After a breast augmentation, when can I start exercising again?

To resume physical activity after a breast augmentation, it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s advice. Every body is different, and understanding how yours responds to surgery is key. That's why it's important to trust the professionals and follow their recommendations to ensure optimal recovery. Postoperative recovery should always include regular follow-up visits with your surgeon, who will provide the necessary instructions and guidance. Generally, full recovery takes about four weeks after the procedure. High-intensity exercise or sports involving significant physical effort—especially in the chest area—should be avoided during this time. Recovery time before resuming exercise also depends largely on the type of breast implant used.

Types of implants

If the implant is placed under the muscle (submuscular), recovery tends to take longer. If the implant is placed in a subfascial or subglandular position, patients may be able to return to physical activity even before the four-week mark.

When can I run or do high-impact workouts after breast surgery?

As mentioned earlier, the most important thing is to ask your surgeon any questions you may have during your postoperative process. Your surgeon knows your specific case best and can assess how your recovery is progressing. In general, to resume high-impact activities such as running, aerobics, or step classes, you’ll typically need to wait at least two months after surgery. For gym-based workouts like weightlifting, spinning, abdominal exercises, or general fitness routines, it will depend on how your body feels, the type of movement involved, and most importantly your surgeon’s advice. In any case, the minimum recovery period is about one month.

Best exercises after breast augmentation

Once you've had your breast augmentation surgery, the best way to reintroduce physical activity is with gentle options like yoga or pilates. These are safe as long as they’re practiced without overexertion or muscle strain.

The next step in gradually returning to your usual routine could be light dance-based workouts like Zumba. These help ease back into movement without the demands of high-intensity exercise.

By six weeks post-surgery, in a normal recovery process, over 60% of healing is usually complete. At this point, you may be able to return to your regular fitness routine, pending your surgeon’s approval.

Important tips to keep in mind

As a general rule: listen to your body. If any movement or exercise causes pain or discomfort, stop and rest. Your body is still recovering and needs time to regain strength. A good sports bra is key to your recovery. It’s essential for any physical activity after breast augmentation. Your sports bra should be comfortable and offer firm support to avoid injury or strain. Lastly, we strongly emphasize the importance of being properly guided by a qualified plastic surgeon throughout the entire postoperative journey.

Postoperative care: what should I know?

It’s crucial to remember that breast augmentation surgery is just one part of the process—the postoperative phase is equally important and often longer. Post-op care is what truly ensures full recovery after breast surgery.