Exercise Tips and Timeline after Plastic Surgery

Resuming physical activity after surgery is an important part of the post-operative process. However, when and how you return to movement should always be based on the nature of your procedure and the guidance provided by Dr Carmen Munteanu.

While a lifestyle, including balanced movement and nutrition can be potentially beneficial after surgery, returning to exercise too early may interfere with your healing. To promote optimal recovery, exercise should be introduced gradually and in line with Dr Carmen’s recommendations.

Following your procedure, you will be given individualised instructions, including when to reintroduce certain activities. These recommendations are designed to support wound healing, manage swelling, and reduce the risk of complications.

Download Dr Carmen’s Guide to Cosmetic Surgery Recovery

Guide Cosmetic Surgery Recovery
Guide Cosmetic Surgery Recovery

Key Considerations

Every patient and procedure is different. While some people may feel ready to move around sooner, others may need more time. Several factors influence this timeline, including:

  • The specific surgery performed
  • Your mobility before surgery
  • Your general medical history
  • Any post-operative concerns that arise

Activity Timeline Overview

This general framework may apply to certain procedures, but always follow the personalised instructions provided by Dr Carmen.

Day 1–7

  • Light walking around your home may be suitable for some patients. This can support circulation and reduce the likelihood of developing clots.
  • Strenuous movements such as bending, lifting, or overhead reaching should be avoided unless otherwise advised.
  • Depending on your surgery, compression garments may be worn as directed.

Weeks 2–3

  • You may be advised to slowly increase your mobility. Tasks involving upper or lower body should still be limited unless cleared by Dr Carmen.
  • Activities that place pressure on your abdomen, chest, or incision sites are usually restricted during this phase.

Weeks 4–6

  • Subject to assessment during follow-up appointments, some forms of movement may be reintroduced.
  • Returning to exercise routines or physical work tasks should only occur once cleared by your surgeon.

Specific Precautions for Selected Procedures

  • Procedures Involving the Chest: Avoid upper body exertion, including lifting or reaching, for several weeks.
  • Abdominal Procedures: May require posture modification and support garments for an extended period.
  • Lower Body Surgery: Modifications to sitting, walking, and other daily activities may be recommended. Any friction to incisions should be avoided.

Activity & Exercise Resumption Guide After Surgery

While movement plays an important role in recovery, all activity should be resumed gradually and only under the guidance of your surgeon. Healing timelines can vary considerably between individuals based on factors such as the type of procedure, personal health status, and the complexity of surgery.

The following is a general guide only and should not replace individualised advice provided by Dr Carmen during your follow-up appointments.

Walking

  • When: Within a few days after surgery (often Day 1 or 2, if appropriate).
  • Why: Light walking supports circulation and helps reduce the risk of blood clots.
  • Note: Short distances indoors at first. Increase slowly as advised.

Hiking (Uneven Terrain, Inclines)

  • When: Around 4 to 6 weeks post-surgery, depending on the procedure.
  • Note: Steep inclines or uneven ground may place stress on the body; delay until fully mobile and cleared by Dr Carmen.

Weight Lifting / Resistance Training

  • When: Typically 6 to 8 weeks or longer.
  • Note: Upper body resistance training (especially involving chest, arms, or core) should be avoided until cleared. Lower body exercises may also need to wait, depending on the surgery area.

High-Impact Sports (Football, Basketball, Netball, etc.)

  • When: Around 8 to 12 weeks, or as advised.
  • Note: Contact sports or those requiring sudden movements carry a higher risk of strain or trauma to healing areas.

Pilates / Yoga

  • When: Generally 6 to 8 weeks post-operatively.
  • Note: Movements involving twisting, stretching, or abdominal engagement should only resume once cleared by Dr Carmen.

CrossFit / High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT)

  • When: Often 12 weeks or more, based on the procedure and your individual recovery.
  • Note: These activities place considerable demand on the body and must be approached cautiously.

Please Note

Every patient heals at their own pace. The above timeframes are indicative only and may not reflect your personal recovery journey. You must receive clearance from Dr Carmen or her clinical team before resuming any exercise or physical activity. Overexertion too soon after surgery can increase the risk of complications and delay your recovery.

For individualised advice, please contact Aesthetik Profile or discuss exercise progression during your follow-up appointment.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Resuming physical activity too soon may interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
  • Even if discomfort level is manageable, the tissues beneath the surface may still be recovering.
  • Always wait for approval from Dr Carmen before starting or resuming any structured exercise program.

Support During Recovery

Dr Carmen and the team are available to support you throughout your post-operative period. If you are unsure about any aspect of your recovery, including movement or return to daily routines, please contact the clinic for guidance.

During your consultation

Dr Carmen will talk to you about the dos and don’ts of your recovery during your consultation. It is important to follow the recommendations for post-operative care as this might make all the difference between optimal and suboptimal results.

We are always here to help

Remember to contact us any time you need to. We are there to encourage and support you in any way we can. It is our commitment to you that sets us apart from others. Our whole focus is on you your needs and ensuring your recovery is the best it can be.

See Dr Carmen’s Blogs on Exercising after Specific Procedures