Breast augmentation, a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to increase a woman’s breast size, is most prevalent in America. For women who feel their breasts are too small or have lost volume in their bust after pregnancy, breast augmentation can be a way to regain self-confidence and potentially change the course of their life.
When it comes to internal breast lift procedures, the recovery time can be extended for several months. However, if you are considering breast augmentation through implants, this is a more straightforward process with less downtime. With few exceptions, most women can return to work within one or two days following surgery. Those who have had internal lifts must allow more time to recover, typically at least two to three weeks.
It includes typical desk jobs that require limited physical activity and where there is no heavy lifting
Before you schedule an appointment with your local plastic surgeon, one of the first questions you might ask is: Can I exercise after getting breast augmentation?
The answer to this question depends on your specific procedure and your doctor’s recommendation. Read on to get an idea of when you can start working out after surgery and understand how it will impact your recovery process.
What type of breast augmentation will I get?
Before deciding when to start exercising, your doctor needs to examine you and assess your procedure options. The type of breast augmentation surgery you choose is likely based on the amount of breast volume you desire and whether or not you want a lift.
There are three main types of breast implants:
1. Memory Gel Implants
These implants are the most popular option, used in approximately 90% of procedures. Using silicone gel to create an implant, memory gel implants use a low-profile device that typically requires little to no postoperative care.
2. Saline Implants
These devices are also made with silicone but use fluid saline to increase the volume of your breasts. Saline implants are more likely to require removal after ten years because the saline tends to deflate over time.
3. Silicone Gel-Filled Saline Implant
The newest type of breast augmentation surgery, this implant, combines the other two types. The implant has both silicone gel and fluid saline. It should not require additional surgery to replace the saline over time.
What is my recovery going to be like?
The amount of time you need to recover from breast augmentation surgery varies depending on your procedure type and your surgeon’s recommendations.
Typically, however, you should expect some downtime before returning to a routine:
Memory gel implants typically require less recovery time. Patients usually return to work two weeks after surgery and resume more strenuous activities like exercising in about four to six weeks.
Saline implants may require a longer recovery. Since saline implants deflate over time, most doctors recommend waiting for them to settle before returning to normal activities ultimately. It could take up to three months after surgery.
Silicone breast implants are the final option. Before returning to normal activities, you should allow your breasts to heal and recover from surgery. It could take up to six weeks after your procedure.
How will my recovery affect my workout routine?
The recovery process is an essential factor in determining how long it will be before starting working out again. During recovery, you will need time to heal and regain strength in your body before challenging it with strenuous activities like working out.
Maintaining an active lifestyle is the best way to ensure a successful surgery and a speedy recovery; however, some activities can slow down or damage your progress while recovering from breast augmentation.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Your body needs time to heal. In the weeks following surgery, your breasts will be more sensitive and may not feel comfortable when you hit the gym. You should wait until you have a full range of motion before working out again. Depending on your procedure type, it could take up to four weeks after surgery.
- Patients who receive memory gel implants typically have an easier time returning to regular activity after surgery, so you may be able to start your workout routine sooner.
- If you plan on having breast enlargement surgery, it is best to plan your recovery time accordingly. Start working out again when you feel comfortable, which could be up to six weeks after surgery or longer if recommended by your surgeon.
- Keep in mind that the average entire recovery period takes around three months, so try not to stress about your workout routine too much. If you have any post-op concerns, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Breast augmentation surgery is one of America’s most popular cosmetic surgeries, thanks to its simple revision process and minimal downtime. However, with so many options on the market, patients may feel overwhelmed when it comes time for their breast enlargement procedure.
By understanding your options and learning how they impact recovery, you can choose the perfect breast augmentation for you.