Breast augmentation, also known as augmentation mammoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves placing breast implants under the breast tissue or chest muscle to increase breast size. It is important to walk and move around after a breast augmentation procedure to promote healing and prevent complications.
When can you start walking after surgery?
Most plastic surgeons recommend starting to walk short distances the day after your breast augmentation surgery. You will be encouraged to get out of bed and take short walks around your home, increasing the distance gradually over the first week. This helps prevent blood clots, improves circulation, and gets your body moving again. Here are some general guidelines on when you can start walking after surgery:
- Day 1 after surgery: Take a few short walks around your home, starting with just a lap or two. Go slowly and have someone assist you.
- Day 2: Take short 10-15 minute walks 2-3 times during the day. Walk slowly and carefully.
- Day 3: Start taking slightly longer walks, about 20-30 minutes 2-3 times daily.
- Day 4-7: Continue increasing walking time and distance. Walk for 30-60 minutes 2-3 times a day.
Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on when to start walking based on your individual case. It’s important to start slow and not overexert yourself too soon after surgery. Always listen to your body and stop if you feel pain or dizziness.
How often should you walk each day after surgery?
During the first 1-2 weeks after your breast augmentation, it is recommended to walk for at least 20-30 minutes 2-3 times per day. Going for short, frequent walks is better than one long walk. Start with a 10-15 minute stroll and work your way up to longer walks. Here are some general guidelines on walking frequency:
- Week 1: Walk for 20-30 minutes 2-3 times daily
- Week 2: Walk for 30-45 minutes 2-3 times daily
- Week 3: Walk for 45-60 minutes 2-3 times daily
- Week 4: Walk for 45-60 minutes at least 3 times daily
Make sure to take rest breaks as needed between walks to avoid overexertion. Increase the length and frequency of your walks gradually. By 4-6 weeks after surgery, you should be able to resume your normal everyday walking routine.
Tips for walking after breast augmentation
Here are some tips to follow when walking after your breast augmentation surgery:
- Walk slowly at an easy, comfortable pace. Don’t rush.
- Keep your posture upright but relaxed. Don’t hunch over.
- Wear a supportive bra or compression garment when walking.
- If you feel pain or strain, slow down or stop walking.
- Rest between walks to avoid fatigue.
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids.
- Have someone accompany you for the first few walks.
- Avoid bouncing or high-impact motions.
Make sure to listen to your body. If you feel pain, swelling, or general discomfort when walking, take a break. Don’t push yourself too hard. Walking should feel therapeutic, not painful. Staying active at a sensible pace will benefit your recovery.
When can you resume normal activity after surgery?
Here is a general timeline for resuming normal daily activities after breast augmentation:
| Activity | Timeframe to Resume |
|---|---|
| Light walking | 1-2 days after surgery |
| Regular walking routine | 2-4 weeks after surgery |
| Driving | 1-2 weeks after surgery |
| Light household chores | 1 week after surgery |
| Lower body exercise | 3-4 weeks after surgery |
| Upper body exercise | 4-6 weeks after surgery |
| Swimming | 4-6 weeks after surgery |
| High-impact exercise | 6-8 weeks after surgery |
| Sexual activity | 4-6 weeks after surgery |
Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions on when you can resume normal activity. Timeframes vary based on the extent of your procedure and your individual healing process. Listen to your body and ease back into activities gradually.
Benefits of walking after breast augmentation
Here are some of the benefits of walking regularly after your breast augmentation surgery:
- Improves circulation: Walking gets the blood flowing, helping deliver oxygen and nutrients throughout the body to promote healing.
- Prevents blood clots: Light activity reduces the risk of dangerous blood clots developing in the legs.
- Eases muscle tension: Walking releases muscle tension and stiffness that can occur after surgery.
- Helps manage pain: Light exercise can help reduce postoperative pain and discomfort.
- Supports recovery: Walking aids the recovery process by gently engaging the muscles.
- Improves mood: Getting light exercise outdoors can boost your mood after surgery.
- Aids implant settling: Walking helps breast implants drop into position naturally.
Be sure to start with short walks and increase distance and duration gradually. Don’t overexert yourself too quickly. When done appropriately, walking can significantly benefit your recovery and results.
Risks of overdoing activity after surgery
While light walking is encouraged after breast augmentation, overdoing activity too soon carries risks. Potential risks include:
- Increased swelling and bruising
- Delayed wound healing
- Implant displacement or rupture
- Development of seromas
- Incision opening
- Increased pain or soreness
- Fatigue and muscle strain
- Poor scarring
That’s why it’s crucial to ease back into exercise gradually and follow your surgeon’s specific guidelines. Restrictions are in place for a reason—to allow your body to heal properly. Walking should not cause pain. Listen to your body and avoid any bouncing or high-impact motions.
Signs you may be overdoing it
Pay attention to these signs that you may be walking or exercising too much after surgery:
- Breast pain and tenderness
- Increased swelling and bruising
- Incision pain or opening
- Bleeding from the incision site
- Redness around the incision
- Dizziness or fainting
- Nausea or vomiting
- Extreme fatigue after walking
- Shortness of breath
- Racing or irregular heartbeat
If you experience any of these warning signs, stop walking immediately and take a rest. Avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours. Call your plastic surgeon if symptoms persist, as you may need an in-office follow-up visit.
Tips for safe walking after surgery
Here are some tips for walking safely after your breast augmentation:
- Follow your surgeon’s post-op guidelines for activity
- Start with short, frequent walks
- Increase distance and duration gradually
- Walk slowly at an easy, relaxed pace
- Wear a supportive surgical bra
- Keep your posture upright
- Stop if you feel pain or dizziness
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids
- Listen to your body and rest when needed
- Don’t lift anything heavy
- Ask a friend or family member to accompany you
Walking promotes blood flow to surgical areas and prevents complications like blood clots. But take care not to overexert yourself, as this can impede wound healing. If in doubt, take it slow for optimal recovery.
When to call your doctor about walking after surgery
Contact your plastic surgeon right away if you experience:
- Fever above 101 F
- Excessive swelling, redness, pain or heat around the incision sites
- Moderate to severe pain not relieved by medication
- Bleeding, fluid leakage or opening of the incisions
- Chest pain when walking
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing during or after walking
- Dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting after walking
- Extreme fatigue preventing you from walking
These could indicate an infection, adverse reaction or other complication requiring medical treatment. Your doctor can evaluate any issues and adjust your walking and activity recommendations accordingly.
Conclusion
Walking is an important part of the recovery process after breast augmentation surgery. Start with short, frequent walks the day after surgery. Gradually increase the duration and distance of your walks over the first several weeks. Aim for 20-30 minute walks 2-3 times a day during the first 1-2 weeks. Listen to your body, rest when needed, and avoid any strenuous activity. Staying active at a sensible pace will support healing and give you the best results.