When can I start lifting weights after a rhinoplasty?

Question

After a rhinoplasty and fat grafting to the face, how long do you tell your patients to wait until they start working out (cardio and heavy weights) again?

S. Larry Schlesinger, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for this often asked question.  In my experience of over thirty years as a Board Certified plastic surgeon, it depends on how strenuous one's weightlifting is going to be.  If you were my patient, I would allow you to start lifting weights after two weeks going from very light weights to just getting the blood flowing in your muscles, to a full workout, including benching and dead lifts, at four weeks.Obviously, each plastic surgeon has his or her own paradyme for strenuous activity after a rhinoplasty.  Please contact your personal plastic surgeon since he or she has a much better idea of what maneuvers were done during your particular surgery.

Adam Bryce Weinfeld, MD · Answer

I typically tell my patients they can resume full activity 3 weeks after rhinoplasty. It is best to discuss with your surgeon his or her recommendations for your specific case.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear hwylieplum,every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Jeffrey R. Raval, MD, FACS, MBA · Answer

Every person's surgery and recovery is different, but in general you can resume light exercise after 2 weeks and moderate to vigorous exercise (muscle strengthening, cycling, jogging, etc.) after 4 weeks. Following the post-op instructions of your surgeon and asking your question during the follow-up appointment is the best practice for a full recovery.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

We have seen nasal hemorrhage in our rhinoplasty patients anytime within 21 days postoperative rhinoplasty. Since you had a combined procedure, it may be best to ask your surgeon for specific advice. Hope this helps!

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

Every surgeon has their own protocol for the postoperative course. You should heed your particular surgeon's advice. That being said, for a rhinoplasty and facial fat grafting, most patients will need to wait at least 3 weeks before being released to engage in strenuous activities.Steven Turkeltaub, MD

Kapil Saigal, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello! My advice to my patients after nasal surgery is: Off work for 1 week, back to the gym after 2 weeks (though walking/light activity ok after wk 1), and back to playing sports like basketball after 6 weeks.
Probably ok to work out after 2 weeks without vigorous straining or valsalva (squats), for fear of a nosebleed. But best to ask your doctor. Good luck!

Anup Dhir, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. This will depend on the extent of the surgery on your nose. The usual practice is to allow light exercise 3 weeks after surgery and heavy exercise about 6 weeks after surgery. It may be best to follow the advice of your surgeon.therhinoplastysurgeon.com

When can I start lifting weights after a rhinoplasty?

Answers (8)

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