Is 2 weeks enough time to recover after a breast lift w/ implants? Daily life requires walking and carrying backpack.

I advise my patients that more than 90 percent of patients are back to work on the fifth day after surgery if they work in an office setting. Women whose work requires lifting, pushing or pulling usually go back to work toward the end of the second week. They might be a little sore at the end of their work day, but by Week 3, they feel pretty much back to normal. Dr. Ted Eisenberg, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and Author. RealSelf Distinguished Hall of Fame Inductee. Philadelphia, Pa., USA

Hi rawrx666,
I generally tell patients a four week period of restrictions--five pound lifting restriction and avoiding repetitive arm motions--after breast lift or breast implants.
Heading to college definitely creates some practical concerns--moving into a new place, increased independence, not knowing people or having a support system to ask for help, and the need to carry heavier objects.
I would suggest scheduling your surgery for 4+ weeks before you would be on your own.
Separate but related, if you are traveling to college that would mean you'd lose access to your surgeon for regular followups--I typically see patients to at least 3-4 months after surgery, in order to see the final result.
Hope this helps.
Best,Christopher Pannucci MD MSBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane, Washington

Dear rawrxd666,
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

Every plastic surgeon has their own recipe for post operative recovery. The best answer would be to discuss this with your plastic surgeon and see what your surgeon has to say. However, you will see that most surgeons have restrictions in place for the first 4-6 weeks.

I personally allow my patients to resume full activity in 4 weeks. That includes exercise and so forth.

Hope that helps.

After two weeks you should be feeling pretty good but you will still be healing. Generally lifting restrictions of over ten pounds are in place for the first six weeks. If your backpack is under this you should be fine. If the amount of walking is broken up over the day with breaks for class, meals, etc you should be fine. I encourage you to speak with your surgeon about your concerns. She/He is most familiar with the details of your surgical plan.