Swelling after lipo. Is it safe to start walking, and doing light cardio?

Question

Hi. I'm about 10 days post op breast lift and Lipo. Is it ok just to do light cardio like walking on the treadmill. I had some Lipo done on my legs swelling is present.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not okay to do cardio 10 days after liposuction.  It will mobilize nothing but it will surely increase the swelling and put you at risk for bleeding and hematoma formation.  Typically it is best to wait 4 weeks after liposuction before starting cardio.   You certainly will not gain anything by exercising earlier, but you will increase your risks.  The restrictions on your lift and your liposuction are the same since the biology of wound healing is the same in both places.  If you have swelling already you are most definitely to make it worse by walking on the treadmill.

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Light walking is fine after surgery. In
General after liposuction,You can resume your exercise regimen anywhere between
14 -21 days. Exercising before two weeks will cause swelling and pain.  Follow the recommendations of your
surgeon. Best Wishes

Misbah Khan MD, FAAD, FACMS · Answer

I highly encourage exercise after liposuction. I tell all my patients to start light cardio even if its 20-mins a day as soon as possible. I think its safe to say that the post-procedure care largely depends upon the surgeon and their surgical techniques. best would be to consult with your doctor. if they say you have to wait then you must wait until its recommended by your doctor

Peter J. Capizzi, MD · Answer

I normally recommend waiting a week or two after surgery to start light activity, but check with your operating surgeon first. Everyone is different so the important thing is to listen to your body, if your body starts hurting, stop the activity and rest. Do not push your body too hard because you could lengthen your recovery time or put yourself at risk for other side effects.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

I insist that my patients begin walking immediately after liposuction. Even if it becomes a cardiovascular exercise I have no problem.

Eric Mariotti, MD · Answer

It's important to resume light activity soon after surgery in
order to encourage healthy blood flow and support healing. However, if you had
liposuction done on your legs, I encourage you to consult with your surgeon
before getting on the treadmill or participating in any kind of exercise. He or
she knows the details of your case and can safely advise you regarding your
next steps. Good luck in your recuperation!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

I encourage my liposuction patients to walk after surgery and do activities that do not cause or increase pain. Movement will help mobilize the swelling. However, do check with your surgeon since you also had a lift.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I often allow my patients to go back to light gym activity after liposuction within 1-2 weeks. You should check with your surgeon.

John A. Perrotti, MD · Answer

I encourage patients to start exercising lightly, such as walking, almost immediately after surgery. Patients can then increase activity as tolerated, unless they begin to feel more swollen or fatigued.

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I tell my patients that they can return to light cardio workouts after a week. Swelling can still go on, sometimes for 6-12 weeks, so it's going to take time to see your final results. Please double-check w/ your surgeon though. Best wishes.

Swelling after lipo. Is it safe to start walking, and doing light cardio?

Answers (10)

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