When to Resume Exercise after Breast Reduction Surgery
Breast reduction surgery, or reduction mammoplasty, is a medical procedure aimed at reducing the size of overly large breasts. It’s a relief for those who experience physical discomfort and emotional distress due to their large breast size. You may have struggled with back pain, neck pain, skin irritation, and difficulty finding clothes that fit. Above all, it’s the self-consciousness that often comes with having excessively large breasts that may have led you to consider breast reduction surgery. However, this surgical procedure is not without its challenges. It involves removing excess breast fat, glandular tissue, and skin to achieve a breast size in proportion with your body. The surgery also aims at alleviating the discomfort associated with overly large breasts. It’s a significant procedure, and as with any surgery, it requires time and patience for recovery. If you are wondering when to resume exercise after breast reduction surgery, the answer depends on several factors.
Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna is a highly skilled and respected plastic surgeon based in Chester, UK, who is dedicated to providing top-tier care for her patients. Among her specialisations is breast reduction surgery, an area in which she has accumulated considerable experience and achieved successful results. Beyond breast reductions, Anca Breahna also offers a comprehensive range of other breast procedures, including breast augmentation, mastopexy (breast lift), and breast reconstruction.
Download Miss Anca Breahna Breast Reduction Guide
Exercise after Breast Reduction Surgery
Exercise after breast reduction surgery is essential, but it’s important to understand that it’s a delicate balance. On one hand, exercise can help strengthen your body, increase blood circulation, and speed up the healing process. On the other hand, too much too soon can interfere with your recovery.
Exercise aids in relieving stress and promoting a sense of well-being. It boosts your mood and energy levels, aiding in faster recovery. More than this, exercise can help reduce the risk of blood clots, a common post-surgery risk, by promoting good blood flow.
Keep in mind that exercising after a major surgery like breast reduction requires a careful approach. You have to understand the recovery process, know when it’s safe to start exercising, and what kind of exercises you can do.
Recovery after Breast Reduction Surgery
Recovery after breast reduction surgery is a gradual process. It requires patience, self-care, and a keen understanding of your body’s signals. Immediately after the surgery, you will be bandaged and wearing a surgical bra. You might experience pain, swelling, and bruising, which are normal post-operative symptoms.
During the first few days of recovery, rest is crucial. Your body needs time to heal, and any strenuous activity could disrupt the healing process. It’s essential to follow your consultant plastic surgeon’s instructions regarding rest, medication, wound care, and follow-up appointments.
The recovery timeline varies from person to person, depending on various factors like age, overall health, and the surgical technique used. Most people can return to work and resume light activities within two weeks post-surgery.
Timeline for Exercising Post-Breast Reduction Surgery
Now that you understand the recovery process, let’s talk about the safe timeline for exercising post-breast reduction surgery. Remember, it’s crucial to consult with your consultant plastic surgeon before starting any exercise regimen. She will provide a detailed timeline based on your personal recovery progress.
Generally, light walking can be initiated as soon as you feel comfortable, usually within a few days after surgery. More strenuous activities should be avoided for at least a month. This includes any exercise that strains your upper body, such as lifting weights, push-ups, or high-intensity cardio workouts.
Exercises You Can Do Immediately After Breast Reduction Surgery
So, what exercises can you do immediately after breast reduction surgery? As stated earlier, light walking can be initiated within a few days post-surgery. This helps keep your blood circulating, which aids in healing and reduces the risk of blood clots.
You may also do gentle range-of-motion exercises for your arms. These can help prevent stiffness and maintain flexibility. However, avoid any movements that strain your chest or upper body.
Remember to start slow. Listen to your body. If you feel any discomfort or pain, stop immediately and rest.
When to Start Moderate Exercises after Breast Reduction Surgery
Once your consultant plastic surgeon gives the go-ahead, usually around two to three weeks post-surgery, you can start incorporating moderate exercises into your routine. This includes low-impact exercises like cycling.
Again, avoid exercises that strain your upper body or cause discomfort. The goal is to gradually increase your activity level without interfering with your healing process.
When to Start High-Intensity Exercises after Breast Reduction Surgery
High-intensity exercises, like running, weightlifting, or high-impact sports, should be avoided until at least six weeks post-surgery. Even then, it’s important to reintroduce these activities gradually and with your consultant plastic surgeon’s approval.
