Will a breast augmentation limit strength training/working out/physical fitness?

Question

I’m 21 and want to get a breast augmentation to correct the shape of my breasts after cancer treatment. They’re less full at the top and I dislike how they sit. Treatment also left my body weaker. My back and arms are especially tight. Should I wait until I’m stronger to get a surgery? I know BA recovery takes a few weeks where activity is limited, but can I resume building my strength after? This procedure is important for me but I want to know that this will not limit me.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

When implants are placed retro-pectorally, they often require release of the origins of the pectoralis major muscle of the ribs inferiorly.  This does weaken the strength of the pectoralis major muscle.  When implants are placed in front of the muscle, this does not occur.  Unfortunately, you have not provided photographs or told us your bra size.  However,  you may benefit from a lift technique rather than implants, if trying to change the shape.  The technique I recommend is The Bellesoma Method.  This will reshape your breast tissue creating upper pole fullness without implants, elevate them higher on the chest wall and more medial to increase your cleavage.  Vertical scars are avoided, nipple sensation (in 95%) and the ability to breast feed are maintained if not injured during previous surgery or treatments.  Later, fat transfers or small implants can be placed if additional volume is desired.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, in my experience the vast majority of patients have resumed light activities of daily living within a week, and their regular vigorous workout regimen by 6 weeks after surgery.  Of course, the recovery process is unique for each person is unique, so I don't promise or guarantee a specific timeframe for healing.  If a person has underlying medical issues they might take longer to heal.  Thank you for your question.

Timothy M. Rankin, MD, FACS · Answer

Typical downtime from a Breast Augmentation is within 1 week (3-7 days). Recovery from breast augmentation can take four to six weeks. During your recovery, we recommend only doing low-stress activities for the first two weeks, such as short walks and regular household activities. At two-weeks post op, we recommend you begin some low impact cardio like exercising with an elliptical or stair master, or hiking if you prefer being outdoors.
After four weeks, you can begin to reintroduce resistance training with no chest exercise. For breast augmentation patients, we recommend no chest exercises until about eight to twelve weeks after surgery to ensure that the precise location of the implant does not shift in an unwanted direction. 
If you are preparing for an event, we recommend having your breast augmentation no less than eight to twelve weeks before the event to ensure proper garment sizing and total activity.

Ted Eisenberg, DO, FACOS, FAACS · Answer

By the third day, many women are able to comfortably lift their children; they can also drive a car if they are not taking narcotics. Getting back to the gym: Patients can generally return to aerobics in three weeks and upper body weightlifting in six weeks. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Joe Gryskiewicz, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi wjhm,
We have a quick recovery method where it is limited down time. If you were to chose to get implants placed retromammary subfacial, there are no restrictions for working out or any exercise. Typically 21 days is the downtime of not raising your heart rate or exercising after surgery but after that you are all good to resume activity.

Daniel Butz, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Photos could be helpful but in general breast augmentation does not limit your exercise potential. There are two 'planes" or pockets the implants can go in. 
1. Submuscular is more commonly used as it tends to look more natural in the upper pole. This can limit your chest workouts early on and there's a higher chance of some animation deformity. 
2. Subfascial could be an option depending on your goals - it does not disrupt the muscle at all, it's less painful and you can get back to chest workouts faster. However, if you're really thin or have limited breast tissue the implant may be more visible.

More information about your breast cancer diagnosis and treatment would be helpful to determine if you're a candidate. 
Seek out a few consultations with board certified plastic surgeons. Virtual consults are great as well.

Will a breast augmentation limit strength training/working out/physical fitness?

Answers (9)

Answer: No problem; Always best to check with your surgeon's protocol. In my experience...

Answer: No problem; Always best to check with your surgeon's protocol. In my experience...

Answer: Will a breast augmentation limit strength training/working out/physical fitness?

Answer: Will a breast augmentation limit strength training/working out/physical fitness?

Answer: Breast implant and exercise

Answer: Breast implant and exercise

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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

Will a breast augmentation limit strength training/working out/physical fitness?

Answers (9)

Answer: No problem; Always best to check with your surgeon's protocol. In my experience...

Answer: No problem; Always best to check with your surgeon's protocol. In my experience...

Answer: Will a breast augmentation limit strength training/working out/physical fitness?

Answer: Will a breast augmentation limit strength training/working out/physical fitness?

Answer: Breast implant and exercise

Answer: Breast implant and exercise

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

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