I am 2 weeks post op from my breast augmentation. Am I OK to have a spa bath or not?

Question

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Short answer: Why take the risk? If any bacteria make their way into ANY microscopic spot in either incision that is not completely durable, waterproof, and bacteria-resistant, there is a chance your implant(s) could become infected. Since implants do not have their own natural antibodies, blood flow, and resistance to bacterial contamination, infected implants are not easily treated with antibiotics, and implant removal is the proper way to treat implant infection. Then, after healing is complete, and your scarring has settled, perhaps your surgeon can re-insert your implant(s). Weeks to months later. Who gets to pay for that? And, who has to endure the hassle? One implant in, and the other out? Is it really worth it???So, you can see that with the variation of answers here, my colleagues have either never seen a breast augmentation infection after spa or hot tub or lake, stream, or ocean exposure . . . or they have experienced one, and never hope to have to again.I have personally never had an elective first-time breast augmentation patient develop an infection in the 28 years I have been in private practice, but I've taken care of a couple from other doctors who have treated their patients with antibiotics, stronger antibiotics, Infectious Disease consultations, Home IV antibiotics via indwelling catheter, and everything short of the effective and appropriate treatment--implant removal.So I understand reluctance to allow spa use too soon, and frankly, at two weeks, your incisions may not be durable enough for pressure jets and the softening that occurs with even a few minutes of immersion (who takes a 5-minute spa bath?).If your healing if perfect, and that means no drainage, scabs, crusts, or any sign of "not yet sealed" incisions, I still recommend at least three weeks waiting. 6 weeks may be overkill, but I truly get that recommendation. So ask your surgeon, follow that recommendation, and don't "push it!" Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

The answer to your question is variable as each surgeon has their own preference and or protocols post operative. Patients can generally submerge in water at 4 - 6 weeks postop. It is best to direct this to yoru chosen surgeon,

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question! On average, a period of approximately 3-6 weeks 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. Regardless, the answer will vary amongst plastic surgeons and you should discuss this with your surgeon and follow his/her instructions. Best wishes!

Richard H. Fryer, MD · Answer

This is a great question.  You cannot immerse yourself in a body of water until your incisions are completely healed.  Which means no scabbing and no open areas in your incisions.  Once your incisions have healed completely then you are fine to go head and take bath, go swimming, spa, etc.  The reason for this is because you having an increase risk of getting an infection if those incisions are not healed completely.If you would like more information regarding breast augmentation and the recovery process you can download a free copy of my breast augmentation planner at ABetterBreast.com.Best of luck.

Christopher J. Morea, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I believe it is perfectly safe for you to have a spa bath at 2 weeks post operatively. Best of luck

I am 2 weeks post op from my breast augmentation. Am I OK to have a spa bath or not?

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Answer: Spa or Bath after breast augmentation

Answer: Spa or Bath after breast augmentation

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I am 2 weeks post op from my breast augmentation. Am I OK to have a spa bath or not?

Answers (7)

Answer: Spa or Bath after breast augmentation

Answer: Spa or Bath after breast augmentation

Answer: Spa bath

Answer: Spa bath

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Breast Augmentation

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.