How soon is it okay to at least sit at a desk and type after BA?

Question

My op instructions say for at least the first week I am to keep my arms to my sides. I was planning on working from home. How soon is it okay to at least sit at a desk and type? Is this allowed since the elbow is still below the chest height?

Peter J. Capizzi, MD · Answer

Typing and moving your arms to type should not have any bearing on the outcome of your surgery.  In fact, the women in my practice who have had breast augmentations are allowed to have full range of motion of their arms in the recovery area.  They are able to begin work and working out within 48 hours and have also had aerobics instructors teaching in 72 hours.

James E. Murphy, MD, FACS · Answer

Each Plastic Surgeon has his or her post op instructions.  Some can vary greatly.  The best plan for you is to speak to your surgeon and follow their instructions. All the best to you.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.Typing on a computer at a desk is typically okay within a couple of days after surgery. Obviously, you will want to contact your surgeon and follow his or her instructions.

I hope this helps.

I hope this helps.

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

I usually recommend my patients who have desk jobs take at least four to five days off of work during the healing process.  You could try to use voice to text so you don't have to type at the computer if you are working from home.  I wish you all the best

Richard H. Fryer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  You can start typing and sitting at a desk as soon as you feel comfortable to do so after surgery.  For most patients it is between 4-7 days after surgery that they are feeling better and feel up to working again, even at a desk job.  If you have concerns I would contact your plastic surgeon to find out specifics. If you would like more information regarding breast augmentation and recovery, you can download a free copy of my breast augmentation planner at ABetterBreast.com.Best of luck

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

If your recovery is going well, then you should be able to do this within a week, although you should ask your surgeon first.

David Liland, MD · Answer

I allow my patients to return to office work 2 to 3 days after their breast augmentation and that would include typing in your situation. Call you PS office and  ask the staff please.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to speak with your surgeon as opinions may vary and he/she is most familiar with your surgical plan and how you've been progressing through recovery.  Typically patients can return to a non physically demanding job within 5-7 days of surgery.

Bao L. Phan, MD · Answer

Every patient's case and recovery is unique as well as every plastic surgeon's post- operative protocol so always check with your surgeon first if you have any questions regarding your recovery.  For my own breast augmentation patients, sitting at a desk and typing one week after surgery is perfectly fine with me. Best wishes.

Kris M. Reddy, MD, FACS · Answer

Each surgeon has his or her guidelines for postoperative care. Typically, patients can return to light activities post breast augmentation in 3 to 7 days. Consult your surgeon as he or she knows the scope of the surgery and the specifics about you.