When can I return to the gym after a facelift?

Itypically tell my patients that they have to wait two weeks to return to thegym, then to only use elliptical or bicycle. After that, we encourage waiting four weeks beforebeginning most other exercise, and then by six weeks they can return to Pilatesand Yoga. Initially during the first phases of healing, an increase in bloodpressure caused by too much activity can result in bleeding under the skin, orwhat is called a hematoma. Also, the incisions are still not approximated andcan come open. It’s very important to follow your surgeon’s directions forthis.

I tell my patients they can exercise after 1-2 weeks, but you have to ask your plastic surgeon his/her preference for you.

Hello! Thank you for your question! After any surgical procedure, you should be careful with incisions as well as avoidance of direct UVA and UVB rays in order to lessen the chance for hyperpigmentation of the skin and scars, which can take several months to resolve, if it ever does. The ability of the affected area to heal has been slowed and you should try to avoid additional swelling to the area. The area will likely be numb for several weeks to months and will be difficult to feel when sunburn is coming on. Typical recommendations include wearing a hat and/or sunblock to the affected area for at least 6-12 weeks following the procedure. It takes up to one year for scars to fully mature. You should also avoid trauma to the area for several months to protect the refinements made during the procedure. Also, avoidance of pools/lakes/jacuzzis/etc for 4-6 weeks is usually recommended to allow adequate healing and protection from stagnant water, that could potentially harbor bacteria. Light activities are able to be done safely after just a few days.  Lifting/exercise restrictions with vigorous activity are common for at least 4-6 weeks. This is done to reduce swelling and allow the contouring to settle as easily as possible, allowing the best results. Certainly during the first week or so, limitations with activity are very important in order to decrease the possibility of bleeding/fluid accumulation. After this time, I allow a gradual increase in exercise and cardiovascular activity. Certainly discuss the postoperative instructions with your surgeon, as thoughts differ among surgeons. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!