Recovery time for breast reduction and mini panniculectomy?

Question

I'm a downhill skier and want to plan surgery around ski season. How many weeks will I need before it is safe to ski? I ski rough terrain.

Christopher Pannucci, MD, MS · Answer

Hi Treebird,
For tummy tuck, I recommend ten weeks of a core based lifting restriction and avoidance of repetitive movements...this assumes that your surgeon will plicate/tighten your six pack muscles. The lifting restriction is to allow your abdominal wall fascia to heal, and the avoidance of repetitive motions is to prevent shear between your subcutaneous fat and the abdominal wall, which can promote fluid collections.
I usually recommend a two week ramp-up period when your restrictions go away at ten weeks--and that means you wouldn't be skiing until 12 weeks from surgery (and even then, starting slow!). It being the end of August, I'd schedule surgery either now or in the spring if you want to maximize your skiing time.
Hope this helps!
Best,Christopher Pannucci MDBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane, Washington

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Treebird,

Balancing your passion for downhill skiing with undergoing a breast reduction and mini panniculectomy requires thoughtful planning to ensure a smooth recovery and a timely return to the slopes. Here’s an overview of what to expect in terms of recovery, keeping in mind your active lifestyle:

Breast Reduction and Mini Panniculectomy Recovery Phases:

Initial Recovery: The first 2-3 weeks post-surgery are crucial for your body to heal from the immediate effects of the operations. During this period, you'll experience the most significant swelling, discomfort, and limitations on physical activity. It's essential to focus on rest, proper wound care, and avoiding any activity that could strain your incisions or compromise your recovery.

Moderate Recovery: From weeks 3 to 6, you'll likely notice a significant improvement in discomfort and swelling. During this phase, you can gradually resume light activities, but strenuous exercise and heavy lifting are still off-limits. Your surgeon will provide guidance based on your healing progress.

Advanced Recovery: By weeks 6 to 12, most patients are well on their way to feeling more like themselves and can start to reintroduce more vigorous activities under medical guidance. However, complete healing and internal settling can take up to 6 months or more.

Returning to Skiing:

Given the demanding nature of downhill skiing, especially on rough terrain, it’s imperative to err on the side of caution. Skiing not only involves significant physical exertion but also puts you at risk of falls or sudden movements that could impact your recovery. Here are some considerations:

Wait Until Fully Healed: For an activity as intensive as downhill skiing, it’s recommended to wait at least 3-4 months post-surgery before considering a return. This timeline allows most of the healing to occur, but the exact timing should be personalized based on your recovery and surgeon’s advice.

Consult Your Surgeon: Before hitting the slopes, have a check-up with your surgeon to assess your healing and get personalized advice. Your surgeon’s approval is crucial to ensure that your body is ready to handle the physical demands of skiing.

Listen to Your Body: Even with your surgeon's go-ahead, it’s vital to listen to your body. Start slowly and be prepared to stop if you experience any discomfort or signs that you’re pushing too hard.

Planning your surgery around ski season means aiming for a time that allows you a full 3-4 months of recovery before you plan to ski. Considering the recovery timelines, undergoing surgery in the late spring or early summer could provide ample time to heal before the ski season begins, allowing you to return to the slopes with confidence in your physical capabilities.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

Tommaso Addona, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. 
As long as you are not having any abdominal muscle repair, you should be safe to start skiing after six weeks with tight compression garments to the breasts and abdomen. Keep in mind after this six week period, you should start slowly and work your way up since you will be sore. I would recommend speaking with your plastic surgeon for their specific recommendations.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Each surgeon will have her/his own protocols for returning to vigorous activities after surgery.  Typically it is six weeks before returning to regular exercise, and then you will progress slowly to your prior activity levels.  Your surgeon will advise what is best for you based on your surgical plan and how you progress through recovery.  I would anticipate that you will need more time than typical before returning to skiing on rough terrain.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Treebird,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

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