Exercise Timeline After Breast Augmentation

Returning to exercise is a common concern for many patients, and all of us at Colorado Plastic Surgery Center certainly support the goals of health and fitness and strive to get patients back to their exercise routines as soon as possible. It is important, however, to allow yourself to heal and to always “listen” very carefully to your body and progress activity a little at a time.

Here is a general timeline that patients find helpful before and after their breast augmentation procedure:

3-5 Days — Return to non-physical work and very light activity. Plan to still have some soreness and know that you will get tired more easily. I do encourage patients to use their arms, so as to maintain full range of motion of the arms.

1 Week Post-Op Visit — If a bra is being worn, we will assess whether to continue its use or discontinue the bra and apply an elastic band (if we are desiring more downward movement of the implant). You will visit with our peri-operative therapist, Pam, for a 1-hour session and she will begin very light lymphatic and breast tissue massage as well as provide instructions on performing self-massage. You can return to light activity, including gentle stretching, increased walking, and sexual relations, as long as these can be done comfortably. Unfortunately, it often takes longer for the breasts to become more comfortable for sexual play.

2 Weeks — Return to moderate activity. Light-impact cardio exercise and some yoga postures and stretching are appropriate. An elliptical trainer or spin bike are a good place to start. Begin to increase light massage to the breasts.

4 Weeks — Begin a gradual return to full lower-body activity. You may start back to running if the breasts are comfortable while wearing a supportive athletic bra.

6-Week Post-Op Visit — We evaluate implant position and relaxation of the breasts and create a plan for you accordingly. Sometimes we are near optimal position and go into a support bra. Other times we need more movement and increase the downward massage of the breasts. We may even recommend another peri-op session with Pam. Begin a gradual return to full activity, including upper body.

6 Months — Okay to discontinue breast massage.

To learn more about a Breast Augmentation procedure and what to expect from consultation to final results, view our Breast Surgery Timeline.

To see results from our patients who have had breast augmentation procedures, view our Before and After Photo Gallery or learn more about your options by contacting us to schedule a breast surgery consultation.