before a Breast lift/Aug? How long before push-ups/planks after surgery?

Answers (4)

Answer: Should I stop working out before a Breast lift/Aug? How long before push-ups/planks after surgery?

Answer: Should I stop working out before a Breast lift/Aug? How long before push-ups/planks after surgery?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Lift with Implants

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