How Soon Can You Exercise After Breast Surgery?

Exercising after a surgical procedure like breast surgery supports recovery by helping to rebuild mobility, ease stiffness, and strengthen the affected areas. However, returning to physical activities too soon can cause complications, so it’s important to follow a structured approach based on medical advice.

The recovery process after breast surgery is a critical period that requires careful attention to ensure optimal healing and minimise complications. Each type of breast surgery, whether it’s breast augmentation surgery or breast cancer surgery, has its own unique recovery needs. By understanding these differences and the importance of a structured post-surgery exercise plan, patients can navigate their recovery with greater confidence and effectiveness.

Types of breast surgery

Breast surgery encompasses various procedures, each with distinct goals and recovery processes. Breast augmentation surgery involves the use of implants to enhance the size and shape of the breasts. This procedure typically requires a recovery period focused on allowing the implants to settle and the tissues to heal. On the other hand, breast cancer surgery, which may include mastectomy, lumpectomy, or axillary dissection, involves the removal of cancerous tissue. The recovery from breast cancer surgery often focuses on healing the surgical site and restoring mobility in the affected area. Understanding the specific recovery needs of each type of surgery is crucial for a successful outcome.

Following a post-surgery exercise plan

Adhering to a post-surgery exercise plan is vital for a smooth and safe recovery. Exercise plays a key role in improving blood circulation, which helps reduce swelling and promotes healing. However, it’s important to avoid strenuous activities and follow a gradual exercise plan to prevent complications. A well-structured post-surgery exercise plan can help patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence. Working with a healthcare professional to develop a personalised plan ensures that the exercises are safe and effective, tailored to the individual’s specific needs and recovery progress.

The timeline for returning to exercise varies based on your surgery type - whether augmentation, reduction, or reconstruction. Generally, light movements can begin within a few days post-surgery, such as gentle arm stretches and deep breathing exercises. At this stage, incorporating light exercise such as walking is beneficial. Most patients should wait around six weeks before resuming more intense activities like weightlifting or aerobic exercises. After two weeks, moderate exercise like using stationary bikes on low settings is permissible. However, each individual heals differently, so follow your doctor’s specific recommendations to avoid setbacks. It is important to wait until a certain recovery period before reintroducing more strenuous exercise.

In the initial days following surgery, the focus should be on basic mobility. During this phase, avoid overextending the arm or shoulder on the side of the surgery to prevent strain on healing tissues. Most importantly, refrain from lifting anything heavy or engaging in any vigorous activities that involve the upper body. Gradually, you can increase your activity level as you experience less pain and greater mobility, with your healthcare provider guiding each step.

Immediate post-surgery recovery (0-2 weeks)

The immediate post-surgery recovery period is a critical time that requires rest, relaxation, and careful attention to the surgical site. During the first two weeks after breast surgery, it’s essential to avoid strenuous activities and focus on allowing the body to heal.

In the initial two weeks following breast surgery, prioritising rest and relaxation is crucial. This period is all about giving your body the time it needs to heal without the added stress of strenuous activities. Avoid heavy lifting, bending, and any form of strenuous exercise. Instead, focus on gentle stretching exercises and light activities such as walking. These light exercises can help maintain blood circulation without putting undue strain on the surgical site. Additionally, following a post-surgery exercise plan and attending follow-up appointments with your healthcare professional are essential steps to ensure optimal healing and results.

Recommended exercises after breast cancer surgery

Following breast surgery, doctors usually recommend exercises that focus on shoulder and arm flexibility, as well as gentle chest stretches, to prevent stiffness and aid recovery. It is important to avoid chest exercises during the initial recovery phase to prevent complications:

Shoulder and arm stretches: these exercises keep your upper body flexible and help maintain a full range of motion. For example, exercises like the “pendulum swing” -where you let your arm hang and move it in a circular motion - are gentle yet effective. It is also crucial to avoid upper body exercise during the initial healing period.

Deep breathing exercises: practising deep breathing helps relieve tension and promote circulation, which aids in reducing swelling and can speed up healing. Controlled breathing also encourages relaxation, which helps in dealing with post-surgical discomfort.

Progressive chest stretching: once cleared by your doctor, add chest stretches to your routine. Wall push-ups and overhead reaches are examples that gently stretch the chest and shoulder area. These movements help increase the range of motion and flexibility, essential for returning to daily activities.

Patients who have undergone breast reconstruction, particularly with implants, may need to focus more on exercises that target chest and shoulder mobility. Cancer Research UK offers guidance on exercises specific to post-reconstruction recovery. They recommend gradual shoulder rolls, arm lifts, and gentle stretches that cater to those with implants. These exercises help reduce post-operative stiffness and can make a significant difference in improving movement over time. It is important to incorporate stretching and movement to alleviate tightness and bruising in the chest wall.

Precautions and signs to monitor

After breast surgery, the primary goal is to avoid actions that could jeopardise healing. Follow these precautions to keep your recovery on track:

Avoid lifting heavy objects: lifting anything over a few kilograms strains the upper body and may increase swelling. For those with implants, this strain can lead to complications like implant displacement. Additionally, the weight of breast implants can cause discomfort during recovery.

Monitor for pain and discomfort: if any exercise causes sharp pain, swelling, or a pulling sensation, stop immediately and rest. Some discomfort is expected as you begin to move more, but anything beyond mild soreness should prompt a call to your healthcare provider.

Being vigilant about these signs allows you to adjust your activities based on how your body feels. Since everyone’s recovery is unique, consult your surgeon for specific recommendations, especially if you notice any swelling, redness, or unexpected discomfort.

Considerations for breast reconstruction patients

Individuals who have undergone breast reconstruction with implants often need additional recovery time before resuming full exercise routines. It is crucial to focus on breast augmentation recovery by following tips for a smooth healing process, such as wearing supportive garments and adhering to postoperative guidelines. Exercises designed to improve mobility in the shoulder and chest regions become even more critical. Cancer Research UK suggests exercises like shoulder stretches, elbow bends, and wall-climbing movements. These movements encourage the gradual stretching of the chest muscles and promote flexibility without putting undue pressure on the implants. It’s important to proceed with these exercises slowly, under medical supervision, and be mindful of any unusual sensations.

Surgery negligence and exercise recovery

In some cases, issues during breast surgery or post-operative care can lead to complications that extend your recovery time or limit your ability to exercise safely. Surgery negligence may occur if a healthcare provider fails to meet standard care requirements, potentially leading to unnecessary pain, improper healing, or prolonged discomfort. 

If a surgeon does not provide clear guidance on when and how to safely resume exercise, you might risk overexerting yourself and causing complications.

Regular check-ups are essential for tracking recovery and preventing issues like infection, scarring, or implant displacement. Neglecting these appointments can result in undiagnosed problems that make it difficult to engage in post-surgery exercises safely.

If a surgeon overlooks signs of complications, such as swelling or persistent pain, it could delay your recovery or result in long-term mobility limitations.

If you suspect negligence affected your ability to recover or exercise after surgery, seeking legal advice can help you understand your options for pursuing compensation. At Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors, we specialise in cases involving cosmetic surgery negligence and can guide you through the process.

Get in touch

If you’re experiencing complications with your recovery after breast surgery and suspect negligence, our dedicated team at Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors is here to assist you. With expertise in cosmetic surgery claims, we understand the intricacies involved and can guide you through the legal process to seek compensation. Let us handle the legal aspects so you can focus on healing.

Call us at 0808 256 1267 or fill out our online enquiry form to request a callback.