What are the activity restrictions following a fat transfer breast augmentation?

Thank you for your question! For my patients having fat transfer to the breasts, I recommend they take 10 days off of work, 3 weeks off of cardio at the gym, and 6 weeks off of weight training and yoga exercises. During the first 6 weeks post op, I recommend they wear a soft, comfortable bra that doesn’t compress the breasts too much. The only other bra restriction is no underwire for 6 weeks. For stomach sleeping, playing volleyball, and other strenuous activities, I also recommend waiting 6 weeks post op. It is always best to discuss specific post op questions and instructions with your plastic surgeon. Best of luck!

Hello and thank you for your question. Your surgeon is the only person who can give you precise instructions on your recovery process. Every surgeon has their own procedural methods and aftercare guidelines that are designed to provide you with the best results possible. In general, most surgeons agree that patients should wait about three to six weeks following fat transfer breast augmentation before wearing normal bras and carefully resuming strenuous exercise.


Be sure to follow all of your plastic surgeon’s guidelines and contact them should you have any questions about your recovery. Hope this helps!

The only opinion that matters is that of your PS as he/she will know the extent of your surgery and how you are recovering.Recovery is usually relatively quick. You will wear a sports bra for about six weeks, starting immediately after surgery. You will need at least 6 weeks before you will realize your result. Many of my patients return to work after 4 - 7 days if that work is non strenuous and sedentary.  Vigorous exercise should be postponed for two weeks. Some of the retention rate will depend upon the amount of fat transferred, as smaller volumes will likely have a higher survival.
Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
Los Angeles, CA

Following a fat transfer breast augmentation, it's essential to follow your plastic surgeon's specific post-operative instructions for optimal healing and results. While these instructions may vary depending on individual circumstances and the plastic surgeon's preferences, here are some common activity restrictions that may be recommended:
1. Avoid Strenuous Activities: During the initial recovery period, typically the first few weeks after surgery, it's crucial to avoid strenuous activities that could strain the surgical site or increase blood pressure. This includes heavy lifting, vigorous exercise, and activities that involve bending or stretching the chest muscles.
2. Limit Arm Movement: Your plastic surgeon may advise limiting arm movement, especially lifting the arms above shoulder level, to minimize strain on the chest area and promote healing.
3. Wear Compression Garments: Compression garments or a supportive bra may be recommended to help reduce swelling, provide support to the breasts, and promote proper healing of the transferred fat cells.
4. Avoid Sleeping on Your Stomach or Sides: Sleeping on your back with your upper body elevated may be recommended to minimize pressure on the breasts and facilitate healing. Avoid sleeping on your stomach or sides, which could put pressure on the surgical sites.
5. Gradual Return to Physical Activity: After the initial recovery period, your plastic surgeon may gradually allow you to resume light activities and exercise. However, it's essential to follow their guidance and avoid activities that could compromise the results of the procedure.
6. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol consumption can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications. It's essential to avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake during the recovery period.
7. Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon are essential to monitor your progress, address any concerns, and ensure proper healing. Be sure to attend all scheduled appointments and communicate any changes or issues you may experience.
It's essential to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions diligently to promote a smooth recovery and achieve the best possible results from your fat transfer breast augmentation. If you have any questions or concerns about activity restrictions or the recovery process, don't hesitate to contact your plastic surgeon for guidance and clarification.

Thank you for your question. Every PS will have very different post operative instructions. I recommend following the PS whom you had surgery and not everything you read on line. Each PS may have a small tweak in a procedure thus warranting a specific post op routine. For best results, I always recommend the PS who performed the surgery. Best of luck with your recovery.

as we all have our own protocols for how to heal following fat grafting.  My protocols are simple, avoid bouncy/vibration to the area grafted and do not sit or lay on it for at least 3 weeks.  So that means no running or high impact aerobics and laying on your chest if you have it to your breasts.  At 3 weeks post-grafting, I let my patients do as they please.

I am glad that you like your surgeon. He/she is the only person that you should take advice from early after surgery as they know exactly what you had done. I am more liberal after this procedure, so prefer not to go against anything your surgeon might recommend. 

Thanks for your great question and your interest in your recovery process.  Each surgeon has their own recovery instructions, so it is always best to talk with him or her and understand what is expected of you during your recovery.  This will get you the best result. Usually, the surgeon likes you to be conservative the first few weeks or month after this procedure, but once again, check with your surgeon.  Best of luck.

Hello and thank you for your question.
Your plastic surgeon will have the best postop activity guidelines for you as he has first-hand information as to how he performed your fat transfer. Generally speaking, however, patients will typically wait several weeks prior to engaging in any strenuous physical activity to allow ample time for the grafted fat to establish its new blood circulation and take. Although every patient varies, the final results of fat grafting to the breasts are usually appreciated at about 3-4 months.
Best wishes!
Olivier A. Deigni, MD, MPH
Houston Plastic Surgeon