How long should I wait after a breast augmentation before going white water rafting?

Question

I wanted to make an appointment tomorrow to get a breast augmentation within the next few weeks but I go white water rafting in July. Should I wait until after the rafting trip to schedule the surgery or would it be fully healed before?

Andres Taleisnik, MD · Answer

I advise my patients to avoid strenuous use of the pectoral muscles for 6 weeks after surgery. That would include activities such as vigorous paddling while white water rafting. If you want to have your surgery before your trip, my office is also in Orange, and we could do it in time for you to have 6 or more weeks to recover. I could see you on Monday, May 8.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Hi dinae121, 
  
It is advisable to wait for about six weeks before performing any vigorous activities or exercises after your breast augmentation surgery. However, you should discuss your plans with your plastic surgeon. Your surgeon can determine whether it would be best to wait after you finished white water rafting in July before performing breast augmentation surgery. 
  
Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS
  
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Andrew T. Lyos, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. 
Most patients can resume daily activities after a breast augmentation; however, the first few weeks are the most crucial as far as formal physical exercise, such  as white water rafting, lifting, pushing or pulling. 6 weeks at a minimum would be advisable to wait.  Always defer to your surgeon when it comes to timing as well as they will be able to advise you best.  
Andrew T. Lyos, M.D., FACS

Steven L. Ringler, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question.  You don't really give your surgery date or the planned date of your white water raft trip.  We typically advise patients not to do any aerobics or extreme sports until at least 6 weeks following surgery. It's probably best if you talk to your own doctor regarding recommendations for exercise as they are most familiar with your case.  Have a fun trip.

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your decision to have breast augmentation surgery. Most patients are cleared to exercise by six weeks post-op.  It is best to have an in-person discussion with your plastic surgeon for recommendations regarding your specific concerns. Good luck with your surgery.

Graeme J. Southwick, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. The risk with whitewater rafting or other strenuous activity of the upper body within 10 weeks after surgery is that it can cause a pectoral muscle tear.
Typically, I advise my patients to wait for at least 10 weeks before resuming activities that are more strenuous – going to the gym, weight lifting and exercise in general. This would include white water rafting. After the 10 weeks, it's also important to increase exercise incrementally.
I would wait to schedule your surgery until after your trip, just to be safe. Good luck!

John McFate, MD · Answer

Congrats on your upcoming surgery.  If your surgery is coming up soon, you may have enough time to "heal" but I suspect you would still have some soreness not to the end of all of your healing.  It may also constantly be on your mine worrying and then you don't enjoy your vacation!
I would recommend waiting.  Go have fun white water rafting with no fears.  Then after a great trip, get ready for another fun adventure with your surgery.  Peace of mind is invaluable and I think this would provide the best for you!
Good luck

David A. Sieber, MD, FACS · Answer

I love white water rafting! If I were you, I'd wait until after you've gone rafting for surgery. As much fun as it would be to look great on the raft, the last thing you want is for something to happen to you while rafting. I tell patients they shouldn't go in water for 4 weeks after surgery anyways. There are a lot of strange bacteria that live in lakes and rivers which can cause atypical infections. I think you'd enjoy your rafting more if you didn't have to worry about anything. Have fun and take some good pictures!~Dr. Sieber

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I would generally say a minimum of 4 weeks for activities that will involve open water and submerging the incision. White water rafting may take even a couple of weeks after that before you will really feel comfortable. Best wishes.

Arian Mowlavi, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

You should wait at least 2 months becuase you have to use a lot of your upper body when rafting and this can cause you to get malposition.

How long should I wait after a breast augmentation before going white water rafting?

Answers (15)

More Breast Augmentation Questions

Can I go to wisdom teeth removal after 2 weeks of breast augmentation?

Will losing 30 pounds after BA affect results?

Is it normal to have pain in your incision? Mine is under the crease and sharp pains in my nipple (Photo)

What is wrong with my implants? I am 20 days post op.

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS