How long before I could return to weight lifting after a breast reduction?

Breast reduction can be a life-changing procedure for anyone, but especially for active, athletic women. I imagine you'll be very happy with your decision. Having said that, you don't want to push yourself too much or too soon in the weight room. Even though leg exercises don't directly involve the chest muscles, the exertion may inadvertently pose a risk. The best advice, as others have said, is to discuss your workouts with your surgeon and closely follow his or her instructions.

Thanks for the question. After 4-6 weeks your operation area is totally healed and yes you can do weightlifting and also do other sport activities. I wish you all the best.

Dear Radius,the majority of patients need a couple of weeks of downtime. Depending on the work environment (heavy lifting, etc) more time off may be necessary. Patients are encouraged to walk immediately after surgery to avoid blood clots in the legs. I suggest that you follow your plastic surgeon’s post-operative instructions, especially on the level of activity that you can do and your scheduled follow up checkups, for faster and recovery.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hi Radius,One of the most important aspects to a patient’s recovery is their ability to return to their workout routines in a manner that is safe and will not jeopardize their results.  Following a breast reduction, many patients are anxious to exercise, as they may have had limitations in exercise due to their previous breast size. While I encourage physical fitness, it’s crucial to let the body sufficiently heal following a breast reduction procedure. Lower body exercise is encouraged but the exact time frame should be discussed with your surgeon. While weights should not be used, body weight lunges and squats are perfectly fine. Low impact cardio is encouraged, and walking, stationary bicycling, and using an elliptical without the arm attachments are all good choices. Any type of exercise involving the upper body should be avoided until clearance from your board certified plastic surgeon. Hope this answers your question.
Best of luck,Andrew Jimerson II, MD

Hi there Radius and thanks for posting,You could manage a graduated return to exercise. That is what we have developed for our patients with a PT.In the first week or so I would keep it to gentle walking By the second week you could start doing some more mobilisation work including some light weights and leg work.Through the 3rd and 4th week you could start building up if everything was comfortable, with an aim to be back at full activity by 6 weeks.The final call though is with your surgeon. Even though it is unlikely to cause any damage, if this program is not supported by your surgeon and you have a problem, then it can become awkward.The majority of our patients are young and fit and focused on exercise, as a result we are very proactive in getting people exercising, but not all surgeons will share that view.Best wishesRichard

Thank you very much for this important question. Postoperative care after procedures such as a breast reduction are very important to ensure that you have your cosmetic results after your procedure.
Every plastic surgeon has a different method of post operative care.
After breast reduction, I  usually tell my patients that they are not allowed to lift anything over 5 pounds for the first month. Five weeks after surgery, I allowed my patience to do non-impact aerobics, and six weeks after surgery they are released to full activity they have healed well and there are no wound complications.
Remember, each surgeon has their own protocol and it’s very important to follow your surgeons instructions to the letter.

Please consult with a plastic surgeon board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery to learn about all of your options for breast reduction and post operative care.
Best wishes! 
Rahul Vemula, MD 
Double Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

Thanks for your question, Radius.
In general, you can return to doing light exercises starting at around two to three weeks after your breast reduction. You can start with your lower body workouts at week four, and then gradually go back to your normal routine at week six.
Still, the timeline varies from person to person. You may go on a follow up checkup with your reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon to ask if you’re already fit to go back to your normal exercise routine a bit earlier.  He needs to evaluate how you’re recovering first before providing any recommendations.
Good luck

hi,
i recommend to my patients return to physical activities like working out 4-6 weeks after surgery.  it is hard to predict how you will recover since everyone is different.  you are paying for your surgery and investing time/effort/recovery, it is best not to add to any potential complications and delay in recovery.  you should get specific instructions from your plastic surgeon.  hope this helps.

You can usually go back to full activity within about three weeks after a breast reduction but you would still need to wear a supportive bra and scarxtapedotcome to support the scars. Dr. Ed Domanskis

Each surgeon will have different protocols based on judgment and experience and I'd suggest that you not second guess your surgeon's recommendations.  He/she may alter the recommendations after surgery depending upon how much or little swelling you experience and your progress with incision healing.   There is a risk of complications from too much early activity so I'd suggest that you consider your procedure an investment in yourself and that you be patient to allow for the best healing and risk of complications.  Enjoy the video link below for additional useful info.Best wishes and good luck with your procedure!Jon A Perlman MD FACS 

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 

Member, ASAPS, ASPS

Extreme Makeover Surgeon, ABC TV

Best of Los Angeles Award 2015, 2016 

Beverly Hills, Ca