Is It Safe to Swim 5 weeks After Breast Augmentation?

It should be ok to be 'in' the ocean after 2-3 weeks, but actively swimming in the ocean can be fairly strenuous and potentially dangerous in rough surf. Also I would still be very careful about sun exposure to the chest area.

It is always best to follow the recommendation of your board certified plastic surgeon as to your exercise tolerance. Your surgeon will know about your tissues, how much he had to do with the pocket, etc. When you do get the OK, make sure to wear very good sports bras. Also ease into it. Don't run a marathon the first day. We see patients post op and let them know their limitations at their appointment. Running is usually about 8 weeks out. Swimming will depend on many variables, including how strenuous your swim is going to be.  Please talk to your plastic surgeon and make a plan about your exercise tolerance.

Patients are eager to return to
normal activity as soon as possible following cosmetic surgery.Unfortunately, returning to normal activity
too soon can result in an increased potential for complications.Swimming and spending time in the Jacuzzi are
both activities that could potentially have negative consequences if resumed
too soon. Theoretically,
once the skin edges have sealed in about 48 hours following surgery, these
activities can be resumed.In reality,
small absorbable interrupted sutures may break through the skin and become
exposed.In this situation, infection
could occur in a patient who is submerged in a Jacuzzi, pool, pond or
ocean.Each of these environments may
have unique and, in many cases, antibiotic resistant bacteria that could lead
to a significant infection. In
addition, plastic surgeons generally don’t recommend resumption of strenuous
activities for at least 6 weeks following breast augmentation surgery.Swimming can create significant strain on the
core muscles and should therefore, be avoided in the immediate post-operative
period.It’s
important to remember that every patient’s procedure and post-operative course
is unique.For these reasons, make sure
you consult your plastic surgeon before getting into the water.

Swimming may be possible at 5 weeks if you do not strain too hard, but it's better to wait at least 6 weeks.  Ask your surgeon for their advice, though.   

Hello! Thank you for your question! On average, a period of approximately 3-4 weeks on average is typical. Submerging in stagnant water, be it bathtubs, jacuzzis, pools, lakes, oceans, etc. can certainly increase your chance for infections. I usually await the incisions to be fully healed prior to allowing for this type of activity. If you do have any wound issues or delayed healing, expect that you will be restricted from doing such things. However, I allow my patients to shower and clean incisions at 3 days postoperative. Regardless, the answer will vary amongst plastic surgeons and you should discuss this with your surgeon and follow his/her instructions. Best wishes!