After breast augmentation, Many women wonder when they'll be able to resume their sporting activities. This is a crucial issue, as resuming sport too quickly or in the wrong way can compromise the results of the operation. Here we take a look at the various stages involved in returning to sport safely, and at which activities should be maintained or avoided.
Rest after breast augmentation is essential for proper healing. Internal and external sutures need to consolidate, and too much physical effort could lead to complications such as wound opening or implant malposition.
Returning to sport too soon can lead to bruising, infection or displacement of the breast implants. Women who have undergone sub-muscular breast augmentation need to be particularly vigilant, as physical exertion places a direct strain on the pectoral muscles.
A gradual resumption of physical activity allows you to slowly restore your physical condition without jeopardizing the results of the operation. Walking or gentle exercise can be beneficial from the very first weeks, subject to Dr. Jérémy Djian's recommendations.
Respecting the recovery steps considerably reduces the risk of complications. A measured approach limits tension on the breast and preserves implant positioning.
During the first two weeks, it is essential to avoid all physical activity, even slight ones. This includes carrying heavy loads, sudden movements and exercises involving the arms or upper body.
Your plastic surgeon, Dr. Djian, will provide you with precise instructions. It is essential to wear a suitable post-operative bra, to hold the implants in place and support the breasts.
Walking is the ideal activity for gently stimulating blood circulation without traumatizing the operated area. Breathing and relaxation exercises can also be performed.
It's crucial to avoid movements that strain the pectoral muscles. This includes sports such as intensive yoga or stretching exercises requiring excessive extension of the arms.
After six weeks, activities such as gentle yoga, Pilates or swimming (after approval by the surgeon) can be considered. These sports help to strengthen the body without exerting excessive pressure on the chest.
Walking remains an excellent way of staying active throughout the recovery process. However, you should avoid fast climbs or demanding hikes.
Contact sports, CrossFit and running should be avoided until Doctor Jérémy Djian has given the green light.
Once the 3-month period has elapsed, you can resume high-impact sports such as running or combat sports, provided you have good physical tolerance and medical support. Regular post-operative follow-up remains essential. Before resuming strenuous activities, make sure your surgeon has validated the healing and stability of the implants.
Gentle yoga, walking, swimming (under medical supervision)
These activities allow you to work on your flexibility and physical condition, while respecting your body. However, swimming should only be undertaken after a doctor's approval, to avoid any risk of infection.
CrossFit, running, contact sports
These sports, although very popular, should be taken up with great caution. They exert a great deal of pressure on the torso, which can adversely affect implant stability.
Download the infographic which lists all the sports recommended, avoided or banned after breast augmentation.
Returning to sport after breast augmentation is a process that requires patience and care. Following medical recommendations and respecting the recovery stages will enable you to return to your favorite activities while preserving the results of your surgery.
Cycling can be resumed approximately 4 to 6 weeks after the operation, provided you avoid heavy shocks and wear a suitable support bra. The more stable exercise bike is recommended before resuming outdoor cycling, where vibrations and upper-body movements are more pronounced.
Yes, exercise in water is generally better tolerated, as it reduces impact and supports the body. However, it is imperative to wait until the wound has healed completely, i.e. 4 to 6 weeks, before resuming aquagym or aquabike. What's more, early immersion in water can increase the risk of infection. Ask Dr Djian for advice.
Carrying heavy loads, including a backpack or baby, is not recommended for the first 6 weeks to avoid excessive pressure on pectoral muscles and scars. After that, it's advisable to resume gradually and listen to your body to avoid pain and tension.
Yes, a breast lift involves more extensive healing and additional tension on the skin. Resuming physical activity must therefore be even more gradual. It is often advisable to wait 6 to 8 weeks before resuming sport, paying particular attention to exercises that put strain on the breasts.
Sports involving repetitive movements of the arms and shoulders directly stress the pectoral muscles, which can :
Signs of too-rapid recovery include:
If such symptoms occur, consult your surgeon immediately.
A breast implant may shift as a result of excessive strain on the pectoral muscles. Signs to watch out for are :
If in doubt, consult your surgeon.
Yes, optimal overall physical condition promotes faster recovery thanks to improved blood circulation, muscle tone and tissue elasticity. However, this does not exempt you from respecting medical recommendations concerning the resumption of sporting activities after surgery.
Dr. Jérémy Djian is a plastic surgeon based at 5 Square Thiers, near the Victor Hugo roundabout in Paris's 16th arrondissement.
He trained in Paris and remains affiliated with the hospital in the prestigious department headed by Prof. Laurent Lantieri.