Listen to your body. If you feel any pain or discomfort, stop and rest. Your body will tell you when it’s ready for more rigorous activities.
Tips for Exercising Safely After Breast Reduction Surgery
Exercising safely after breast reduction surgery is crucial. Here are some tips:
- Start slow and gradually increase your activity level
- Listen to your body. If you feel pain or discomfort, stop and rest
- Stay hydrated
- Wear a supportive bra during workouts to protect your breasts
- Always warm up before exercising and cool down afterwards
- Consult with your plastic surgeon before starting any new exercise regimen
The Role of Exercise after Breast Reduction Surgery
Exercise plays a key role in maintaining the results after breast reduction surgery. It helps tone your upper body, maintain a healthy weight, and improve your overall physical health.
Regular exercise can also boost your self-confidence and body image, contributing to your emotional well-being. It’s a vital part of your journey towards a healthier, more comfortable life.
Breast reduction surgery can offer relief from physical discomfort and emotional distress. However, the journey doesn’t end with the surgery. Understanding the safe timeline for exercising post-breast reduction surgery is crucial for a successful recovery and maintaining your results. Remember to consult with your plastic surgeon, listen to your body, and exercise safely. Your health and well-being are worth the effort.
FAQs about Breast Reduction Surgery
What does the breast reduction procedure involve?
- Breast reduction surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and takes about 2-5 hours. Your plastic surgeon makes incisions on your breasts and removes excess breast tissue, fat, and skin to reduce their size. The nipples and areolas may also be repositioned or resized. Once the desired size is achieved, the incisions are closed.
Will there be visible scarring after breast reduction surgery?
- While modern techniques aim to minimise visible scarring, all surgical procedures will leave some scars. The extent and visibility of scarring depend on the surgical technique used and the individual’s healing process. Most scars gradually fade over time and can be hidden under a swimsuit or bra.
Can I breastfeed after a breast reduction surgery?
- The ability to breastfeed after a breast reduction surgery varies for each individual. Some surgical techniques preserve more of the breast tissue and milk ducts connected to the nipples, improving the chances of breastfeeding. It’s important to discuss this with your plastic surgeon if you plan to breastfeed in the future.
How is the new size of my breasts determined during the procedure?
- The new size of your breasts is decided upon during consultations with your plastic surgeon. This will be based on your body frame, weight, height, and personal preference, as well as medical considerations. The aim is usually to achieve a size that is proportional to your body and relieves any symptoms you may have been experiencing due to overly large breasts.
What happens if I gain weight or become pregnant after a breast reduction?
- Significant weight gain or pregnancy can potentially alter the results of a breast reduction surgery, as both can cause the breasts to increase in size. While this does not pose any health risks, it could lead to changes in breast shape and size. It’s important to maintain a stable weight after surgery to retain the results, and discuss future pregnancy plans with your consultant plastic surgeon.
Further Reading about Breast Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anca Breahna
- Read Anca’s Breast Reduction Surgery Page
- Read Anca’s Breast Asymmetry Surgery Page
- Read Anca’s Blog How to Reduce Scars after Breast Reduction Surgery
- Read Anca’s Blog Plastic Surgery Procedures to Get Bigger Breasts
- Read Anca’s Macromastia/ Large Breasts Page
- Read Anca’s Blog on Breast Reduction for Adolescents and Young Women
- Read Anca’s Blog on Back, Shoulder and Neck Pain caused by Large Breasts
- Read Anca’s Blog on Who Is the World’s Best Breast Reduction Surgeon?
- Read Anca’s Blog on Breast Reduction Surgery and Age: Considerations for Different Life Stages
- Read Anca’s Blog on How to Choose the Right Size for Breast Reduction
Medical References for Breast Reduction Surgery
- Breast Reduction Surgery – WebMD
- Breast Reduction Surgery | Johns Hopkins Medicine
- Breast Reduction (female) – NHS
- Breast Reduction | American Society of Plastic Surgeons
- Breast reduction surgery – Mayo Clinic
Back to blog
Ms Anca Breahna, PhD, MSc, FEBOPRAS, FRCS (Plast) is a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in the field of Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery. Anca performs a range of 
