When is it really safe to start weight training again after a face and neck lift?

Question

I had a facelift 4 weeks ago. My doctor says it's OK to workout 2 weeks post op. I've had many surgeries due to an accident I was in a few years ago & was surprised as most will actually say Months! I'm concerned after having a neck lift and particularly the platysma bands tightened that training will damage or effect the results. I also get bad head aches from the tightened muscles up around the jaw up the head and wonder if training will tighten these and exasperate things.

Brock Ridenour, MD · Answer

I am pleased that you asked this question because it highlights the fact that there is no clear consensus among surgeons when it comes to post-operative care. Most agree that strenuous activity in the first two weeks following face-lift seems ill-advised. After that there is considerable variability.
I encourage my patients to walk and 'move about' beginning as early as one week following surgery. At two weeks, I permit my patients to begin light exercise.  They are advised  to respect pain and to modify any exercise that creates a feeling of intense "pulling or strain" in the face or neck, such as with some Yoga positions. However, I do think that light (careful) stretching and elongation of the neck can be beneficial if properly done. At four weeks I think most patients can resume their normal exercise programs.  As with any period of inactivity, it is always best to begin gradually and slowly increase the intensity of exercise over time.  I wish you the best.

Philip Solomon, MD, FRCS · Answer

Good question. Every surgeon may have differing opinions on this question.  I tell my patients they can proceed with light, moderate exercise 2 weeks following facelift surgery and then return to their regular exercise routine, 4 weeks post-op.Best of luck,Dr Philip Solomon

David Gilpin, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The recovery time after a facelift is different for each patient.  However, I typically advise my patients to refrain from strenuous exercise for a period of 4 weeks after surgery.  This does not mean that it may be still be safe for some patients to resume after 2 weeks.  However, I believe that 4 weeks is a good starting point for when you can start with exercise. Be sure to discuss your questions and concerns with your surgeon, as only he/she knows exactly what will happen with your surgery. I hope that this helps!-David Gilpin

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Each surgeon will have their own protocol on how much time they want their patients to rest before resuming full activity. I personally feel that two weeks of minimal activity, followed by two additional weeks of very gradual increasing activity, so that at one month you can resume full normal activity works well for me. This allows the tissues to heal and minimizes any potential complications.  Gradually increasing the intensity of your activity will allow you to work within your comfort range. Be sure to ask your surgeon what they think is best and follow that advice.  Best wishes

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

Everyone heals differently, it is best to follow your surgeons instructions who knows you best. For my patients I want them to wait 4 to 6 weeks before resuming any type of formal exercise, and then to advance slowly. Good luck.

J. Phillip Garcia, MD, FACS · Answer

I usually tell patients that they may resume all of their activities (even strenuous workouts) two weeks after surgery.  It's important to begin movement even if it feels tight.  I always reassure my patients that nothing will tear or fall down if they go back to normal activities.  Best of luck with your recovery.

P. Daniel Ward, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question! Four weeks is usually sufficient healing to begin weight training again. Are usually tell people to use their own body as a guide. If it hurts, don’t do it. If it doesn’t hurt, then it is probably safe. I would start with light training and slowly work your way up if your body does not alert you, with pain, that it is too early to start again.

Amir Nakhdjevani, MBBS, MRCS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Hi Eatsleepmove,Thanks for sharing your question with us,Keep in mind that every case is different, and your Surgeon will advise you, the timeline recommendations may vary slightly.
You should always default to your surgeons suggestions and feel free to ask questions if something seems unclear.

After four weeks, you can start Exercising, you can start light walking first and then slowly build up. With a facelift it is important not to bend over and increase pressure in your face for several weeks after surgery.  
Keep up with your Follow ups, this will give you the opportunity to discuss your progress.Hope this HelpsAll the best

Jill Hessler, MD · Answer

Depending on the extent of your surgery, I have most patients resume light exercise at 2 weeks and then advance to full exercise gradually at a month. Most importantly you want to progress as you feel comfortable. You likely will notice you feel tired more quickly after resuming exercise. This is common after surgery and exacerbated by the 2-4 week interruption of your exercise training.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

eatsleepmore.  I appreciate your concern however at this stage, four weeks postop, you should be able to resume all normal activities, including exercise and weightlifting. I recommend that you start slowly for the first week or so and gradually work up to your normal workout regimen. Most patients experience the feeling of a tight neck after this surgery and it will improve with time whether you lift weights or not. Confirm my advice with your plastic surgeon. Good luck!

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