When is it safe for a massage therapist to return to work after breast augmentation?

Thank you for your questions. I think the return to work is different depending on your job. For most patients after breast augmentation, they are usually off pain medication within a few days and for people with desk jobs and no significant lifting requirements, it is usually fine for them to return to work in 3-7 days. However, for those with more strenuous job requirements, I usually suggest more caution. While the scar tissue around the implants is healing, it is important not to disturb them and create too much movement of the implant. If you are placing a large amount of strain on the muscles, this is displacing the implants, and I would not advise that. In your case, I would not return to strenuous activity for 6 weeks, but it is always best to discuss with your board (ABPS) certified plastic surgeon.Best of luck!

Hi Michelle8557,

Downtime and recovery after breast augmentation surgery varies.
The majority of breast augmentation patients need one week 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. When it comes to exercising, it may also vary depending on the type of exercises you are going to perform.

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, MHA, MS

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery

Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Hello Michelle8557, 
It’s a pleasure to answer your questions! Every patient is unique and will have different recovery deadlines and processes. Most of my patients can resume desk-type employment and regular activities, one week after breast augmentation with implants. You may be instructed to expect a longer recovery time before you return to work since you have a physically demanding job. Have in mind that under the muscle implant placement is typically more painful, have a significant risk of double-bubble or snoopy deformity of the breast, and it’s associated with a longer period of recovery, and more post-operative discomfort. I would suggest contacting your plastic surgeon to discuss your specific needs and concerns. He/she has intimate knowledge about the procedure to be perform and detailed familiarity about your potential complications. Best regards! Dr. De La Cruz.