Can I go swimming after breast reduction?

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.  I usually restrict vigorous activity as such for about 4 weeks.  Regardless, the answer will vary amongst plastic surgeons and you should discuss this with your surgeon and follow his/her instructions. Best wishes!

You should wait at least three weeks before swimming if you have a breast reduction.  Intense exercise may be resumed at around the six week mark.  Use your own judgment and be reasonable about your activity.

I would wait for at least 2 months before starting up with swimming -like lap swimming-that way you know you are fully healed

Patients that undergo most plastic surgery procedures should avoid vigorous workout acitivities for at least 6-8 weeks.  If wounds have not healed, then they shoudl wait a bit longer.

There are several surgical techniques associated with breast reduction surgery and most of them involve incisions on the breast.  You need to allow your body sufficient healing time following this surgery.  Assuming your post-operative course is uneventful and your healing is normal, I believe you could return to swimming and submerge the breasts after six weeks (but every patient heals differently).  Small areas of delayed healing may require a slightly longer period of recovery and may delay your return to swimming a bit longer.  Please be sure to have a board-certified plastic surgeon discuss your options regarding breast reduction surgery.